Energy calculations for residential construction
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Greatly in need of assistance.
I will be the Owner/Builder and constructing a new home in the Kern County/Southern California area. I’ve nearly completed (I HOPE) the design drawings and code compliance criteria with exception of an energy calculation(s) requirement which the Inspector says I must complete (They sure are hard to contact during these times). I’ve completed voltage plans in the past, however, I am unsure if there is a designated design criteria involved for completing energy calculations. My online research leads me to the typical usage spreadsheets (which I think are fine). I’ve gathered all appliances energy usage numbers and looked for calculators/spreadsheets online. My large problem is that some of the websites I’ve tried appear to be less than reputable.
Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Dune
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Replies
My wild guess is the inspector is looking for a manual J calculation. In my opinion a manual J calculation is a good idea but getting accurate is a lot of work. Many HVAC contractors will give you a free manual J calculation that will satisfy the inspector. In my opinion 99% of theses are worthless and leading you to install 2 or 3 times larger equipment than desirable. Like most things you get what you pay for.
I thought I read somewhere that all new CA homes were required to have solar panels installed. If so there will be several calculations required.
Walta
Thanks Walter,
I agree. With everything I've learned over the past couple years while designing this build I have decided to go with Mitsubishi mini-splits and Lunos E-Go and E2 venting for HVAC. Simple, efficient, and I think cost effective.
As for solar, the earlier requirement has changed slightly and does not require solar, however, I am designing a solar grid-tied system and including that with my plans submission.
Many places require a ResCheck, but California has its own set of rules.
https://www.energycodes.gov/rescheck
Thanks Michael,
I'm going to try it.
Michael,
As it turns out ResCHECK map link shows California not compliant with their version.
NUTZ
Dune,
You'll need to be sure that your plans comply with California's Title 24. If you aren't well versed in the code, you should hire a Title 24 consultant to help you.
Thanks Martin,
I believe when all is done on my end I will bring everything to an engineer and Title 24 consultant. It will make plans go a little smoother.