Quote:
Originally Posted by BraeField
I discovered my house (Northeast Raleigh, NC) built in 2003 does NOT have a vapor barrier; my electric bill without using Heat/Air Condition is roughly $80-$100, but it quickly climbed to $400 during the winter months. I'm replacing my builder provided HVAC system; which was only good for 8-10 years. I looking at a Trane system.
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Don't confuse a vapor barrier and house wrap. The vapor barrier is typically poly (or faced insulation) that is adjacent to the sheet rock in your wall cavity.
A house wrap, as talked about in this thread, is a weather resistant barrier primarily designed to protect the sheathing/wall from any water that penetrates the siding (i.e. hardiplank). It does allow water vapor to pass so that trapped moisture can escape.
I assume you have a vapor barrier but no house wrap?
An air-air heat pump in the coldest winter months here can use considerable electricity. You might consider an energy audit before replacing your HVAC to determine the best next step.
Frank
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