The calculation of energy use in dwellings

Abstract

A simple method has been developed to enable calculation by hand of seasonal domestic energy consumption, in particular for space heating, and to assess the likely effects of an improved insulation standard. The parameters appearing in the ‘energy balance’ of a dwelling are discussed and suitable values given for substitution in the energy consumption equation. The effects of intermittent heating are discussed and data are provided on heating system efficiences. Incidental gains arising from solar radiation, occupancy and other internal sources are considered and their contribution to the total useful energy requirement evaluated. A worked example is presented to demonstrate the method of calculation. An exercise has recently been completed in which the method described in this paper has been used to predict the seasonal energy consumption of over forty occupied d. The results, which will be published later this year, indicate that on avuel consumption is predicted to within 20 per cent of the actual consu

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