Panasonics Eco Navi house in Osaka, Japan is just a concept model for now, but it may soon be the norm for Japanese residences (and later in the U.S.). The entire home is remarkably more efficient than the average dwelling: 70 percent lower emissions and 30 percent more water savings. But Eco Navi is more than just numbers. Its a design-lovers dream.
No design in the Eco Navi house isnt without a specific function. Its outfitted with your everyday household appliances such as refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines and lights. The difference is that each of these appliances are significantly more efficient than most on the market today.
Eco Navi has a sensor that detects human presence. It uses this to direct heat and AC so that no energy is wasted on heating and cooling empty spaces and rooms. Additionally, it is outfitted with large windows to allow for direct sunlight in order to capture adequate lighting and store heat.
The energy used in the Eco Navi home is generated from solar panels and Panasonics revolutionary fuel cell system, which harnesses hydrogen and oxygen for power.
Eco Navis IH stovetop generates very little heat. In fact, there is no direct fire, which makes for a cooler cooking environment, leading to less energy used to power the AC. Additionally, its ventilation hood is linked to the stovetop and can detect fan speed and when it should be turned on and off.
Most toilets in Japan have heated seats (pretty sophisticated!). In order to keep the toilet seat warm, energy is used 24/7. Eco Navis toilet is different as it only powers on when it detects your presence. It raises the heat to the average comfortable temperature is just six seconds.
Doing laundry in Eco Navi is a cinch. The special washing machine by Panasonic detects the amount of dirt and material in clothes and adjusts its settings accordingly. After all, you wouldnt wash baby clothes on the same setting as a load of towels. The savings add up quickly in this room: Just one week of laundry with the Eco Navi washer saves a whopping 9.24 gallons of water in just one week.
Source: http://bit.ly/sEM8k7
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