Energy calculation for HVAC systems

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around estimating the energy costs for heating and cooling in a commercial office building's tenant space. Participants explore methods for approximating these costs given limited data, focusing on HVAC systems and the challenges associated with accurate measurements.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks advice on approximating heating and cooling costs using available variables such as square footage, head count, and computer count.
  • Another participant suggests consulting ASHRAE handbooks or technical standards for standard procedures in estimating energy balances.
  • Some participants propose that using a computer modeling program is essential for obtaining a realistic estimate due to the complexity of the variables involved.
  • A participant expresses concern about the feasibility of using modeling software without prior training.
  • Links to resources for HVAC modeling programs are shared, including a mention of a free trial for a specific software.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that accurate estimation requires more sophisticated methods, such as computer modeling, but there is no consensus on the best approach or specific tools to use.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights limitations in available data and the challenges of estimating energy costs without comprehensive measurements or modeling capabilities.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals involved in HVAC system design, energy management, or those seeking to estimate energy costs in commercial buildings may find this discussion relevant.

MacLaddy
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I've been asked to approximate a dollar amount for heating and cooling an occupied tenant space in a commercial office building.

We've looked into installing a temporary gauge on each unit to give us a good approximation, but the cost to gauge up all the electrical and gas was beyond the scope of what I'm allowed. I even looked at just gauging up a few and approximating the rest, but that wasn't feasible either.

The only variables I can provide are square footage, head count, and a possible computer count.

Any ideas on how I can come up with a reasonable number? Any help is appreciated.

Mac

Additional Info - This space is controlled by 8 package rooftop Lennox units, varying between 3 and 7 tons.
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
ASHRAE provides standard heating and cooling procedures for estimating heating and cooling energy balances. See if you can access any of their handbooks or technical standards at your school or company library.
www.ASHRAE.orgor get an estimate from a heating and air conditioning contractor or your local utility.
 
The only way to get a realistic estimate is to use a computer modeling program.
 
NUCENG said:
ASHRAE provides standard heating and cooling procedures for estimating heating and cooling energy balances. See if you can access any of their handbooks or technical standards at your school or company library.
www.ASHRAE.org

Thanks for the link. I'll look through it.

russ_watters said:
The only way to get a realistic estimate is to use a computer modeling program.

That's what I was afraid of. There are just too many variables to take into account.
Just curious, what kind of program could model this? I haven't delved into anything like that yet.

Mac
 
Thanks Russ! I'll give it a shot. (although I doubt I'll be able to accomplish much without training)
 

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