- Progress Indicator and Prototype Models developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
- Energy Use Comparison Between ASHRAE Standards 189.1-2009 and 90.1-2010
Publications
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Document type: Presentation
Publication Date: June 2011
Focus: Code Development, Green and Advanced Codes
Presentation given at the ASHRAE Annual Meeting, ASHRAE Standard 189.1 Committee; June 29, 2011; Montreal Canada.Main topics included:
Document type: Technical Articles
Publication Date: March 2011
Focus: Compliance
The 2006 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) envelope requirements are not coupled to the home''s glazing area percentage. A home with modest glazing area, say 13% of
floor area, will likely require a more efficient envelope for 2006 IECC compliance. Conversely, a home with larger glazing area, say 20% of floor area, may achieve 2006 IECC compliance with less insulation.The 2006 IECC also implemented a new climate zone system. The system introduced more homogeneity across climates, resulting in less variation in the envelope requirements from location to location. Therefore, some locations have slightly different (higher or lower) efficiency requirements under the 2006 IECC than under the previous codes.
Document type: Reports and Studies
Publication Date: January 2007
Focus: Compliance
A study of U.S. architects, electrical engineers, lighting designers, and building contractors and their attitudes and compliance rates; sponsored by the Architectural Products Magazine and the Lighting Controls Association. The purpose of the study was to discover to what extent commercial energy codes are being implemented and enforced.
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date: April 2011
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information....
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date: April 2011
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information....
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date: April 2011
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information....
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date: April 2011
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information....
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date: April 2011
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information....
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date: April 2011
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information....
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date: April 2011
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information....
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date: April 2011
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information....
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date: April 2011
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information....
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date: April 2011
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information....
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date: April 2011
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information....
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date: April 2011
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information....
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date: April 2011
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information....
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date: April 2011
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information....
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date: April 2011
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information....
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date:
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information....
Document type: Technical Articles
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
AreaCalc is a tool to simplify the process of calculating the building areas needed to demonstrate energy code compliance. A spreadsheet-like interface is used to calculate window, door, skylight, roof, wall, and floor areas. These areas can then be transferred directly into REScheck™ where the code compliance results for those assemblies can be displayed.
Document type: Presentation
Publication Date: January 2012
Focus: Code Development
Presentation given at the ASHRAE 2012 Winter Meeting, ASHRAE Standard 90.1 Committee; January 22, 2012; Chicago, Illinois.Topics included:
- ASHRAE Standard 90.1 Progress Indicator
- ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2013 Addenda
- Energy and Cost Saving Results
- 50% Concept Ideas and Energy Savings
Document type: Reports and Studies
Publication Date: May 2011
Focus: Code Development
This report documents the progress indicator (PI) process and analysis that Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) developed to evaluate the potential energy savings from the application of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010 to building design and construction compared to the application of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2004. The report describes PNNL’s EnergyPlus simulation framework, and the building prototype simulation models. The combined upgrades from ASHRAE Standard 90.1 -2004 to ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010 are described, and consist of a total of 153 approved addenda (44 addenda to ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007 and 109 addenda to ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010). PNNL reviewed and considered all 153 addenda for quantitative analysis in the PI process. Fifty-three of those addenda are included in the quantitative analysis. This report provides information on the categorization of all of the addenda, a summary of the content, and a more in-depth explanation of the impact and modeling of the 53...
Document type: Other
Publication Date:
Focus: Adoption, Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guides (AEDGs) are a series of publications designed to provide recommendations for achieving energy savings over the minimum code requirements of ASHRAE Standard 90.1. This is the first step in the process toward achieving a net zero energy building—defined as a building that, on an annual basis, draws equal or less energy from outside resources than it provides using on-site, renewable energy sources. The guides have been developed in coordination with the following organizations: the American Institute of Architects, the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America, the U.S. Green Building Council, and the U.S. Department of Energy. The New Building Institute participated in the development of the initial guide.More information on the AEDGs may be found on the Commercial Building Initiative website....
Document type: Technical Articles
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
Eliminating unnecessary wood framing within walls can increase the thermal efficiency of the wall system. Less framing allows more insulation to be installed and also eliminates hot and cold spots (from thermal bridging through the frame) within the wall system.
Document type: Technical Articles
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
Many homes are being constructed with unfinished basements to reduce initial costs. In most cases, the homeowner eventually finishes the basement for additional living space by installing basement wall insulation. Because most basements are eventually occupied, the advantages and disadvantages of conditioning the basement should be thoroughly reviewed prior to permitting and construction.
Document type: Technical Articles
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
Traditional crawlspace designs include passive foundation-wall vents that are supposed to let moisture and contaminants escape outside. Yet field research shows that wall vents may make moisture problems worse.
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on cool roofs, which are recommended for metal building roofs and roofs with insulation entirely above deck.
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on heating and cooling system design loads for the purpose of sizing systems and equipment should be calculated in accordance with generally accepted engineering standards and handbooks such as ASHRAE Handbook--Fundamentals.
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on expanded recommendations for daylighting controls; photo sensor placement; calibration and commissioning; daylight levels.
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on glazing; glare and contrast; window design and placement.
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on visual light transmission; window and office placement; glazing; etc.
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on ductwork distribution; duct insulation; duct sealing and leakage; fan motors
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on exterior lighting power; decorative façade lighting; sources.
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on mass floors; steel joist or wood frame floors; slab-on-grade floors.
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on lighting walls and ceilings; task lighting; reflectances; lamps and ballasts; occupancy sensors; multi-level switching; electric lighting and daylight controls; exit signs.
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2010
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on the 0.9 W/ft2 foot goal for lighting power which represents an average lighting power density for the entire building. An example design describes one way (but not the only way) that this watts-per-square-foot limit can be met.
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on moisture control and air infiltration control.
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on noise path for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units.
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on insulation entirely above-deck; metal buildings; attics and other roofs; single-rafter roofs.
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on service water heating types; sizing; equipment efficiency; location; pipe insulation.
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: April 2008
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on testing, adjusting, and balancing; heating sources; filters.
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on ventilation air; exhaust air; control strategies; carbon dioxide sensors; economizers.
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on mass walls; metal building, steel framed, wood frame and other walls
Document type: AEDG Implementation Recommendations
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
The Advanced Energy Design Guide (AEDG) for Small Office Buildings, 30% series, seeks to achieve 30% savings over ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999. This guide focuses on improvements to small office buildings, less than 20,000ft2. The recommendations in this article are adapted from the implementation section of the guide and focus on thermal zones and zone temperature control.
Document type: State-specific
Publication Date: September 2012
Focus: Compliance, Enforcement
This Guide is designed to assist state and local code jurisdictions in achieving statewide compliance with the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) for residential buildings and ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2007 for commercial buildings.
Document type: State-specific
Publication Date: March 2011
Focus: Adoption
This document is a list of Alaska-specific amendments to the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code, adopted by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) on March 9, 2011. It is meant to be read in conjunction with the 2009 IECC and ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2010 which may be purchased at local bookstores or online. These amendments comprise both the residential and commercial Building Energy Efficiency Standards (BEES) for AHFC-funded residential mortgage loans and energy rebates, and energy retrofits of public buildings. These amendments supplant the BEES amendments to the 2006 IECC for residential projects as adopted on June 17, 2009, and include the amendments previously made to the 2009 IECC known as the “Commercial BEES.”
Document type: Reports and Studies
Publication Date: May 2010
Focus: Adoption
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has established ambitious goals to improve the energy efficiency requirements of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) for residential buildings. DOE has established near- and long-term goals of 30% and 50% energy efficiency improvements, respectively, compared to the 2006 IECC.This report presents DOE’s approach to calculating residential energy consumption for the purpose of estimating energy savings attributable to improvements in the code. This approach is then used to estimate the national average energy savings, relative to the 2006 IECC, resulting from the proposed improvements DOE submitted and supported for the 2012 IECC. DOE estimates a total reduction in energy use of 30.6% for the projected requirements of the 2012 IECC as compared to the 2006 IECC, assuming the use of the primary compliance option that involves standard-efficiency equipment. Were the high-equipment efficiency option used, the projected savings would...
Document type: Analysis, Determination
Publication Date: October 2011
Focus: Code Development
A final qualitative analysis of all addenda to ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007 that were included in ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010 was conducted. All 109 addenda processed by ASHRAE in the creation of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010 from ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007 were evaluated by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for their impact on energy efficiency. DOE determined whether each addendum would have a positive, neutral, or negative impact on overall building efficiency.
Document type: Analysis, Determination
Publication Date: October 2011
Focus: Code Development
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) conducted a final quantitative analysis to assess whether buildings constructed according to the requirements of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010 would result in energy savings compared with buildings constructed to ASHRAE Standard 90.1- 2007. The final analysis considered each of the 109 addenda to ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007 that were included in ASHRAE Standard 90.1- 2010. All 109 addenda processed by ASHRAE in the creation of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010 from ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007 were reviewed by DOE, and their combined impact on a suite of 16 building prototype models in 15 ASHRAE climate zones was considered. Most addenda were deemed to have little quantifiable impact on building efficiency for the purpose of DOE’s final determination. However, out of the 109 addenda, 34 were preliminarily determined to have a measureable and quantifiable impact.
Document type: Analysis, Determination
Publication Date: May 2011
Focus: Code Development
The United States (U.S.) Department of Energy (DOE) conducted a final quantitative analysis to assess whether buildings constructed according to the requirements of the ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007 would result in energy savings compared with buildings constructed to ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2004. The final analysis considered each of the 44 addenda to ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2004 that were included in ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007. All 44 addenda processed by ASHRAE in the creation of Standard 90.1-2007 from ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2004 were reviewed by DOE, and their combined impact on a suite of 15 building prototype models in 15 ASHRAE climate zones was considered. Most addenda were deemed to have little quantifiable impact on building efficiency for the purpose of DOE’s final determination. However, out of the 44 addenda, 9 were preliminarily determined to have measureable and quantifiable impact.
Document type: Analysis, Determination
Publication Date: January 2011
Focus: Code Development
A final qualitative analysis of all addenda to ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2004 that were included in ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007 was conducted. All 44 addenda processed by ASHRAE in the creation of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007 from ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2004 were evaluated by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for their impact on energy efficiency. DOE preliminarily determined whether that addenda would have a positive, neutral, or negative impact on overall building efficiency.
Document type: Technical Articles
Publication Date: March 2011
Focus: Compliance
Calculating the areas of the building components (e.g., windows, doors, exterior walls) is easily the most time-consuming step in energy code compliance. This article contains some helpful hints for calculating area takeoffs.
Document type: Technical Articles
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
There are many areas for air leakage, including exterior doors, windows, floors, and foundations. In addition, places such as electrical boxes and plumbing fixtures can be areas for air leakage. It is important to seal air leaks before insulating.
Document type: Comparison, State-specific, Technical Assistance report
Publication Date: August 2005
Focus: Adoption
This study was undertaken for the Arizona Department of Commerce, who requested the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) provide technical assistance with regard to identifying the major differences in the model energy codes as they might be applied to various locations in Arizona. This study focuses upon the requirements for commercial (non-residential) buildings in these codes. In both codes, “commercial” buildings include high-rise multi-family buildings as well as traditional “commercial” occupancies such as offices, retail buildings, and assembly buildings.
Document type: Analysis, Determination
Publication Date: January 2006
Focus: Regulatory
This worksheet aggregates the results of building energy simulations used in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's determination regarding whether ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999 will improve energy efficiency in commercial buildings. This determination is required by Section 304 of the Energy Conservation and Production Act.
Publication Date: March 2010
Focus: Regulatory
This worksheet aggregates the results of building energy simulations used in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's determination regarding whether ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2004 will improve energy efficiency in commercial buildings. This determination is required by Section 304 of the Energy Conservation and Production Act.
Document type: Code Notes
Publication Date: March 2011
Focus: Compliance
Automatic shutoff capability for all interior building lighting (with exceptions) is required by ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007 (as well as previous versions back to 1999) and the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (including versions back to 2003) for buildings over 5,000ft2.
Document type: Reports and Studies
Publication Date: July 2008
Focus: Adoption, Compliance
This report described the results of a two-year Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance study intended to improve understanding of the new commercial building stock in the Pacific Northwest region. It provided a new regional baseline for practices in commercial buildings constructed between 2002 and 2004 and compared those practices with previous baseline and code compliance studies conducted from 1996 to 1998. The study also looked at changes in design professionals' attitudes toward energy efficiency across the same periods.
Document type: Technical Articles
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance, Residential
Residential basement insulation levels should be selected in accordance with the International Energy Conservation Code, or the local energy code. Be sure to insulate both the masonry and stud walls of daylight basements.
Document type: Resource Guide
Publication Date: September 2011
Focus: Compliance
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recognizes the enormous potential that exists for improving the energy efficiency, safety and comfort of homes. The 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) sets the bar for energy efficiency, and air sealing requirements are one of the key provisions.This guide is a resource for understanding the air leakage requirements in the 2012 IECC and suggestions on how these measures can be met. It also provides information from Building America’s Air Sealing Guide, best Practices and case studies on homes that are currently meeting the provisions. The 2012 IECC and a few International Residential Code requirements are referenced throughout the guide.
Document type: Resource Guide
Publication Date: October 2010
Focus: Compliance
The guide includes practical plan review and inspection resources, including the U.S. Department of Energy Building Energy Codes Program's REScheck™ and COMcheck™ quick reference guides, case studies, and sample inspection checklists; as well as excerpts from International Code Council's commentaries, workbooks, and code companion materials.This collection also includes many other helpful items and points to further resources available on the web. Residential and commercial building officials can easily add state and local guidance in order to use this binder as a one-stop resource to support compliance in the field.
Document type: Other, Program Information, Reports and Studies
Publication Date: February 2010
Focus: Adoption, Code Development, Compliance
In order to provide a basic introduction to the varied and complex issues associated with building energy codes, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Building Energy Codes Program, with valued assistance from the International Codes Council and ASHRAE, has prepared Building Energy Codes 101: An Introduction. This guide is designed to speak to a broad audience with an interest in building energy efficiency, including state energy officials, architects, engineers, designers, and members of the public.
Document type: Reports and Studies
Publication Date: August 2007
Focus: Compliance, Enforcement
A study funded by the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association to identify "the best practices in energy code support, compliance, and enforcement, and...[to promote and replicate] those best practices in other municipalities across Arizona."
Document type: Resource Guide
Publication Date: June 2011
Focus: Adoption, Code Development, Compliance
This guide provides key information to policy makers on energy codes and standards and offers guidance on how policy makers can support the creation of statewide energy efficiency goals and standards. In addition, this guide instructs policy makers on how they can:
- Encourage the adoption of statewide codes.
- Establish energy code awareness programs.
- Support enforcement of and compliance with energy codes.
- Participate in the development of model codes and standards.
- Determine the viability of the new code.
Document type: Resource Guide
Publication Date: September 2011
Focus: Compliance
This guide provides key information on energy codes tailored for architects and provides guidance on how they can support the adoption of new or updated energy codes and the resources needed to ensure compliance with what is adopted. The guide also includes information on the importance of architects in the development and compliance verification processes; information on the interface between codes and the design process; design and compliance tools; information on building construction and commissioning, and many other resources that are key to helping architects understand the important role energy codes through the design process play in addressing our energy, economic and environmental challenges.
Document type: Other
Publication Date: April 2006
Focus: Adoption, Compliance
This document is to be used to guide the efforts associated with conducting evaluations of California’s energy efficiency programs and program portfolios launched after December 31, 2005, and includes the Codes and Standards Program Evaluation Protocol, which is designed to guide evaluation approaches for codes and standards programs.
Document type: Other
Publication Date:
Focus: Adoption, Compliance
This document presents a consistent, systemized, cyclic approach for planning and conducting evaluations of California's energy efficiency and resource acquisition programs, and provides valuable information concerning when evaluations should be conducted, the types of evaluation that can be conducted, and a discussion of approaches for conducting those studies.
Document type: Technical Articles
Publication Date: March 2011
Focus: Compliance
Insulation should be installed to fill the entire cavity. REScheck™ uses nominal insulation R-values. The assemblies listed in REScheck already have a default value added for standard sheathing (depending on the assembly component).
Document type: Technical Articles
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
Older calculation requirements limited REScheck™'s computations for log walls, but standardized calculations have allowed a REScheck to expand (starting with version 3.7.1). The calculations are much more detailed and specific to each wood species. The most noticeable change is an improvement in the calculation accuracy and usability of the software.
Document type: Code Notes
Publication Date:
Focus: Compliance
The 2009 International Residential Code and International Energy Conservation Code do not permit trade-offs for installing high-efficiency heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment—installing a 90%+ furnace as a trade-off for 2" x 4" stud walls with R-13 insulation. The more permanent building insulation and sealing features now take precedence. However, there still remain optional strategies allowing 2" x 4" exterior stud walls.
Document type: State-specific
Publication Date:
Focus: Adoption
In an effort to provide high levels of continuing energy code support to Colorado’s 329 code jurisdictions, the Governor’s Energy Office commissioned an independent survey to better understand the types of code assistance desired. The survey was conducted by the International Codes Council between October and December 2008. The collected responses from 174 of Colorado’s code jurisdictions are presented in this report.
Document type: Analysis, State-specific
Publication Date:
Focus: Adoption
The purpose of the Colorado Gap Analysis Report is twofold: 1) document and analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the state’s existing energy code adoption and implementation infrastructure and policies; and 2) recommend potential actions state agencies, local jurisdictions, and other stakeholders can take to achieve 100% compliance with the model energy codes.
Document type: Technical Support Document
Publication Date: October 2009
Focus: Compliance
You can use COMcheck™ to demonstrate that your commercial or high-rise residential building design complies with the ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2004 and ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007.The COMcheck software provides a highly flexible way to demonstrate compliance with minimal input. The envelope section allows tradeoffs between envelope components, including roofs, walls, windows, floors, and skylights. The lighting section enables you to quickly determine if your lighting design meets interior-lighting power limits. The mechanical section enables you to assemble a customized list of code requirements that are applicable to the systems and equipment in your building.
Document type: Compliance Tool
Publication Date: October 2009
Focus:
You can use COMcheck™ to demonstrate that your commercial or high-rise residential building design complies with the 2004, 2006, and 2009 editions of the International Energy Conservation Code.The COMcheck software provides a highly flexible way to demonstrate compliance with minimal input. The envelope section allows tradeoffs between envelope components, including roofs, walls, windows, floors, and skylights. The lighting section enables you to quickly determine if your lighting design meets interior-lighting power limits. The mechanical section enables you to assemble a customized list of code requirements that are applicable to the systems and equipment in your building.
Document type: Code Notes
Publication Date: June 2011
Focus: Compliance
The 2009 International Energy Conservation Code requires openings in the building envelope to be sealed to prevent air leakage into and out of the space, including an air barrier at insulation installations.
Document type: Technical Articles
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
A study that assessed the energy-related characteristics of over 160 buildings planned for construction in and after 2001 showed that the majority of newly constructed commercial buildings in the United States already meet or exceed ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1989 standard for envelope requirements.
Document type: Compliance Tool
Publication Date: June 2012
Focus: Compliance
In supporting state energy code compliance evaluations, the Building Energy Codes Program (BECP) has developed commercial data collection checklists. The checklists are available for use as paper checklists or electronic Microsoft Word® forms.The BECP also developed an online tool, the Checklist Score + Store. While overall compliance can be determined manually for individual buildings and groups of renovations, this tool provides automated building scores and state-wide consolidation of data. Individual building scores will remain confidential (available only to the state and their contractors), but storing data nationally will shed valuable light on nationwide compliance, as well as changes in compliance over time.Guidelines for using the checklists may be found in Measuring State Energy Code Compliance, Section 6.0.
Document type: Technical Articles
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2004 and the 2003 International Energy Conservation Code include requirements for interior and exterior lighting in new construction, additions, and alterations for all commercial buildings, including residential structures with four or more stories above grade.
Document type: Comparison
Publication Date: December 2009
Focus: Code Development
This report addresses the comparability of the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code as applied to commercial buildings and ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007.
Document type: Comparison
Publication Date: September 2011
Focus: Code Development
This report addresses the comparability of the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code as applied to commercial buildings and ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010.
Document type: Comparison
Publication Date: December 2006
Focus: Code Development
This document presents the qualitative comparison of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE’s) formal determination of energy savings of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2004. The term “qualitative” is used in the sense of identifying whether or not changes have a positive, negative, or neutral impact on energy efficiency of the standard, with no attempt made to quantify that impact. A companion document will present the quantitative comparison of DOE’s determination.
Document type: Model Data
Publication Date:
Focus: Code Development
The ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype building models were developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Building Energy Codes Program. These prototype buildings were derived from DOE's Commercial Reference Building Models. This suite of ASHRAE Standard 90.1 prototype buildings covers all the Reference Building types except supermarket, and also adds a new building prototype representing high-rise apartment buildings.The prototype models include 16 building types in 17 climate locations for ASHRAE Standards 90.1-2004, 90.1-2007 and 90.1-2010. This combination leads to a set of 816 building models (in EnergyPlus Version 6.0). Also included is a scorecard for each prototype building. The scorecard is a spreadsheet that summarizes the building descriptions, thermal zone internal loads, schedules and other key modeling input information.
Document type: Reports and Studies
Publication Date: September 2011
Focus: Adoption, Compliance
Conformity assessment is a term used to describe the processes followed to demonstrate that a product, service, management system, or body meets specified requirements, such as standards, codes, laws, regulations, or other criteria. With respect to energy codes, conformity assessment includes all activities and tasks undertaken by any number of entities to ensure that the provisions of an adopted energy code are achieved at a designated point in time. This report identifies and discusses conformity assessment activities and provides guidance for developing new or adjusting existing ways of verifying compliance. In addition, this report looks at different ways to ensure that the energy efficiency goals of an adopted code or standard are achieved.
Document type: Technical Articles
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
Adequate attic ventilation is a long-standing requirement in building codes. However, conditioned, unvented attics have the potential to reduce residential energy needs and are allowed by code under certain conditions. Such assemblies are sometimes called cathedralized attics because, as with cathedral ceilings, the insulation is in the rafters and/or roof deck.
Document type: Code Notes
Publication Date: October 2011
Focus: Compliance
Converting a basement to conditioned space increases the living space of a house. As with most construction activities, the conversion or remodeling must be done in compliance with construction codes in force at the time the remodel permit is issued. Compliance shall be demonstrated by meeting the requirements of the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code.
Document type: Code Notes
Publication Date: December 2011
Focus: Compliance
Converting an existing unconditioned garage to conditioned space is a popular strategy for increasing the living space of a house. Typically, the conversion or remodeling must be done in compliance with construction codes in force at the time the remodel permit is issued. Compliance shall be demonstrated by meeting the requirements of the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code.
Document type: Reports and Studies
Publication Date: April 2009
Focus: Adoption, Code Development, Compliance
At the request of the U.S. Department of Energy, the Joint Global Change Research Institute has prepared a series of reports surveying building energy codes in seven of the Asia-Pacific Partnership on Clean Energy and Climate (APP) countries. These reports include country reports on building energy codes in each APP partner country and a comparative report based on the country reports.
Document type: Code Notes
Publication Date: August 2012
Focus: Compliance
A demand control ventilation (DCV) system is an integral part of a building’s ventilation design. It adjusts outside ventilation air based on the number of occupants and the ventilation demands that those occupants create
Document type: Determination
Publication Date:
Focus: Code Development
The Energy Conservation and Production Act provides that whenever the ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1989, or any successor to that code is revised, the Secretary of Energy must determine whether the revised code would improve energy efficiency in commercial buildingsThe U.S. Department of Energy has performed both a quantitative analysis of the likely impacts of the revised code on the energy efficiency of seven categories of new commercial buildings, compared to the 1989 edition, and a non-quantitative assessment of the comparative stringency of those elements of the revised code that could not be analyzed quantitatively.The quantitative analysis concluded that the1999 revision of the code would likely reduce the source energy consumption of new commercial buildings by approximately 5.9 percent. Site energy savings were estimated to be approximately 3.9 percent. The comparative assessment of those elements of the 1989 and 1999 revised codes that could not be quantitatively analyzed also...
Document type: Code Notes
Publication Date: June 2011
Focus: Compliance
Codes allow crawlspaces with mechanical ventilation instead of crawlspaces with passive vents to the outdoors. However, code officials and builders are often uncertain about the design details.
Document type: Determination, Technical Support Document
Publication Date: September 2009
Focus:
The Energy Conservation and Production Act of 1976, as amended, requires the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to determine whether revisions to the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) would improve energy efficiency in residential buildings. An “affirmative determination” for any IECC revision triggers a requirement that each state certify to DOE, within 2 years of the publication of the determination, that it has reviewed the provisions of the new code and made a determination whether it is appropriate to update its building code(s) to meet or exceed the revised IECC.
Document type: Determination
Publication Date: July 2005
Focus: Code Development
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) determined that ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999, would achieve greater energy efficiency in buildings, except low-rise residential buildings, than ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1989. As a result of this positive determination regarding ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999, each state is required to certify that it has reviewed and updated the provisions of its commercial building code regarding energy efficiency to meet or exceed ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999 for any “building” within the meaning of Section 303(2) of the Energy Conservation and Production Act of 1976, as amended. This Notice provides guidance to states on certifications, and requests for extensions of deadlines for certification statements.
Document type: Presentation
Publication Date: July 2009
Focus: Code Development
This July 2009 presentation details the U.S. Department of Energy Building Energy Codes Program's game plan and progress report regarding the development of energy efficiency standards for manufactured housing.
Document type: Brochures/Fliers, Program Information
Publication Date: July 2011
Focus: Adoption, Code Development, Compliance
As our country continues to focus on saving energy and reducing emissions in the face of global climate change, it is turning to the building sector for viable solutions. The effects of energy use in residential and commercial buildings are nationwide, worldwide and varied. In the U.S. alone, residential and commercial buildings account for 40% of all energy consumption and 70% of electricity usage.
Document type: Proposals
Publication Date: March 2010
Focus: Code Development
The U.S. Department of Energy submitted 56 code change proposals for the International Code Council's (ICC) Code Development Cycle produced the 2012 I-codes. Thirty-two of the proposals were primarily related to commercial buildings, 24 were for residential buildings. The proposals were mainly to the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) though most of the residential proposals also applied to Chapter 11 of the International Residential Code.The central theme of the DOE proposals is to improve energy efficiency. Additionally, for commercial buildings DOE attempted to make the IECC more consistent with ASHRAE Standard 90.1. Finally, some proposals were not intended to change requirements but rather improve the usability of the codes, fix wording, correct errors, etc.DOE invited discussion on these proposals and on preparations for the ICC code hearings that took place from October 24 through November 11, 2009, in Baltimore, Maryland.The proposals are available for download in...
Document type: Code Notes
Publication Date: June 2011
Focus: Compliance
Metal or plastic drywall clips can be used to replace a third stud at a corner, at a partition intersection backing stud, or in the ceiling to replace a nailer. The reduced attachment (wood to drywall) resulting from the use of dry wall clips allows small movements without drywall cracking and nail pops.
Document type: Code Notes
Publication Date: May 2012
Focus: Compliance
Duct insulation and sealing, especially insulated supply ducts delivering conditioned air within a building, save energy. The intent of energy efficiency codes, as related to duct insulation and sealing, is to keep mechanically warmed or cooled air as close to a constant, desired temperature as possible and prevent the conditioned air from escaping the duct system while it is being moved to spaces where it is needed. If reduced heat transfer through insulated ducts is accounted for in the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) load calculations, it may even be possible to reduce the size of HVAC equipment.
Document type: Code Notes
Publication Date: August 2009
Focus: Compliance
Many studies have shown that visual inspection of duct seals in residences is not enough. Code now requires a pressure test. Pressure testing ducts as required by the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code is far superior to visual inspection and will definitively confirm that duct leakage is kept to a low level.
Document type: Technical Articles
Publication Date: May 2009
Focus: Compliance
Ducts and air handlers should be placed in conditioned spaces when possible. Ducts typically lose substantial amounts of energy from both conduction and leakage; keeping them in a conditioned space minimizes the impact of these losses. Ducts inside a conditioned space must be properly sealed, but are not required to be insulated.
Document type: Code Notes
Publication Date: July 2011
Focus: Compliance
The 2009 International Energy Conservation Code defines conditioned space as an area or room within a building being heated or cooled, containing uninsulated ducts, or with a fixed opening directly into an adjacent conditioned space. Various studies have identified compelling reasons for locating all heating, ventilation, and air conditioning ducts and air handlers within this conditioned space.