The only source of knowledge is experience.–Albert Einstein The message is clear, HVAC equipment is often the largest energy-consuming system in a home. While listeners likely know about blower door and duct leakage tests, what impact do blower Watt draw and refrigerant charge on HVAC energy use? What can we learn from an HVAC expert with so much experience? Today’s podcast continues down the technical trail with the last installment of a three-part series on cracking open the details of the ANSI/RESNET/ACCA/ICC Standard 310. The adoption by ANSI of the RESNET/ACCA/ICC Standard for Grading the Installation of HVAC Systems sets a realistic level of the performance of an HVAC system in the reference home and awards the increased performance of a system based upon the inspection and testing of the system by a certified RESNET HERS® Rater. Grade I installation could reduce HERS® Index Scores by as much as 6 points! (depending on climate zone). Achieving a Grade I installation is also credited in the qualification of a home for the federal 45L tax credit for energy-efficient homes Previous podcasts covered the other aspects of this standard: Episode 99 with Alex Meaney (MeanHVAC) on HVAC System Design Episode 105 with Steve Rogers (TEC) on Duct leakage and AirFlow We are joined by Jim Bergmann, President of MeasureQuick and an HVAC system measurements and diagnostics expert. Jim takes the listener on a deep, technical dive. He introduces us to the technology used to measure blower fan watt draw and refrigerant charge and the power of proper diagnostic methods and techniques. After listening, you will better understand the “why and how” of getting these important parameters properly dialed in. Here are some links related to today’s podcast:: The written RESNET/ANSI/ACCA/ICC standard 310: https://www.resnet.us/wp-content/uploads/ANSIRESNETACCA_310-2020_v7.1.pdf How Quality Installation Impacts Equipment: How RESNET Standard 310 helps: https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2020/06/f75/bbrn-peer-032620.pdf A video on how to do the Non-Invasive System Test (checking charge without gauges): https://youtu.be/gOzep_Ayyr0 Software that helps: www.MeasureQuick.com You can also reach our guest via email: Jim@MeasureQuick.com Listen to the full episode here.
