I read an article a few years back about how energy-modeling was inaccurate. I disagreed with a lot of the articles premise, but not the energy-nerd’s conclusion. The article failed to specify that they were talking about residential energy modeling, which I thought was a cheap shot, because it is easier to miss the mark on poorly controlled buildings. My biggest problem with the article was that it blamed the software. I have a saying: If you want to blame the software, please consult a mirror first.
The software packages are not the main problem. Not even close. Barking up that tree is the calling card of someone who just wants to bitch about energy-modeling. I can tell you that if somebody’s primary complaint is the software, they are poorly educated within the building energy model field.
Considering that back story, I decided to add my 2 cents. So here are 5 cold hard truths about energy-modeling, from someone who promotes energy-modeling:
Why are the software packages so limited?
Cold hard truth: Corporate self interest limits the software.
Using notepad++, there is a very efficient way to compare two eQUEST pd2 or *.inp files. This also works with EnergyPlus, and basically any two text based files. Check out the video and I'll show you how.
Love ‘em or hate ‘em - Efficient light bulbs are the future. CFL’s (Squiggly bulbs) & LED’s claim to save a lot of energy and last a lot longer than conventional bulbs. They are the biggest things since, well, errr... the light bulb. (which was invented BEFORE the automobile)
Needless to say, these new products are not without controversy. And, some people simply hate change, and thus, there is a lot of criticism about Energy Efficient bulbs.
The primary question we want to address is, do these bulbs actually pay for themselves? Check out the video and find out! [Note: the purpose of the video is not to promote CFL's or LED's, but to show the value of an energy-model!]
By the way, do YOU want to run an energy model? Sign up for our highly praised “getting started Package” and start running your own evaluations using FREE software! If you aren't doing energy models, you aren't making informed decisions.
