So who is qualified to do an energy-model? Can you "do it yourself"?
When we teach classes in person, this next segment seems to generate the most interest.
You might be asking, can I really run an energy model myself?
The answer to this question depends on the type of energy model. I'll be honest and state that simulations can get exceptionally complicated, but most simulations are relatively easy. The simulations that you might read about in case studies tend to be very complicated and maybe intimidating, but remember: anything that is published is under greater scrutiny, so it follows that the models that are cited in studies are very thorough.
We will talk about energy models that ARE NOT for beginners later.
For now, let's focus on the most common (and least talked about) use of energy modeling: validating an idea.
If you need to run a simulation to validate a simple idea, it's not nearly as complicated as you might think. The main thing is that you are not simulating anything that is newly invented or any unconventional HVAC systems. Even in those cases, you might be able to make some simplifications.
I'm going to let you in on the biggest secret in the energy modeling world. The secret is this: It is usually okay to make mistakes, especially in comparative models. People usually don't mention this because it makes the simulation sound like quackery, or voodoo as some have called it.
There are many reasons that some (or multiple) mistakes are okay, but the most important reason is that when you make a comparison and change a variable (such as insulation as we discussed), you make a copy of the first building. When you copy the building, any mistakes are also copied. Thus, even when you make mistakes, or estimations in the model, you are still comparing "apples to apples".
For instance, let's consider the scenario where we compared insulation: if we change both energy models so that the heating equipment is less efficient than reality (i.e., a 'mistake'), we might get significant changes in the energy use but we still end up with about the same PERCENTAGE savings.
Models a novice should not attempt and how much do these cost to complete
As mentioned, most energy models that are performed are for validation, but the energy models that people often talk about are done for other reasons. These models tend to be very cumbersome. They also require much knowledge on Building Science and HVAC.
Examples of models that should be done by someone who specializes in building simulation and how much they can cost:
Load design calculations (should be included in design fee)
Energy compliance models such as LEED (Thousands to tens of thousands of dollars)
Models for corporate whitepapers (Thousands to HUNDREDS of thousands of dollars)
Validation models with Complicated or newly invented equipment (Thousands to ~20 Thousand USD)
In our next and final page of this series, we are going to discuss why using an energy model to illustrate your idea is INFINITELY more effective than using a spreadsheet or other "in-house" solutions.