Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Fundamentals of HVAC Energy Efficiency

• Understand HVAC energy consumption patterns in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
• Learn about psychrometrics and thermal comfort parameters.
• Identify common inefficiencies in HVAC systems and their impact on energy use.

2. HVAC Load Calculation and Energy Performance Metrics

• Perform heat load calculations to optimize system sizing.
• Define and apply Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), including:
• Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER).
• Coefficient of Performance (COP).
• Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER).
• HVAC Energy Intensity Index.
• Use energy modeling software for load estimation (e.g., TRACE 700, HAP, eQUEST).

3. Strategies for Enhancing HVAC Energy Efficiency

• Air Conditioning Optimization:
• Implement variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems.
• Improve chiller efficiency with thermal storage and free cooling.
• Upgrade to high-efficiency heat pumps and inverter-driven compressors.
• Ventilation & Air Distribution:
• Optimize air handling units (AHUs) and fan coil units (FCUs).
• Improve duct sealing and air balancing.
• Utilize demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) with CO₂ sensors.
• Heating Optimization:
• Improve boiler efficiency and heat recovery.
• Implement solar-assisted heating solutions.
• Use smart thermostats and zoning controls.

4. Advanced HVAC Technologies and Smart Controls

• Implement Building Management Systems (BMS) and IoT-based HVAC monitoring.
• Utilize artificial intelligence (AI) for predictive HVAC control.
• Explore smart thermostats, occupancy sensors, and remote energy monitoring.

5. Renewable Energy Integration in HVAC Systems

• Integrate solar PV and solar thermal for HVAC power supply.
• Utilize geothermal heat pump systems for sustainable heating and cooling.
• Apply waste heat recovery from industrial processes.

6. Compliance with Energy Efficiency Standards

• Ensure compliance with:
• ASHRAE 90.1 (Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings).
• ISO 50001 (Energy Management System Standard).
• LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certification.
• IECC (International Energy Conservation Code).

7. HVAC System Maintenance and Energy Audits

• Develop a preventive and predictive maintenance schedule.
• Use thermal imaging and condition monitoring for HVAC diagnostics.
• Conduct energy audits to identify improvement opportunities.

8. Case Studies and Practical Applications

• Analyze real-world energy efficiency improvements in HVAC systems.
• Participate in hands-on HVAC optimization exercises.
• Develop an HVAC energy efficiency action plan for a facility.

Target Audience

• HVAC engineers and designers
• Facility and energy managers
• Building operations and maintenance teams
• Industrial and commercial HVAC professionals
• Sustainability and environmental compliance officers