28 Naugus Ave

For four decades, Ed and Frances Nilsson have experimented with active and passive solar systems and other hybrid technologies. Built in 1982, their 2500 square foot, 3-bedroom house features passive solar to naturally warm their residence in winter months. Other features included electrified heating and cooling as well as one of the first rooftop solar installations in town.

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In 2019, older and less efficient solar panels on the house were replaced with a more efficient 7kW photovoltaic system with 345-watt panels. In the same year, an upgraded low-temperature heat pump was also installed.  

A 1700 square foot accessory structure was constructed next to the house in 1986 which features off-peak electric thermal storage heating. In use for more than 50 years in Europe where electricity costs are notably higher, electricity is converted to heat and stored in special high thermal mass ceramic bricks within a well-insulated radiator cabinet. The magnesite bricks are used for their special ability to store immense quantities of heat. During the day the stored heat is released as needed into the home.  At night, the heat charge is topped off, ready to meet the heating requirements of the next day. To supplement this heat source as well as providing cool air during the summer, a single-zone ductless heat pump system was installed in 2019.