Focus: Energy Efficiency

Four energy-saving design tips for cold climates

In cold climates, heating loads are key


To reduce heating loads for school buildings in cold climates, focus on these four design and operations tips, according to an article from Building Operating Management on the FacilitiesNet website.

Controlling heat loss, managing energy costs, and controlling thermal comfort are primary drivers. 

#1: Minimizing footprint is a strategy for both cold and hot climates; however, the type of roof varies for cold locations. Flat roofs with internal drainage are typical in cold urban locations whereas sloped metal roofs are considered more durable for remote locations.

#2: Control internal heat loss and manage plug loads. Cold climate energy tactics include highly insulated wall and roof envelopes, high-performing windows to keep heat inside, peel and stick air barriers on the warm side of the wall, and minimized building skin penetrations.

#3: Achieve optimal design for window, solar heat gain, daylight, and views. Cold climate strategies balance the need for daylight and views.

#4: Design the optimal building envelope for cold climate schools. In colder climates, the building envelope requires a continuous air barrier to be skin-tight and act as a vapor barrier.

Read the article.

 



August 19, 2019


Topic Area: Energy Efficiency


Recent Posts

Seeking Standards for Microbial Loads in Healthcare Facilities

Why is there no binding standard for the acceptable microbial load on surfaces or in the air in hospitals?


UCR Health Unveils Plans for Major Expansion

The vision for the site will include an outpatient diagnostic center and possible future expansion.


High-Performance Windows Support Safety at UW Medicine's New Behavioral Health Center

Case study: Engineered for strength, quiet and daylight, the chosen windows help create a safe, calming and energy-efficient environment for patients and providers.


Central Maine Healthcare Dealing with IT System Outage

The organization identified unusual activity within their computer software, prompting them to secure and shut off all IT systems.


Kaiser Permanente Opens Newly Expanded Everett Medical Center

The facility offers primary care and pediatric care and has specialty care departments.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 
 
 
 

Healthcare Facilities Today membership includes free email newsletters from our facility-industry brands.

Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Posts

Copyright © 2023 TradePress. All rights reserved.