OVERVIEW
Energy-efficient HVAC design is a fundamental of green building, for good reason:
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The scale of the issue: HVAC is responsible for more than a third of energy use in commercial buildings in the U.S.
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The scale of returns: Smart designs can easily save upwards of 40% of that energy, often with strategies that offer instant or short “payback.”
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The human impact: Discomfort from spaces that are too hot or too cold, and lack of adequate ventilation, are an epidemic. Good design that fixes these problems supports healthier, more productive occupants.
Don’t make the all-too-common mistake of thinking of HVAC design separately from building envelope design. Over-glazed buildings lead to oversized mechanical systems, increasing costs on both fronts. A tight, well-insulated envelope may cost a bit more but can pay for itself with less mechanical equipment.
IN-DEPTH
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Mixed-Use Chicago Building Uses Renewables
News Brief
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Ground-Source Heat Pumps: Tapping the Earth's Mass
Primer
Ground-source heat pumps take advantage of stable temperatures just below the Earth's crust for energy-efficient heating and cooling.
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Enertia Double-Envelope Home Still Has Problems
Product Review
Although its passive solar design is sound, the Enertia double-envelope home's energy performance claims may be overstated and its design presents fire risks.
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BP Funds Energy Institute
News Brief
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New Program to Cut Outdoor Wood Boiler Emissions
News Analysis
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has announced a new voluntary testing and labeling program for outdoor wood boilers to reduce their particlulate emissions.
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Cold Climate Heat Pump Redux
Product Review
The two-stage high-capacity cold-climate heat pump that was introduced in 2004 and then discontinued in 2005 is back, and from more than one company.
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Patagonia Grows into a New Building
News Brief
Ten years after EBN's initial case study of the Patagonia distribution center in Reno, Nevada, the company has completed a substantial addition, learning from and improving on the first building.
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Climate Energy Brings Combined Heat and Power Home
Product Review
The idea of combining electricity generation with the production of useful heat-referred to as combined heat and power (CHP) or cogeneration-has long been attractive. Now, after many false starts, a viable residential-scale CHP system is about to enter the market.
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Unvented Gas Heaters Still Gaining Ground
News Brief
Annual sales of unvented gas heaters have nearly doubled since we expressed concern ten years ago.
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Stricter Air-Conditioner Efficiency Standards Take Effect
News Brief