We get this question quite often and it is not always easy to answer. There are many
variables from specific geographic location to occupant behavior and habits that
will influence this answer. That being said- we have performed building case studies
in both the commercial and residential applications, dividing up the United states
into several regions of influence to better understand and predict building electrical
consumption rates. For example; a typical wood framed “stick” home built in Texas
utilizing standard construction techniques and materials would equate like this:
63% HVAC system, 18% Hot Water heater, 12% Refrigerator and 7% other systems. With
the highest electrical consumption being the HVAC system; this is the system that
will require the greatest mitigation in order to reduce electrical consumption. There
are three specific areas that must be addressed in an integrated sense; building
envelope, HVAC equipment design and use and human behavior, and the building design,
utilizing UDC’s integrated approach. Addressing these three will allow the HVAC system
to cool and warm the entire building at less than 1% of the original 63% or electrical
consumption and for less money to install and maintain over the course of the systems
life.
