BPI BuildingSciencePrinciples_Dec6.pdfff

This is a very useful lecture on building performance ssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss

1. BUILDING SCIENCE PRINCIPLES
2023

2. The Building Performance Association thanks the following individuals and organizations
who contributed their expertise and insight to develop this training:
Xavier Walter, Building Performance Association
Katie Miller, Building Performance Association
Larry Zarker, Building Performance Institute
Richard Faesy, Energy Futures Group
Kathleen Miao, Energy Futures Group
Gabrielle Stebbins, Energy Futures Group
Cory Chovanec, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
Funding in part from the Department of Energy (DOE) Better Building Workforce Accelerator
program.
2
Acknowledgments

3. Course Overview
Module 1: Building Science Basics
•Energy Basics
•Building Assessment
Module 2: Building Systems and Equipment
•HVAC Systems
•Air Leakage and Sealing
Module 3: Energy Assessments
•Health & Safety
•Field Evaluation
Module 4: Career Pathways
•Home Performance Contracting
•Industry Opportunities
3
Every topic in this course is
designed to help you
understand what makes a
home comfortable, safe,
and efficient.

4. Schedule
4
Welcome & Introduction15 mins
Module 11 hour, 45 mins
15-minute break
Module 2 1 hour, 15 mins
Module 31 hour
Lunch –1 hour
Module 3 (cont.)1 hour
15-minute break
Module 4 1 hour, 15 mins

5. 5
Recognize the importance of “whole-building
approach” to energy efficiency.
Describe how building systems and equipment
affect energy use.
Recognize how building science applies to
home performance, occupant health, safety,
and comfort.
Be able to identify market opportunities and
understand how energy efficiency applies to
you.
Feel prepared to take the BPI Building Science
Principles example
Upon completion of
this class, you will
be able to:

6. Building Performance
Institute
BPI, now in its 29th year, sets national standards for
improving comfort and energy efficiency and for
creating and maintaining safe and healthy home
environments. From these standards, BPI develops
professional certifications for home performance
contractors to ensure quality service and workmanship.
BPI is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
6

7. BSP page reference from guide
in the bottom left-hand corner
TEXTBOOK
Building Science
Principles (BSP)
Reference Guide
7
1

8. Module 1: Building
Science Basics
Topics covered:
•House as a system
•Construction of a home
•Thermodynamics
•Temperature and comfort
•Building envelope
8

9. Credit EPA
Home
Performance
We use the“whole-
house”approachto
improvethecomfort and
health of occupants
while optimizing the
safety, efficiency, and
durability of the building.
9

10. Principle
Conditions
Affecting Home
Performance
10
Interactingsystems
Heating/cooling
Exhaustfans
Ductwork
Windows/doors
Occupants
Walls, floors, ceiling
9
FLOW
Heat
MoistureAir

11. Chemistry
Physics
Thermodynamics
Holistic,“whole-house” approach through
comprehensivediagnosticsandmeasurement11
Sound Building
Science
11
Healthy, Comfortable,
Energy Efficient

12. InteractiveRelationships
Building
Environment
Occupants
Mechanicals
House as a
System
12
13

13. Construction Basics
13

14. Characteristics
of a Home
14

15. Illustration from U.S. EPAPhoto by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 24441
Attics
The space nobody thinks about yet
plays the largest role in lost energy.
15
20

16. Photos courtesy of Building America Solution Center
Kneewalls
16
21

17. Define the Boundary
Options for the air
boundary between inside
and outside spaces
17

18. *Photos courtesy of Building America Solution Center
Proper Sealing
When the boxes around a
home are off-set, they
require proper sealing and
insulating.
18

19. Air movement degrades
insulation effectivenessFibrous insulation behaves as a
filter for air flow
*Photos courtesy of Cory Chovanec, NREL
Effective Air Barriers Required for Proper Insulation
17

20. Cathedral:Hasthe same
pitch astheroof
Vaulted:DOES NOT
havethesamepitch
as theroof
Cathedral
Vaulted
Ceiling Types
20
22

21. Credit: THP
Foundations
21
25
BasementCrawlspaceSlab on Grade

22. Attic Framing
Components
Credit: Building Performance Institute
Studs
26
22
Joists
Rafters

23. Basics of Energy
23Photo by Cory Chovanec, NREL

24. Thermodynamics
1stLaw of Thermodynamics: Energy is
neither created nor destroyed!
Energy can:
•Move from place to place
•Change forms or states
(gas, liquid, or solid)
When energy changes forms, the
temperature doesn’t change, but energy is
either released or absorbed (latent heat).
24
32

25. 2nd Law of
Thermodynamics
Energy flows naturally from high
concentrations to low concentrations
25
Hot
High
Cold
Low
33

26. Different Types
of Energy
Kinetic energy is motion or transition
•Burning the wood creates heat and work
•Water turning a turbine to create electricity
•Food becomes heat and motion in a body
•Gasoline burns creating pressure to turn the crankshaft
35
25
Potential energy is locked or stored
oA chord of firewood
oThe water behind a dam
oFood is eaten by people/animals
oGasoline

27. DryBulb:AmbientAir
Temp
WetBulb:Tempofwater-
saturatedair
Two parameters needed
tofindrelative humidity
*Photo courtesy of Trutechtools.com *Photo courtesy of weather.gov
Temperature
Measurements
27
35

28. Sensible and
Latent Heat
Sensible heat: The amount of energy
added or removed that causes a change in
temperature (thermometer)
Latent heat: The amount of energy
released or absorbed when changing form
(when ice melts or water boils)
36
27

29. Delta “∆T”Delta=“∆” It’sGreek.
It isthe changeordifferencebetweentwo
areas.
If the inside temperatureis68degrees
and theoutsidetemperature is58
degrees,the ∆T is10 degrees. The
greaterthedifference,thefastertheheat
moves fromhot tocold.
29
37

30. British Thermal Unit (BTU)
The amount of heat required to
raise one pound of water one
degree.
Also, the approximate amount of heat
contained in one wooden match.
30
38

31. Fuel Types for
Home Heating
Natural Gas: Therms/centum
cubic feet
Electricity: Kilowatt hour
Propane: Gallons
Fuel Oil: Gallons
Wood: Chords
31
38 Added cost for delivered fuels

32. Units of Energy
British Thermal Unit (BTU):One pound of
water by one degree Fahrenheit
Kilowatt Hour (kWh):The amount of energy it
takes to burn a 100-watt light bulb for 10 hours
Various Fuel Types: (approximate)
1 kWh = 3,412 BTUs
1 Gallon #2 Fuel Oil = 139,000 BTUs
1 Therm of Natural Gas = 100,000 BTUs
If we know a house needs X number of BTUs,
we can figure out how much it costs to heat/cool
32
38

33. 1 Kilowatt =
3,412 BTUs per
hour
Electric baseboard heating is 100% efficient
A house that needs a million BTUs/hour will use 294
kilowatts
Heat pump technology can exceed 300%
The same house uses 98 kilowatts
More BTUs per unit of energy
Kilowatts X Cost of Energy
Commodity costs change depending on time and place
33
38

34. How and Why Heat Moves
34Graphic from Building America Solution Center

35. How Does Heat Move
Heat travels from high temperature
to low temperature using three
primary mechanisms:
Conduction
Convection
Radiation
35
39

36. Heat Conduction
The transfer of energy through
matter from particle to particle
36
39

37. Conductivity of Building
Materials
A material’s thermal conductivity
describes how much heat in BTU flows
through a 1-foot-thick by a 1-foot-square
slab of that material each hour when there
is a 1-degree Fahrenheit temperature
difference between the slab’s two
surfaces.
Measured by R-value and U-value
37
39
11’ thick

38. Heat Convection
The transfer of heat energy
in a gas or liquid by
movement of currents
38
40

39. Radiation
Electromagnetic waves directly transport energy
through space.
Example: Sunlight radiates through space to our
planet without the aid of fluids or solids.
The energy travels through nothingness!
It must be a “line of sight.” Nothing can be between
two objects for radiation to heat a surface.
Think of being in the sun or being in the shade.
39
41

40. Energy moves in and
out of buildings
through:
Conduction
Radiation
Convection
40

41. The Comfort Factor
Comfort is not always what the
thermostat is set to …
There are several factors:
Air temperature
Mean radiant temperature
Air movement
Relative humidity
41
Human Thermal Comfort: “State of mind that expresses satisfaction with the
surrounding environment.” Clothing, activity level, and drafts impact this.

42. Comfort Example
Convective loops
consistently circulate warm
and cool air.
Convection happens inside
the home in summer and
winter.
42
42

43. Temperature
Temperature is a measure of
the average kinetic energy of
the particles in a sample of
matter, expressed in terms of
units or degrees.
43
43

44. Credit: EfficientWindowCoverings.org
Mean Radiant
Temperature (MRT)
Average of all surfaces
Window: 40 degrees
Ceiling: 68 degrees
Floor: 65 degrees
Thermostat says 68 degrees
MRT = 58 degrees
44
43

45. Convective and
Conductive Heat
Loss
Conductive Heat Loss
The measurement of heat loss is the
amount of energy expended to heat the
building. Heat loss can be calculated from
building envelope properties.
Convective Heat Loss
Due to air exchange between the interior
and exterior consisting primarily of air
leakage and ventilation, convective heat
loss is an important part of both the heating
and cooling load.
BTUs flowing through the building shell.
45
44

46. Seasonal Heat Flow
Winter: Warm air rises, and
heat conducts up
Summer: Cool air drops and
heat conducts down
The more dramatic the
differences in air density, the
faster heat moves.
46
44

47. Different Parts of a Home
Move Energy Faster Than
Others
Floors and foundations
Walls
Roofs and ceilings
Windows and doors
Primary energy movement is caused by
conduction and convection.
47
46

48. Solar Heat Gain
Sun radiates through windows onto
the roof, walls, and the area around
the home.
Heat conducts through the roof into
the attic then moves towards the
attic floor and into the living space.
Hot upstairs, cold downstairs in the
summertime
48
48

49. Internal Heat Gains
Lighting
Appliances
Occupants (people and pets)
Cooking
Mechanical equipment
49
48

50. Graphic Credit: U.S. Department of Energy, Weatherization Standardized Curricula
Control Heat Flow With
Insulation
Heat transfer is driven by the
temperature difference between
indoors and outdoors.
A building’s thermal resistance
determines how much heat transmits
through the shell.
50
49

51. The Building Envelope
Defines the pressure and
thermal boundary between
inside and outside
51Photo from Building America Solution Center

52. Building Envelope
Components
A building envelope is the separation
between the interior and the exterior
environments of a building. It serves as the
outer shell to protect the indoor environment
and facilitate its climate control.
Components include:
Roof
Exterior walls/siding
Windows/doors
Foundation/slab
53Photo courtesy of Building America Solution Center
51

53. Graphic Credit: Credit: U.S. Department of Energy, WeatherizationStandardized Curricula
Boundaries
Thermal barriers and boundaries
separate conditioned from unconditioned
spaces within the building envelope.
Air Barriers and Pressure
Boundaries
The portion of the home that separates
the conditioned air (inside) from the
unconditioned air (outside)
Both should be in the same location and
aligned properly.
53
52

54. Defining the Boundary
Slow convective and slow conductive
energy loss/gain
Define the “line” between inside and
outside
Identify conditioned vs. unconditioned
spaces
Look for offset boxes, like additions
That boundary must be airtight and have
the right amount of insulation
54
53
Overview of House Structure

55. Defining Thermal &
Air Boundaries
Air leakage passes into and out of buildings
through penetrations in the building shell’s
interior and exterior surface.
At every place on/in the building shell, an
effective air barrier must be present and be
in contact with the thermal barrier.
57

56. Graphic Credit: Credit: U.S. Department of Energy, WeatherizationStandardized Curricula
Air Barriers
Air barriers should surround the
conditioned space, where the insulation
and air barrier are located
Insulation should be in the attic, walls,
and on the floor
57

57. Credit: BASC
Boundary Must-Haves
•Insulation and an air barrier
•Semi conditioned spaces
•Where is inside
•Where is outside
58

58. The Thermal
Boundary is
Comprised of Some
Type of Insulation
Insulation slows heat transmission in two
important ways:
1.By forcing the heat to conduct through the
air or some other gas; gases are generally
poor heat conductors
2.By reducing heat radiation and air
convection within cavities where insulation
is installed
Most insulation does not stop airflow!
58
54
Some older homes lack
insulation and a clearly
defined thermal boundary.

59. Credit: BASC
Follow The Framing Assembly Wherever It Goes
59
51

60. Photo from Building America Solution Center
Common Home Performance Materials
60

61. Blown Fiberglass
Complete blanket
Thick and fluffy
Must air seal first
Performance is affected by gaps
and voids, compression, and poor
contact.
61Photo from of Cory Chovanec, NREL.
54

62. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 28651Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 24441
The Cellulose Option
Bothers bugs, squirrels, and pests
Cellulose can be densely packed at
minimum 3.5 lbs. per foot to become an air
barrier.
Cellulose is treated with boric acid to
become fire retardant.
62
55
Dense-Packed Sidewall Insulation

63. Fiberglass for
the Attic Flat
Performance affected by:
•Gaps and voids
•Compression
•Poor contact
63
56
Photo courtesy of Total Home Performance

64. Kraft Faced Insulation
“Paper to the people”
The vapor barrier on insulation should be
placed on the warm side of the building
assembly.
Vapor Barrier: Stops moisture movement
Vapor Retarder: Slows moisture movement
Carefully consider each condition before the
installation of a vapor barrier. Climate and
construction can vary VDR placement.
64
56

65. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Insulation Can Work
Designed to slow conductive heat
loss by creating air pockets that
slow heat movement
Fiberglass does not stop airflow
65
57

66. Credit XW/ Building Performance Institute
Insulation Performance
Wet, damaged, or degraded insulation
does not maintain R-value.
Dark/black spots on insulation signify
airflow.
Performance affected by:
•Gaps and voids
•Compression
•Poor contact
66
58

67. Thermal Bridging
Area in an assembly where one
component can move heat faster than
another
Cures
•Continuous insulation
•Better framing techniques
•Thermal house wrap
67
59

68. White Foam (credit –R. Faesy)Blue Foam (credit –BASC)Polystyrene (credit Building Performance Institute)Polyiso (credit Building Performance Institute)
Foam Board
EPS –Expanded Polystyrene (pink and
blue board)
XPS –Extruded Polystyrene
(foundations, etc.)
Polyisocyanurate (foil-backed, etc.)
•Draft block chases
•Insulate panels
•Insulate attic decking 2 in.
•Encapsulate vertical walls
•Back knee walls
•Behind siding
•Insulate band joist
68
59

69. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Spray Foam
Average of R7 per inch
Moisture barrier
Air barrier
Open cell
Closed cell
Ensure adequate ignition
barrier as required per code
Thermal barrier
69
60

70. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Radiant Barrier
Directs radiant heat
Can be used in attic spaces
Line-of-sight heat transfer only,
cannot help with convective or
conductive heat
70
62

71. Heat Flow and Loss
71

72. R-value
Determined in a laboratory under
ideal conditions. The R-value of the
insulation, as installed, can be
greatly reduced due to:
•Poor workmanship
•Wind washing
•Dust/debris collecting (acts like a filter)
•Moisture from condensation or leaks
(roof, plumbing, a/c condensate line, etc.)
•Settling or compaction
72
62
Insulation Types
N=NoneICY= IcyeneCE=Cellulose
FG = Fiberglass BattRF=Rigid Foam BoardP=Spray Polyurethane
BFG=Blown FGCR=Cross BattBFG=Rock/Mineral
Wool
Quality
Good= No Gaps or Compression
Fair = > 2.5% Gaps
Poor=> 5% Gaps

73. R-value vs. U-valueInsulation’s ability to slow heat flow
ismeasured by R-value.
“R” stands for thermal resistance.
U-value is a measurement of how fast heat will
flowthrough a square foot of building cross-
section experiencing a temperature difference
of 1°F.
R = 1/U and U = 1/R
73
62

74. Credit: Building Performance Institute
R-value Per Inch
74
63

75. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Installation Quality
of Insulation
75
65

76. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Framing Changes
Replace 2x4x16 o.c. with 2x6x24
o.c.
Use less framing when appropriate
Ensure completely insulated cavities
(Insulation must contact all 6 sides)
76
67

77. R-value of an Assembly
Add the component’s individual R-
value for an overall R-value
Quality installation free of defects
Environment
Material components
77
68

78. U Factor –The entire window
Credit: Building Performance Institute
Window Label
How fast heat moves through
Amount of visible light
How well radiant heat is blocked
78
69

79. Window Ratings
National Fenestration Rating Council
(NFRC) is a non-profit organization that
provides fair, accurate, and credible energy
performance ratings for windows and doors.
The best way to compare energy-efficient
windows and patio doors is to look at their
NFRC labels.
79

80. Average Area
R-value
80
70
U= 0.017
Stairs R1Attic R35
12 sq. ft.1000 sq. ft.

81. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Thermal Imaging
Can help identify:
•Missing insulation
•Airflow
•Moisture problems
81
72

82. Air Movement
Recognizing how air moves throughout a home will help you understand how to
make homes more comfortable and efficient.
82Photo by Cory Chovanec, NREL
26

83. Source:U.S.DepartmentofEnergy
What Is Responsible For
The Most Air Loss?
83
Plumbing
penetrations
13%
Windows
10%
Doors
11%
Fans & Vents
4%
Fireplace
14%
Floors, Walls,
Ceiling
31%
Ducts
15%
Eletric Outlets
2%

84. Air Movement Within Homes
Negative Pressure
Air pressure that is lower in one zone as
compared to another zone
Positive Pressure
Air pressure that is higher in one zone as
compared to another zone
WRT
“With Reference To” comparing one zone
to another
∆P
Pressure difference between two zones
CFM (cubic feet per minute)
Measurement in CFM is used to determine
how many cubic feet of air move in or out
of a house every minute
87
82

85. Positive/Negative
Pressure
Air pressure, airflow, and the size of air
leaks are directly related to each other.
A pressure difference on opposite sides of a
hole causes an increase in airflow through
the hole.
Bigger holes pass more air at the same
pressure than smaller ones.
88
84
Credit: Building Performance Institute
Higher
Pressure
Lower
Pressure

86. Air Movement Within Homes
Exfiltrationis air leakage leaving the
building when the air pressure inside is
higher than the air pressure outside.
Infiltrationis air leakage entering a
building when the air pressure inside is
lower than the air pressure outside.
Credit: Building Performance Institute
ExfiltrationInfiltration
85
89

87. Air Changes Per Hour
ACH50
Unintentional leakage of air is the exchange rate
CFM = cubic feet per minute (blower door)
60 = minutes/one hour
Volume = cubic feet of interior space
ACH = CFM x 60/ Volume
So, if we have:
67cfm x 60/ 8,000cuft = 4,020 / 8,000 =
0.5 air changes per hour, or HALF the home’s air
90Graphic Credit: Credit: U.S. Department of Energy, WeatherizationStandardized Curricula
86

88. Graphic Credit: U.S. Department of Energy, WeatherizationStandardized Curricula
Stack Effect
Cooler air is denser than warmer air, and
this density difference creates a
pressure that causes air to move.
The air inside a home tends to stratify in
layers due to density differences. Hot air
rises to the top and cooler air falls to the
bottom.
88
87

89. Chimneys
A chimney relies on negative
pressure to raise exhaust
gasses from the home.
89
87

90. 90
87

91. Wind Effect
Wind blowing against a wall creates an
area of high pressure, driving outdoor air
into the windward side of the home.
The leeward (downwind) side of the
house has an area of reduced pressure.
91Photo Courtesy Building America Solution Center
89

92. Types of Construction
Balloon Framing
Very old homes
Walls before floors
Exterior walls weren’t usually
insulated
Open perimeter chases from top to
bottom
92
93
Platform Framing
Modern homes
2x4 or 2x6 construction
Top plates

93. Credit: Building Performance Institute
PlatformBalloon
93
93

94. Credit: https://www.greentrainingusa.com/
Balloon Framed
Homes
94
94

95. BREAK
Return in 15 minutes

96. Module 2: Building
Systems and
Equipment
Topics covered:
•HVAC systems
•Air leakage
•Air sealing
96GraphicCredit: U.S. Department of Energy, WeatherizationStandardized Curricula

97. Mechanical
Ventilation –
Controllable and
Intentional
Old houses were typically ventilated by
drafts, leakage, infiltration, exfiltration, etc.
The problem is that they ventilate most during
the most extreme weather… very cold windy
days or very hot humid days
Higher Delta P and Delta T
New houses may need ventilation systems
installed since they are so air-tight
97
89

98. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Mechanical Ventilation
Provides Fresh Air To…
Remove odors
Remove or dilute contaminants like VOCs from
building products
Removes moisture to prevent mold, mildew, and
pest issues
Provide fresh air and remove stale air
Increase airflow to offset the airflow standards
98
89

99. Graphic courtesy Building America Solution Center
Attic Venting
Gravity-driven airflow in attic
spaces
Hot air is less dense than cooler air,
and therefore rises
Soffit, ridge, gable venting, forced
exhaust
99
90

100. Convective Loop
Quality of installation is paramount
Increasing the chances of
condensation
100
ColdHot
89

101. 101
92

102. Photo from Building America Solution Center
Air Sealing Materials
Rigid insulation
Liquid foam 1 and 2 part
Cross-linked polyethylene paper
(Tyvek®)
Dense pack cellulose
Caulk (small areas less than 3/8 in.)
102
92

103. Credit: Building Performance Institute
CondenserFurnace
HVACR
Systems
103
Space Heating and
Cooling
Unit + Distribution +
Controls = System
152

104. Parts of a Furnace
A.Blower motor
B.Supply
C.Return
D.Exhaust
E.Heat exchanger
F.Ignition
G.Burner
104
154
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A
G
C
E
B
D
F

105. Parts of a Boiler
Burner
Expansion tank
Circulator pump
Heat exchanger
Vent
Damper
Pressure relief
105
154
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106. Credit: Building Performance InstituteFrom Building America Solution Center
Heat Pump
•Opposite of air conditioner
•Has drain tubes
•Gas backup or electric backup
•Extracts heat from warmer
temperatures below the frost line or
from the air
106
155

107. Credit: BASCCredit: Building Performance Institute
Geothermal
107
156

108. Credit: Xavier WalterCredit: Building Performance Institute
Oil Tank
Residential Fuel Types
Natural gas (methane)
Propane gas (LP or LPG)
Fuel oil (#2, #4, and #6)
Electricity
•Resistance heating (strips)
•Heat pump (air cooled, water cooled,
geothermal or ground-source, direct x-
change)
Wood
108
157

109. Need Credit/Oil Truck
Fuel Oil
Delivered fuels have added
transportation costs
109
157
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110. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Propane and Propane
Accessories
Easy to transport
Often found in remote home locations
like cabins
Mostly produced in the USA
3% -4% of the nation’s fuel use
Produces lower levels of CO
110
158

111. Natural Gas
111
One out of three homes
inspected has one or
more gas leaks!
158
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112. Electric Heat
Expensive in cold climates
Resistance heat like toaster
Often used as a back-up
Electric costs more than gas
112
159
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113. Understanding
The Energy Grid
Generation
Transmission
Use
113
159

114. Wood Stoves/Fireplaces
Ensure tight-fitting doors
Flue closed while not in use
Chimney balloons for inoperable
chimneys
Chimney caps ensure a tight seal
No blower
Door with hot coals!
114
159
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115. Fuel Cost
Comparison
115
Remember: BTUs per
therm or kilowatt
159

116. Supply and
Return
116
159
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117. Multiple Stage Heating
Stage burners come on
sequentially as the demand for
heat rises
Multi-stage motors available for
heat pumps and AC units
117
159
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118. Dehumidification
Reducing air flow in a home can
cause moisture issues
118Credit Total Home Performance
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119. Drafting Units
Natural Draft
Uses negative pressure to move
combustion gasses up the flue
Induced Draft
Uses a fan to move gasses out
either at the flue or on the unit
before or after the burner
119
161
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120. Intake
Exhaust
Photos from Building America Solution Center
Condensing
Furnace/Sealed
Combustion
120
162

121. Common Venting
If you remove an atmospherically
vented heater and switch to
sealed combustion, you ORPHAN
the hot water heater.
Orphaned DHW systems must
have a chimney liner installed, or
changed to power vented units to
avoid CAZ failure.
185
162
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122. Credit: Mountaineer Inspections WV
Traditional Furnace
122
162
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123. Sealed Combustion
The second combustion chamber
removes heat and water vapor
from the exhaust.
123
162
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124. High Efficiency
Units
124
162
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125. Insert BPI
Annual Fuel Utilization
Efficiency (AFUE)
Applies to furnaces and boilers
Input = 100,000 Btus
Output = 80,000 Btus
AFUE = 80%
20% of the heat generated goes up a
chimney
Heat pumps are rated on Heating
Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF)
125
163

126. The Importance of Air Sealing
126©Copyright 2023, Carson Dunlopwww.carsondunlop.comAll rights reserved

127. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 29591
Air Sealing is #1 Priority
Establishing a solid pressure boundary is one of the most important aspects of home performance.
Heating and cooling dollars escape through the building envelope both high and low.
Common gun foam is one of the best tools to stop unwanted air infiltration or exfiltration.
Has a high return on investment.
Most common measure on many home retrofits.
127
95

128. Opportunities
for Air Sealing
Typical locations…
Top plates, nailers, wall joints
Wire and pipe penetrations
Electrical boxes, junctions, and runs
Soffits at cabinets and hallways
Knee walls, split walls, and slopes
Open chases
Hatches and access holes
128
95

129. Photo courtesy Building America Solutions Center
Where Air Gets
In and Out
129
96

130. Photo by Cory Chovanec, NRELAttic wall top plate with insulation on and around. (photo by Cory Chovanec, NREL)
Top Plates Under
Insulation
Equal to the R-value of the
surrounding insulation
130
97

131. WirePenetrations
Photos by Cory Chovanec, NREL
Open Chases =
Thermal Bypasses
131
98

132. Common Construction Resulting in Air Leaks
132Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 24327

133. Credit: TamTech.com
Seal the Access
Tight
133
Must be greater than R15
and should match the
insulation level in the attic
Use 2 in. foamboard,
prefabricated covers, and
batt insulation
Be sure to weatherstrip the
door and make sure it is
airtight99

134. Photos by Cory Chovanec, NREL
Dropped Soffits
134
Invisible horizontal and
vertical cavities that give
convection and air leakage
a way to move heat around
insulation at the building’s
thermal boundary
99

135. SEAL HERE!
Seal High | Seal Low | Stop Air
Registers
Switches
Chase
Sill plate
Soffit
Photo by Cory Chovanec, NRELPhoto from Building America Solution Center
99

136. Sky Lights and
House Fans
Follow the conditioned
boundary to its end
136
99

137. Photo by Cory Chovanec, NREL
Define the Air Boundary
Use silicone fire block or fire
rated caulk around all chimney
and exhaust pipes
137
100

138. Photo courtesy of Building America Solution Center
Wall Partitions
Wall partitions have gaps on either
side of the top stud
Use caulk or gun foam to ensure air
boundary
138
100

139. Photos by Cory Chovanec, NREL
Can Lights, High Hats,
Recessed
Ensure newly installed lights
are airtight and rated to be in
contact with insulation
Do not insulate over any non-
insulation contact rated lights
because they may fail or set
fire
139
102

140. Huge Leaks to
The Outside
140Credit: Building Performance Institute
103

141. Always install
properventing
Photo courtesy of Building America Solution Center
Airflow Degrades
Insulation
141
105

142. Credit: BASC142
105

143. Inoroutofthe envelope?
Vented
CrawlspaceEnclosed
Crawlspace
Air Seal Crawlspace/Basement
143
108

144. Photos courtesy of Total Home Performance, MD
Before After
Crawlspaces
144

145. Sealing Air Leaks
Air leaks between the outside and
living space must be sealed first as
part of the work scope.
Look for proper air boundaries in
living spaces above garages or
crawlspaces.
The line must be sealed and
insulated.
Look at the home as a series of
conditioned boxes to determine
exposed walls.
145
109

146. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 23797
Dense Packing
Filling a wall cavity with
insulation packed to a certain
density to slow air movement
146
109

147. Photo courtesy of Building America Solution Center
Fill Cavities With
Insulation
Ensure a complete fill
147
109

148. Photo courtesy Total Home Performance
Spray Foam
Higher R-value, complete air
sealing, performs better
Open cell and closed cell
148
110

149. AtticDuctworkDuct Sealing
Credit: Building Performance Institute
Leaky Ducts Outside
149
111

150. Photo Courtesy of Building America Solution Center
Vent Bath Fan
Outdoors
150
Must use insulated
duct per code
112

151. Module 3: Energy
Assessments
Topics covered:
•Air leakage testing
•Moisture
•Indoor air quality
•Ventilation
•Windows
•Health and safety
151Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 24377

152. Blower Door Testing
Terminology:
Blower Door
Frame & Panel
Fan
Manometer
Tubing
Taps
Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 28713Photo by Werner Slocum, NREL 14489 & 144493
114
132
Tees
CFM
CFMn
CFM50
Inches of Water
Column
Pascals (Pa)

153. Manufacturers
Blower door manufacturers in the United
States provide tools, knowledge, and
support for the home performance
industry.
153
114

154. Graphic Credit: U.S. Department of Energy, WeatherizationStandardized Curricula
How a Blower Door
Works
Pressurize or depressurize the home to
subtract or add 50 pascals with
reference to the outdoors
250 Pascals = 1 inch in the water column
154
114

155. STOP Before You
Start!
Check for potentially hazardous
contaminants
Asbestos: vermiculite insulation, boiler, furnace,
or pipe insulation
Displace tile in drop ceiling
Fireplaces: hot ashes, open damper, ash-filled
firebox
Mold and/or mildew
Structural Issues: rotten or damaged framing,
sheathing, drywall
155
115
Explain to your client that the
home may warm up or cool
down depending on the outside
temperature. Secure pets and
small children.
DO NO HARM!

156. Vermiculite suspected under layer of fiberglass, always check attic before blower door test (Photo by Cory Chovanec, NREL)
Vermiculite
156
115

157. Asbestos
Can’t run a blower door
Asbestos in the basement
A blower door test should not be
conducted
157Credit: Building Performance Institute
115

158. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 29421Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 28713
115
How to Set Up for a
Blower Door Test
1.Fit the frame snug to the door sill
only tightening the hand screws, do
not engage the cam.
2.Lay the shroud on the ground and
fasten Velcro straps.
3.Fit back into the door sill and
engage the cam to ensure a tight fit.
138

159. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL23799Credit Sam MeyersCredit TEC and Retrotec
Blower Door
4.Place the reference tube outside
through the hole extending 3 feet
out and 6 feet over.
5.Connect all hoses and cords.
Ensure plates are installed in
front of the fan.
6.Turn on manometer.
159
115

160. Pressure Flow
Terminology
CFM Cubic Feet per Minute (airflow)
CFMn Cubic Feet per Minute (natural)
CFM50 Cubic Feet per Minute (@50 Pa)
ACH50 Air Changes per Hour (@50 Pa)
Pascals (Pa) Unit of measure for pressure and
250 Pa equals approx. 1-inch water column
Inches Water Column (IWC) Unit of measure for
pressure and equals 0.00401 Pa
160
115

161. Run Test
Get base line running average.
Set pressure 50 or run manually with the knob. Remove
appropriate rings.
The more you remove, the faster/greater the
depressurization.
Configure appropriate timings and settings in manometer.
If you find a room to be more negative when the home is
pressurized, that means it’s more connected to the outside!
161
115
TIP:
Addlow-flow ringsifyour
cfm is at50 butthe fan
pressure is too high

162. What Can Certified
Individuals Do?
Residential/commercial
buildings
Before and after air sealing
Code construction compliance
Safe room testing
162

163. Moisture
163Photo from Building America Solution Center

164. Moisture Sources
from Within the Home
Breathing
Cooking
Combustion appliances
Crawlspaces
120
144

165. Credit: University of Minnesota Exten. Service
Ice Dams
165
121

166. OutsideConditions
Insidethehome
How Moisture
Works
166
122

167. Relative Humidity
and Moisture
Relative humidity is the ratio of
the amount of water vapor in the air
at a specific temperature to the
maximum amount that the air could
hold at that temperature, expressed
as a percentage.
Warmer air can hold more
moisture than colder air.
148
123
Credit: Building Performance Institute

168. Dew Point and Humidity
Dew point is the temperature to which air must be
cooled in order to reach saturation (assuming air
pressure and moisture content are constant).
Dew point is very important in homes as we do not
want any part of the home to reach the dew point or
liquid water will form.
This is especially important in wall cavities, attics,
and crawl spaces.124
149

169. IAQ and Moisture
169Photo by Cory Chovanec, NREL

170. Problems
Must address moisture
problems before sealing or
insulating any building
Standing water in basement Credit: Building Performance InstituteCredit: Xavier Walter
127
Mold
150

171. Indoor Air Quality
(IAQ)
New understanding of the impacts of
poor indoor air
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Kids and the elderly are most impacted
Combustion gasses
Moisture issues
171
129

172. Photo courtesy of Building Performance Institute
Moisture
Sweet Spot
172
131

173. Understanding
Indoor Air
Quality
173
132
Credit: Kevin Kennedy

174. Credit XSW
Measure IAQ
174
134

175. Moisture Enters The
Home Several Ways:
Gravity
Capillary action
Diffusion
Air flow
175
135
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176. Measure
Moisture Levels
Credit: Building Performance Institute
137
Digitalhygrometer
Temp andrelative
humidity%
Slingpsychrometer
157
Measures dry bulb
and wet-bulb temp

177. Bulk Moisture
Roof leaks
Plumbing leaks
Damaged/missing gutters
Poor grade/slope against building
Ice dams
Sump pump or drain tile problems
177
139

178. Rain Gutters
and Grading
158
Checkgutters
NegativeSlope
140
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179. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Sump Pumps
Should be covered
179
140

180. How to Control Moisture
Materials include:
Polyethylene sheeting
Kraft paper
Foil
Vinyl wallpaper spray-applied foam
(closed-cell)
Perm Rating: The higher the number,
the more readily water flows
vapor barriers
vapor retarders
vapor diffusion retarders
Credit XSW
142
160

181. Air Movement
and Moisture
In a 100-square-foot, properly air-sealed
wall, over the course of one year…
Less than one pint of water can diffuse
through drywall without a vapor barrier...
BUT...
50 pints can enter through a ½ inch hole!
161Credit XSW
142

182. Credit: Total Home Performance
Vapor Barrier in
Crawlspace
Must be contiguous
Up walls/penetrations 6 in.
Sealed at all gaps
182
146

183. Define the Air
Boundary of a
Home
Examples of materials that provide adequate air
barrier:
House Wrap (Tyvek®, Typar®, etc.)
Plywood or OSB
Drywall or plaster
Spray Foam
Rigid board (foam insulation)
Masonry
Any of these will work as long as the seams are
sealed with caulk or tape as required/recommended
by the manufacturer147
163

184. Common Equipment
184Photo by Werner Slocum, NREL 144419

185. Average Equipment AFUE
Heating Oil
Cast iron (pre-1970) 60%
Retention head burner 70-78%
Mid efficiency 83-89%
Electric Heating
Central or baseboard 100%
Natural Gas
Conventional 55-65%
Mid-efficiency 78-84%
Sealed Combustion/Condensing 90-97 %
185
Many State and
Federal Modeling
have various waysto
determineefficiency.
163
Propane
Conventional 55-65%
Mid-efficiency 79-85%
Condensing 88-95%
Firewood
Conventional 45-55%
Advanced 55-65%
State-of-the-Art 75-90%

186. Efficiency
Steady State Efficiency (SSE)
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE)
Seasonal Efficiency
186
163
MOSTEfficient
LEASTEfficient

187. Combustion
Efficiency
187
Measures flue gasses
using a combustion
analyzer
Helps detect problems
164

188. Steady State
Efficiency
188
The efficiency of the unit after it’s
warmed up –typically 10-15 minutes
Only is considered when running, without
cycling on and off
The hot flue enables air to move with
less pressure
Heating components operate more fluidly
164

189. Photo from Cory Chovanec, NREL
Seasonal Efficiency
The actual efficiency of the system
takes the AFUE and subtracts for
distribution losses
A true average efficiency for the
entire heating season
The number will be lower than
both the SSE and the AFUE
189
164

190. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Outdoor Condensers
Cooling Systems
190
165
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191. Cooling System
Efficiency
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Window air conditioners
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio
(SEER)
Central systems
Higher the rating, the better
Heat Pump -HSPF
191
165

192. Refrigerant Cycles
1.Condenser coil
2.Compressor
3.Evaporator
192
168
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193. Credit ACCA
Heating and Cooling Loads
Determined by the temperature difference
between inside and out –Delta T
The rate at which a home loses heat
Standard values for calculation:
Indoor temp for heating is 70 degrees
Indoor temp for cooling is 75 degrees
Sizing systems, specifically AC is very
important
Oversizing fails to remove moisture and
causes short cycling
193
169

194. Window Shading
Interior shades, drapes, window
coverings
Exterior awnings or overhangs
Landscaping, trees, and shrubs
194
171

195. Common
Window Terms
•Glass, light, pane, glazing
•Single pane
•Dual pane, insulated glass unit (IGU),
Thermopane®, triple pane
•Low-E coating
•Argon filled
•Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC)
•Sash, frame, rough opening
195
223

196. Window Types
Window types can vary greatly in
efficiency
Window condition and installation can
determine the efficiency
196
224

197. Glass Pane
197
225
Glazing types
Often has storm
window, screen
or combination
Space between glass
may be gas-filled
Glass may be
low-E type
SINGLEDOUBLETRIPLE

198. Credit: NRFC
Window Label
1.U-Factor -how fast heat moves
through the window
2.SHGC -how much heat is allowed to
pass
3.VT -amount of visible light
198
228

199. Doors
314
Solid core exterior
Hollow interior

200. Carrier Gasket
Sweep
Credit: Building Performance Institute
Doors -Weather
Stripping
200
229

201. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Weather Stripping
Used to block heat and airflow
Use the right product for the
right solution
201
230

202. Ductwork
202Photo from Building America Solution Center

203. Graphic from Building America Solution Center
Forced Air
Distribution
203
172

204. Ductwork
Distribution
204
Supply registers:
Fixed
Supply diffusers:
Directional
Return Grill
173

205. Duct Location
205
Ducts outside the
buildingenvelope should
besealedand insulated
to MINR8.
173

206. High and Low
Returns
206
Do not use building
cavities as ductwork
173
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207. Energy Conservatory
Retrotec
Duct Testing
Used to test leakage of duct system
Duct leakage affects building
pressure
•Install on closest register to unit
•Tape all registers
•Pressurize to 25pa
207
174

208. Pay Close Attention
to Ducts
Always examine all visible ducts for
disconnected or corroded pieces
Ducts through an unconditioned space
must be sealed with mastic and insulated
Pipes and ducts that sweat can cause
moisture problems
Supplies and returns will affect pressure
differentials in a room
208
175

209. Duct Sizes and
Types Vary
209
Rigid ducts
Flex duct
R-value
Joints
Connections175

210. Credit: Mountaineer Inspection WV
Distribution Efficiency
210
175

211. Credit: Mountaineer Inspection WV
Ductwork
Issues
211
Improper sizing
Blockages
Kinks
Long runs
Excessive turns
175

212. Distribution
Losses
Conductive
Uninsulated piping or ductwork in contact with
framing transferring heat
Convective
Duct leakage (air) outside the thermal envelope
Duct leakage (air) causes increased or
decreased pressures in the living area
Radiant
Uninsulated piping or ductwork in unconditioned
spaces radiating heat to cooler surfaces
Remember how heat moves
212
175

213. Leaky Ducts Can
Impact Indoor Air
Quality
213
175
Dirty Attic
Crawlspace Air

214. Ducts and Home
Depressurization
Makes rooms more positive (+) or
negative (-)
Problem:
Drafts and cold spots
214
175
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215. 215
LUNCH
Return in 1 hour

216. Boiler Distribution
Piping
Pump
Radiators/tubing
Manifold
Most common types:
•Baseboard
•Radiator
•In-floor radiant
216
176
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217. Piped Distribution
Hydronic (hot water)
Gravity
Baseboard
Standing radiators
Radiant floor
Steam
One pipe
Two pipe
Traditionally most comfortable and efficient.
217
176
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218. Hot Water
Baseboard Heat
Soft, Warm Heat
Water can be heated with oil, gas,
electric, propane, or wood
176
218
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219. Radiant Floor Heat
Soft, warm, economical!
Electric floor heat is also available
219
176
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220. Multi-zone
Hydronic
220
176
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221. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Thermostat
Programmable: Use it to mirror
lifestyle
Internet-connected: Technology
improvements
221
177

222. Tanked Water
Heater
222
The most common are
gas or electric water
heating tanks
178
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223. Tankless/On Demand
Tankless type:
Gas/propane/electric
Great for spot heating at a sink
Requires specific gallons per minute
224Credit: Building Performance Institute
181
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224. Credit: PNNL
Solar Hot
Water Heating
224
181

225. 181
Heat Pump Water Heater
300% more efficient than
standard electric
Uses ambient air in a space
226
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226. Energy FactorsEnergy Factor (EF) is the ratio of useful
energy output from the water heater to the
total amount of energy delivered to the
water heater.
The higher the EF is, the more efficient
the water heater.
226
181

227. HE Gas Storage(Ending8/31/2010)EF≥0.62
HE Gas Storage(Beginning9/1/2010)EF≥0.67
GasCondensingEF≥0.8
HeatPumpWaterHeatersEF≥2.0
Whole-HomeGasTanklessEF≥0.82
SolarWaterHeatersSF≥0.5
Credit: Building Performance Institute
Energy Factors
227
181

228. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Adjust Water
Temperature
Follow the water heater
manufacturer directions
Temperatures less than 120
degrees can be dangerous
Too hot can scald people
228
182

229. Combustion
A chemical change, especially
oxidation, is accompanied by the
production of heat and light.
What you need for combustion:
•Oxygen
•Fuel
•Ignition source
229
182

230. Products of Complete
Combustion
CO2 Carbon Dioxide
H2O Water Vapor
Heat
Light
CH4 + 2O2 = 2H2O + CO2
Combustion analyzers can measure
efficiency in various combustion appliances
230
183

231. Check the
Burner Flames
231
A yellow or orange flame
is an indication of
incomplete combustion
183

232. Products of Incomplete
Combustion
CO (Carbon Monoxide)
Dangerous unnoticeable gas can lead to
headaches, nasal problems, and nausea
EPA exposure thresholds
9ppm for 8 hours
32ppm for 1 hour
NOx Oxides of Nitrogen
Soot
232
183
We Save Lives!!!
Does anyone suffer
from nasalproblems,
allergies or asthma?
Ask!

233. Carbon Monoxide
(CO) Poisoning
9ppm can make you sick
32ppm over time can kill you
“Flu-Like” symptoms include:
Nasal Problems, Breathing Issues,
Migraine, Headaches, or Nausea
Many household CO detectors do not go
off until 70ppm
233
184

234. Combustion SafetyCombustion appliance exhaust products are
expelled to the exterior of the home.
There is sufficient combustion (fresh) air to the
appliances for complete combustion.
There are no detectible gas leaks present.
Carbon monoxide (CO) levels within the home are
at acceptable levels.
Pressures (+/-) within the combustion zone are
within acceptable levels.
234
183

235. Combustion Appliances
No unvented combustion appliances
may operate in the living space with the
exception of gas ranges/ovens
Exhaust ventilation must always be
recommended whenever a gas or
propane cooking appliance exists
235
185

236. Credit: Building Performance Institute
CO Detector
Shall be installed according to
manufacturer's instructions in every
home with an attached garage and/or
combustion appliances
If it goes off, GET OUT!
Get one with a numerical readout
Low levels are bad too
236
185

237. Watch for Bad Venting
Always check for disconnected,
degraded, or poor vent connections
YOU CAN SAVE A LIFE!
¼ in. rise per foot
237

238. Drafting
The movement of exhaust or combustion
products up the flue, vent, or chimney to
the exterior of the building
The stack effect carries this exhaust up
the vent as long as they are hotter than
the surrounding or outside air
The colder the outside air the better the
draft, the hotter the ambient air, the
worse the draft
238
187

239. Photo Courtesy Building America Solution Center
Spillage
Test 360 degrees around the flue
pipe of DHW
Test draft perpendicular to the burner
under hood
Always carry an ambient CO monitor
to test the air around combustion
appliances
Test with a smoke stick
239
187

240. Return air in CAZ next to natural draft water heater. House as a system failure (Photo by Cory Chovanec, NREL)
Space Depressurization
Can Lead to Back
Drafting
Items that affect pressure:
Stack effect
Mechanical ventilation
Air handlers
Duct leakage
240
187

241. Mirror fog at draft diverter spillage (Photo by Cory Chovanec, NREL)
Back Drafting
241
187

242. Credit: Mountaineer Inspections WV
Danger
242
187

243. How
Depressurization
Can Occur In
Houses
243
187
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244. Appliances that
Suck Air
244
Items that apply to
creating worst-case
conditions in home
depressurization
18
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245. Why Ventilate?Ventilation for the house…
Removes moisture
Removes excess heat
Provides oxygen for combustion appliances
Ventilation for the occupants…
Replenishes oxygen to breathe
Removes contaminants/chemicals
Furniture, carpeting, paints, glues, etc.
Removes cooking and bodily odors
245
18

246. ERV. Credit: BASC
Types of Ventilation
Exhaust only
Supply only
Balanced
Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERV)
Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRV)
Whole house fans
Bath fans
246
190

247. Exhaust,
Supply, Balance
247
190
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Copyright 2023, Carson Dunlopwww.carsondunlop.comAll rights reserved.

248. Local Exhaust
vs. Whole
Building
Local exhaust: Removes air from a
specific location to address specific issues
Attics, kitchen stove, etc.
Whole house: Balance the system with
supply and return
248
190

249. Intentional
Ventilation
Mechanical Ventilation is the intentional
movement of air allowing the homeowner to
control air exchanges
Why Ventilate?
Combustion air, vent unconditioned space,
provide fresh air and remove contaminants
249
191

250. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Exhaust Venting
Bath fans
Dryer ducts
Kitchen fans -spot venting, in-line fans
Exhaust only relies on air infiltration from
unknown sources
Should be tested
250
190

251. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Must Vent All Bath Fans
Bathroom exhaust fans can cause
moisture problems, and degrade
building materials
Must be vented through insulated
duct R8+
251
190
End-users are not authorized to reprint/reuse etc. our diagrams for any purpose.
Copyright 2023, Carson Dunlopwww.carsondunlop.comAll rights reserved.

252. Dryer Duct
252
Improperdryerduct
materialcanburndown
homes and makes the
dryer less efficient
190

253. Supply Ventilation
Pressurizing spaces in hot,
humid climates
Control air source to include
advanced conditioning
techniques
253
190
End-users are not authorized to reprint/reuse etc. our diagrams for any purpose.
Copyright 2023, Carson Dunlopwww.carsondunlop.comAll rights reserved.

254. HRV and ERV
254Credit: Building Performance InstituteCredit: Total Home Performance MD
191

255. Heat Exchangers
Transfer Heat
Without Mixing
Contents
255
191
End-users are not authorized to reprint/reuse etc. our diagrams for any purpose.
Copyright 2023, Carson Dunlopwww.carsondunlop.comAll rights reserved.

256. BREAK
Return in 15 minutes

257. Module 4: Career
Pathways
Topics covered:
•Home performance
contracting
•How people use energy
•Common ratings, labels,
and programs
•Industry opportunities
257

258. Home Performance
Contracting
Health and safety
Building envelope
Mechanical systems
Appliances
Lighting
Certified individuals prove their knowledge
using the “whole-house approach.”
A great tool for HVAC contractors, insulators,
and home inspectors to grow their business
Health, Comfort, Energy Use
258
198

259. Building
Diagnostics
IdentifyingandAddressing
Thermal&Pressure Deficiencies
1.Identifythe locationof the thermalboundary
Visualinspection(lookfor insulation)
2.Verifythe locationof the pressureboundary
Typicallyusingablower door
3.Determineiftheyarealignedandtouching
Comparethe location of1 and2above
4.Dueto the stackeffectsealingthe topandbottom
(atticand basement/crawlspace)is the most
important
5.Locate andsealairbypasses
Pipechases,ducts,topplates,wires,etc.
259
199

260. Occupant Interview
Type of fuel(s) and costs per kWh or therm?
Type and age(s) of heating/cooling systems?
Service records or repairs for mechanicals?
Homeowner maintenance, filter changes?
Are any areas of the home too cold/hot?
Are any space heating/cooling units used?
Fireplace?
Frequency of use and cleaning?
Are there drafty parts of the home?
Moisture issues –mold/mildew/rot?
Does ice form at the eaves/gutters in winter?
Does anyone suffer from flu-like symptoms in winter?
260
200

261. How to Show Savings
Payback period
Dividing the initial cost by the annual savings
to find the number of years
Annual Return
Dividing the annual savings by the initial cost
percentage
Savings to Investment Ration (SIR)
Life-cycle savings are divided by the initial
investment
261
201

262. Payback and RORSimple Pay Back:
PB = Cost of retrofit in dollars / Annual
savings per year in dollars
PB = $1250 / $101.47
= 12.3 years
Rate of Return:
ROR = Annual savings per year in dollars /Cost of
retrofit in dollars
ROR = $101.47 / $1250
= 8.1%
262
202

263. Savings to
Investment Ratio
SIR = Life cycle savings in dollars / Cost of retrofit
in dollars
(Life cycle savings in dollars = Annual savings x
Life expectancy of retrofit)
= ($101.47 x 20 yrs.) ÷$1250
= $2029.40 ÷$1250
SIR= 1.6
An SIR of 1.6 means that the retrofit will pay for
itself almost twice during its life cycle
263
202

264. Interactive SavingsSavings from one measure may be increased or
decreased by adding additional measures
Why buy a new furnace and blow air into leaky ducts?
Do not insulate without air sealing
Change light bulbs and use timers.
Appliances have TWO costs:
The purchase price, and the cost to run each year
264
202

265. Energy Modeling
Size
Construction
Infiltration
Mechanicals
Location
Truing Up an Energy Model:
Compares buildings estimated usage
and actual usage
265
203

266. Energy Basics
271
Baseload calculations
and the client interview
205
Source Building Performance Institute

267. How We Use
Energy
Seasonal Consumption:
Energy consumption for heating and cooling
Seasonal consumption varies from month to
month depending on the outdoor conditions
during the billing period
Baseload Consumption: The remaining
consumption for everyday uses like lights,
laundry, cooking, etc.
Baseload varies a little from month to month and
forms a baseline on an annual energy
consumption chart
267
205

268. Monthly Gas Usage
(Therms)
Total annual usage (add all months) = 408
therms
Add up the 3 lowest months and take average
(9+13+14)/3 = 12/mth
Total Annual Baseload Usage = 144 therms
Total Annual Heating Load Usage = 408 –144
= 264 therms
Cool winters in Phoenix do not use a lot of
gas, mainly for cooking, hot water, and
laundry (
268
205

269. Monthly Electrical Usage
(kWh)
Total annual usage (add all months) =
16,111 kWh
Add up the 3 lowest months and take the
average (600+577+647)/3 = 608/mth
Total Annual Baseload Usage = 7,296
kWh
Total Annual Cooling Load Usage =
16,111 –7296 = 8,815 kWh
Hot summers in Phoenix use a lot of
electricity, mainly for air conditioning
269
205

270. Baseload Usage =
Behaviors?
The baseload can vary widely depending on the
way people use their homes
There are many factors:
Types of appliances (Energy Star or not)
Leaving lights on
Washing clothes or dishes during peak hours
Types of lighting (CFL or incandescent)
Water heater temperature setting
270
206

271. Energy Measurements
Applianceslikewashingmachines,
refrigerators,and freezersare
huge energy hogsinthe home.
Refrigerator/freezer(kWh)
20-year-old manualdefrost1300
20-year-oldside-by-side,frost-free
1400–1900
10-year-old800–1100
NewENERGYSTARqualified
400–540
271
206
Freezer(kWh)
20-year-oldupright,frost-free1400–2000
20-year-oldchest,manualdefrost1100–1300
10-year-oldchest600–800
NewENERGYSTARqualified370–430
WashingMachinesandDryers
NewENERGYSTAR-qualified washerssave50%
on bothwaterandelectricity
Gasdryerssavesignificantlyoverelectricunits,
maintenanceiskey
Tell thehomeownershowmuchitcosts

272. Demand Changes
Demandis what the house uses in
electricity and water at any given time
Peak Demand is the maximum amount
of energy the home needs with
everything running
272
206

273. Understanding Energy
Power is the rate of electricity –the
kilowatt
Capacity is the maximum load for an
appliance
Energy is how much work electricity
does (Kilowatt hour)
Consumption is how much is being used
273
207

274. Lighting
Light is measured in lumens
Lighting accounts for the majority of a
homes base load consumption
Incandescent bulbs are going out of style
A bulb’s efficiency is measured by its
efficacy
Dividing a lamp’s number of lumens by its
watts gives efficacy
274
207

275. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Lighting Choices
Replacing all bulbs with CFL will
reduce lighting costs by 80%
The most SIMPLE way to save energy
275
208

276. Lighting
276
Efficacy =efficiency of
the conversionofenergy
intolight
Expressedaslumens
per Watt(lm/w)
BulbTypeLuminousEfficacyAverageLife
Incandescent10-18lm/w1,000hours
CFL35-60lm/w8,000hours
LED27-92lm/w50,000hours

277. Other Types of
Lighting
277
High-intensity discharge
(HID)
Low-pressure sodium
208

278. Light Savings
Harvest daylight
Use switch timers
Solar powered outdoor lighting
Solar tubes in dark rooms
Properly size fixtures and lighting needs
Encourage responsible light use
278
209

279. CREDIT: ZLED Lighting
Easily Measured Savings
A 100-watt incandescent light (0.1kw)
burning 12 hours per day uses 1.2 kwhrs
per day
1.2 kwhrs x $.12 per kw = is $.14 per
day x 365 days a year = $53 per year
The same light in LED using 25 watts is
$13 per year
279
211

280. CFL Bulbs –
Contain
Mercury
280
Once thought of as
the best retrofit
Please recycle
211

281. Credit: XSW
Lighting and Appliances
Can be 50% or more of home energy
use
Baseload reduction makes largest
impact
The tighter the building shell, the more
heat gets trapped inside from lighting
and appliances
281
212

282. Other Ways We Lose Energy
282

283. 213
We Can Do MoreOther baseload reductions:
Insulate hot water piping
Install heat traps
Insulate the water heater tank (electric only)
Reduce water heater temperature to 120-125˚F
Install low-flow shower heads
Install faucet aerators
289

284. Which to Buy?
Side-by-side refrigerators/freezers use
more energy than units that have the
freezer compartment on the top or
bottom
Upright freezers use more energy than
chest freezers
Operating two refrigerators uses far
more energy than one larger model
284
214

285. Fridge and Freezer
Refrigeration has come very far in the last
5 years with more efficient compressors
and units
An old unit can burn up to 2,400kwhr
A newer unit can burn only 500kwhr
Appliances in unconditioned spaces like
garages run more frequently in summer
AND winter
285
214

286. Energy Star
ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
and the U.S. Department of Energy
helping us all save money and protect
the environment through energy-efficient
products and practices.
Energy efficient choices can save
families about a third of their energy bill
with similar savings of greenhouse gas
emissions, without sacrificing features,
style, or comfort.
286
214

287. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Energy Guide Labels
Look for it at each purchase
Identify the energy cost being used
Energy Star sticker may be on the unit
287
216

288. Credit: Europe
Home Labeling
288
European model for
labeling homes
Consumer awareness
Goes in an electric panel
217

289. Energy Star Homes
Energy Star homes cost
much less to run
Builder/buyer awareness
Built to a proven standard
Better indoor air quality
289
217

290. What is Your
Home’s MPG
290
Asset rating:
Compared to neighbors
Credit: DOE
217

291. Credit: DOECredit: RESNET
DOE Home Energy Score
Rates existing homes from 1 to 10, 10
being the best
Supports real estate appraisals and MLS
listings
It is an asset rating, not operational
heating, cooling, construction type,
fenestration, water heating, airflow,
insulation
Repair now or repair later
New home RESNET rating
291
217

292. Pearl Certification
292
Pearl engages all market actors to…
●Champion high-performing homes
●Reduce carbon footprint in US housing stock
●Advance the mission-driven home-building
industry
An Independent Study Confirmed:
Pearl-Certified Homes Sell for 3-5.5% More when Properly Marketed.Join The Movement pearlcertification.com

293. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Appraisals
293
Valuesgreenattributes
Substantiates upgrades
Requirescooperation
RESNET/
HomeEnergyScore
217

294. Credit: NEEP
Multiple Listing
Service
294
Communicating to
various MLS services;
having a stock of scored
homes helps consumers
217

295. Water Conservation
at Home
295
218

296. Ways to Save Water
Ways of saving include using:
Low-flow faucets
Low-flow shower heads
Low-flow aerators
Teach the children. Water
conservation is a MAJOR issue
around the world!
218
306

297. Occupant Energy
Behavior
Thermostat use
Window operation
Clothing levels
Unoccupied spaces
Fireplace dampers
Water heating
297
220

298. Credit: Building Performance Institute
Renewable Energy
Energy from a source that is not
depleted when used
Efficiency first!
298
232

299. Solar
299Credit: BASC

300. Hydroelectric
300
Small to large-scale
electricity generation
using water flow

301. Wind
Small to large-scale electricity
generation from wind that blows
consistently
301Credit: Building Performance Institute

302. Other Certifications From BPI
Building Analyst
Envelope
Heating
AC/Heat Pump
Quality contractors can prove their competency
302
236
Energy Auditor
Quality Control Inspector
Whole House Air Leakage Installer
More at www.bpi.org

303. Official Offerings
Primary
Air Leakage Control Installer
Building Analyst Technician
Infiltration and Duct Leakage
The ALC installs retrofit measures, it is a
well-rounded installer certification.
The BA-T covers the data collection and
diagnostic testing for energy audits, it does
not include installation.
The IDL is narrower in scope, it is specific to
duct leakage tests and blower door tests.
303
Core
AC and Heat Pump
Building Analyst Professional
Heating Professional
Manufactured Housing
Multifamily
Multifamily Building Analyst
Multifamily Building Operator
•Additional advanced certifications from BPI
are available. Visit www.bpi.orgfor more
information

304. Do No Harm!
304
To yourself
To others
To homes

305. Exams
305