SUSTAINABILITY

The Franklin's 2010 renovation has transformed a run-of-the-mill 50s-era building into an energy-efficient example of best practices in sustainability. Funded in part through American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the building's renovation included the construction of a new HVAC system that features two new boilers, a new water cooler, and new heating and cooling consoles in each unit. Another HVAC system-this one uses geothermal energy-heats and cools the common spaces, the offices, and the lobby. The renovation also included new windows, a redesigned community room, a new laundry room, and a new mailroom.

Sustainable features at the Franklin include:

• High-efficiency building systems, including gas hot water heaters + boiler.
• HVAC system does not use ozone-depleting coolants such as freon.
• Lobby, common spaces, and office spaces use geothermal energy to heat and cool. By accessing water stored underground in a 1,000 foot deep standing water column, our geothermal system brings the relatively constant temperature of the earth (55-70°F) to the Franklin's common spaces

• In 2012 a 51.2kW Solar Electric System was installed on the roof.
• The yearly impact of generating this clean energy is the environmental equivalent of growing 1,215 trees for 10 years, or not driving a car 109,000 miles.

• Because this building has been renovated, the energy used to obtain construction materials and build the original structure is conserved. This concept is called embodied energy.
• Paint, sealants, caulks, adhesives, etc were all chosen for their minimal off-gassing of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
• Earth-friendly cleaning products used in all common areas.

• Energy-efficient building lighting, including compact-fluorescent light bulbs used throughout common spaces.
• Energy-Star air-conditioning, kitchen and laundry room appliances.

• Every unit comes with Niagara flapperless toilets that conserve water while still offering a powerful flush.
• Water-conserving plumbing fixtures used throughout building.

• Building-wide recycling, including special programs for fluorescent bulbs and batteries.