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Appropriate Conservation Measures for Single-Family Buildings in Hot, Humid Climates
Abstract
The effectiveness of a number of energy
conservation measures for homes located in hot,
humid climates was analyzed using the DOE-2.1B
building simulation model. Measures having the
greatest benefits to the homeowner are predicted
to be the addition of ceiling insulation only if
the house is not already insulated, weatherization, and reduction of the wall outer surface
solar absorptance. The weatherization and solar
absorptance reduction measures should be
do-it-yourself installations to be cost-effective
Replacement of an air-conditioning unit with
a new high-efficiency unit was very effective in
reducing peak demand and annual cooling energy.
Unless the energy efficiency ratio of the existing
unit is low (< 6), replacement is generally not
cost-effective.
The measures were predicted to result in
slightly increased indoor humidities, but their
effect on human comfort was predicted to be small.
However, this conclusion should be considered
preliminary since the simulation models used for
these predictions have limitations. The amount of
energy that can be saved by these measures is very
dependent on the occupant's lifestyle, such as the
degree to which the occupants will alter clothing
to achieve comfort.
Citation
McLain, H. A.; MacDonald, J. M.; Goldenberg, D. (1985). Appropriate Conservation Measures for Single-Family Buildings in Hot, Humid Climates. Energy Systems Laboratory (http://esl.tamu.edu); Texas A&M University (http://www.tamu.edu). Available electronically from https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /6710.