building envelope energy efficiency measures

#Building envelope energy efficiency measures windows#

Conditioned (heated or cooled) air leaking out of the building, or outside air leaking in, through surface cracks and openings around windows and doors can dramatically increase the amount of energy needed to operate HVAC systems in order to maintain building comfort. The building envelope can waste energy in four basic ways: For these buildings, a well-insulated 'tight' envelope will actually increase HVAC energy consumption. In fact, for many commercial buildings the HVAC systems primarily work to remove interior heat (from occupants, lighting, and equipment) from the building. In Southern California, however, buildings can also take advantage of typically mild ambient conditions. If the building envelope is 'tight,' the outside temperature fluctuations will have less impact on the building HVAC systems which work to maintain indoor temperatures. For example, high efficiency lighting reduces air conditioning costs since less heat is generated in the building by the high efficiency lighting. The building envelope, lighting, and HVAC systems should work together to optimize energy efficiency and provide a comfortable, pleasant environment for employees and customers. Windows, doors, skylights and other apertures impact interior lighting and ventilation conditions in addition to heating and cooling demands. The ability of the foundation, walls and roof to isolate occupants from outdoor conditions significantly impacts the operation of HVAC systems. This 'shell' is an integral part of the energy system. The building envelope is comprised of the foundation, floors, walls, roof, windows, exterior doors and other components separating the 'inside' from the 'outside' of a building.

Building envelope energy efficiency measures