All:

Does anyone know (or have a handy reference or documentation ) for explaining how eQUEST handles determination of distribution losses for Supply and Return ductwork described as located in un-conditioned plenum spaces....? I feel comfortable that I am understand eQUEST's input requirements clearly, but when I stop to think about it, I am unclear on how the sequential behavior of (LOADS) and (SYSTEM/PLANT) modules handle the dynamic interaction introduced when a change to the model of a) reducing duct leakage and/or b) insulating supply ductwork is introduced.

Along those lines - I'm unable to find any information in the 'standard'' output reports (using the D2SimViewer) to help me understand what is being reported for thermal conditions in an unconditioned plenum. Aside from creating custom hourly report variable for the zone temperature, does anyone have any other ideas for retrieving this information?

Finally - it's been my experience, from poking my head above plenty of ceiling tiles to confirm as-built drawings, that shooting a thermal image or two reveals that many commercial building HVAC systems do have supply and return ductwork distribution systems that would benefit from repair of insulation, addition of mastic, and in some cases, reconnection! In many cases, a cheap fix, whose savings can help pay for other more costly improvements.

Has anyone else who has modeled similar improvements to ductwork systems located in un-conditioned areas experienced unexpected results?

All the Best,

_Chris

Chris Balbach, PE, CEM, BEMP, CMVP, BESA, BEAP