Cohousing-L Mailing List: Re: ceiling heights (was RE: [C-L]_ very small/ compact housing)

[Sharon Villines (sharon]

On Feb 4, 2006, at 12:52 PM, Fleck wrote:

> Here's a question: Everyone loves those high ceilings. But about 
> heating all
> that extra space? Even a ceiling fan costs money, requires maintenance 
> and
> uses more energy.

The question is what is extra? Personally I would prefer less floor 
space and higher ceilings -- that increased square footage increases 
HVAC costs as well.

How many months of the year are you heating? Location makes a 
difference. In the summer, the high ceilings are cooler and allow more 
ventilation so air conditioning is also a factor.

With excellent insulation this is less of an issue and in two story 
houses it becomes even less of an issue.

Sharon
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Sharon Villines
Takoma Village Cohousing, Washington DC
http://www.takomavillage.org