Journal Entry For
Module 9 - HVAC Systems
Overall HVAC system strategy (based on Psychrometric Chart from Climate Consultant)
- Fluid-Based Heating Sysyem (passive cooling only when needed)
- Radiant heating on floors
- Passive solar direct gain heating
- Seattle and the climate zone is generally pretty cool, so air conditioning is likely not needed
- Can open windows/use passive ventilation when need cooling
- Heating is main demand that is needed
- Solar on roof to provide energy for these loads
Heating strategy and how you implemented it in your design
- Heating was mainly done through passive solar gain, radiant floors and very high R-value walls, windows, foundations and roofing
Cooling strategy and how you implemented it
- Little to no cooling is needed as the climate zone needs basically only heating
- When needed, natural ventilation through opening of windows can be used
Any special HVAC system challenges that you encountered
- Heat loss through windows and walls was relatively high. The most important element of keeping the building warm enough was using very thick walls and windows with high R-values
- Initially when I did the HVAC analysis, almost all the heat was being lost to the walls and windows, and especially to the windows
- I adjusted the R-values to reduce heat loss (adjustment shown below)
Initial Schematics
Adjusted Schematics
Ducts, Supply/Return Air Layout
Basic Radiant Floor Modeling
