How to independently calculate the heat loss of a building

How to independently calculate the heat loss of a building
How to independently calculate the heat loss of a building

Video: How to independently calculate the heat loss of a building

Video: How to independently calculate the heat loss of a building
Video: 2. Heat Loss and Heat Gain Understanding 2024, December
Anonim

Calculation of heat loss at home can be ordered from a specialized company. True, it is not cheap, and it will be impossible to check the results. It is quite another matter if you learn to analyze heat losses in the house yourself. Then no one will have to pay, and you will be one hundred percent sure of your calculations.

heat loss calculation
heat loss calculation

The amount of heat lost by a building in a certain unit of time is called heat loss. This value is not constant. It depends on seasonal fluctuations in temperature, as well as the heat-shielding properties of enclosing structures (these include walls, windows, ceilings, etc.). Significant heat losses also occur due to drafts - the air entering the room is scientifically called infiltration. And a great way to deal with them is to install modern double-glazed windows. The calculation of heat loss must necessarily take into account all these factors.

All building and finishing materials differ in their characteristics and, consequently, their thermal properties. Their structure is often heterogeneous,consists of several layers, and sometimes has closed air gaps. You can calculate the heat loss of this entire structure by adding the indicators for each of the layers.

The main characteristic of materials in our calculations will be the heat transfer resistance index. It is he who will show how much heat a section of the enclosing structure will lose (for example, 1 m2) at a certain temperature difference.

building heat loss calculation
building heat loss calculation

We have the following formula: R=DT/Q

DT – temperature difference indicator;

Q is the amount of W/m2 heat that the structure loses;

R is the heat transfer resistance coefficient.

All these indicators are easy to calculate using SNiP. They contain information regarding most traditional building materials. As for modern structures (double-glazed windows, drywall and others), the required data can be obtained from the manufacturer.

Thus, you can calculate the heat loss for each building envelope. Particular attention should be paid to exterior walls, attic floors, areas above cold basements and unheated floors. Additional heat loss occurs through doors and windows (especially those facing north and east), as well as external gates in the absence of a vestibule.

calculation of heat loss at home
calculation of heat loss at home

Calculation of building heat losses is carried out in relation to the most unfavorable period of the year. In other words, the coldest and windiest week is taken. Summing up the heat losses in this way, we candetermine the required power of all heating devices in the room, necessary for its comfortable heating. These calculations will also help to identify the "weak link" in the thermal insulation system and take additional measures.

You can also make a calculation according to general, averaged indicators. For example, for one- and two-story buildings with a minimum air temperature of -25 ° C, heat per square meter will require 213 watts. For buildings with high-quality modern insulation, this figure drops to 173 W, or even less.

Based on the foregoing, we can say that you should not save on high-quality thermal insulation. In the context of constantly rising energy prices, competent insulation and ventilation of structures lead to significant benefits.

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