Sullivan Town Hall Report. FINAL.4.11sullivannh.weebly.com/uploads/1/6/2/4/16246402/sullivan... · 2018-09-07 · DS3 Construct insulated box at letter drop $75 DS4 Air seal ceiling

March 2015 Sullivan Town Hall

Sullivan Town Hall

Energy Audit March, 2015


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Table of Contents

Pages

A. Executive Summary Introduction 3 Summary of Recommendations 4 Notes and Financial Analysis 5-7 Overview of Energy Use in a Building 8 Insert

B. Historic Utility Consumption Energy Use Index & Summary Analysis 9 Electric Usage 10 Propane Usage 11

C. Description of Existing Conditions Site 12 Occupancy Patterns 13 Degree Days 14

D. Demand Side Loads—Envelope Assessment 15 Peak Heat Losses 16 Schematic Diagram 17 Interpreting Thermographic Images 18 Air Leakage 19-23 How Tight Is Tight? 24 Insert Attic 25 Ceiling & Walls 26-28 Ice Dams 29 Insert Lower Level 30-31

E. Supply Side Equipment 32-34 Replacement Options and Considerations 35-36 Fuel Costs Comparisons 37 Insert

F. Electric Systems 38-40 Lighting 41-42

As an independent energy consultant doing business as Sustainable Energy Education & Demonstrations Services (S.E.E.D.S.), I have prepared this energy audit with the best of intentions to deliver a comprehensive and thoughtful document to assist the Town of Sullivan in making informed decisions regarding energy improvements to their Town Office building. I do not make any warranty, express or implied, or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, apparatus, product, or process disclosed.

Respectfully, Margaret Dillon


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A. Executive Summary

Introduction The objective of an energy audit is to identify energy conservation measures that reduce the net energy con-sumption thereby reducing operating costs. In addition to energy conservation, the evaluations and recom-mendations in this assessment consider occupant comfort and holistic building performance consistent with its functions as office and police department. The information obtained as part of this audit has been used to develop Energy Saving Measures (ESM’s). These ESM’s provide the basis for future building improve-ments and modifying the manner in which the building is operated.

This assessment is in keeping with an ASHRAE Level 2 building audit. The energy audit identifies all appro-priate energy efficiency measures for a facility, and a financial analysis based on implementation costs, oper-ating costs, and estimated savings. The ultimate goal is to identify and estimate the amount to be saved, the amount the measure will cost, and the estimated payback period for each ESM. In addition, the audit dis-cusses any recommended changes to operations and maintenance procedures.

The Sullivan Town Hall received an in-depth field survey consisting of a site-visit that takes into considera-tion the following:

Building Characteristics

Building Use, Function, and Occupancy Patterns

Envelope Systems

Heating Systems

Ventilation

Domestic Hot Water

Lighting

Other Electric Loads

The recommendations in this report are offered in the context of balancing up front costs with the range of benefits from improved performance. Estimates are based on existing and historical patterns, yet remain as estimates for there are many variables which cannot be predicted. The most accurate description of energy modeling I know is: “Energy models are always wrong, but some can be very useful.” It is my sincere hope that this report will be helpful to the Town of Sullivan. The estimated total cost for all energy saving measures is $5,836. Please note these estimates are not contractor quotes. The air sealing in the attic in par-ticular may cost more depending on labor involved. Total estimated first year savings from implementing all recommendations $1,617. Simple pay back would be expected in less than four years.

Current kWh & gallons

Current Costs

Estimated after all ESM's

Estimated 1st year Costs Reduction

Electric 8,651 $1,600 5,611 $1,038 35%

Propane 1,091 $3,768 786 $2,713 28%

Total $5,368 $3,751 30%


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Summary of ESM’s

# ENERGY SAVING MEASURE Project

Cost

Energy Unit

Savings Btu's

Energy Only 1st yr

savings

Simple Payback in Years

10 Year "Savings"

Electric kWh E1 Manage phantom loads $40 56 189,556 $10 4.0 E2 Convert T12's to LED Troffers $905 1972 6,729,222 $355 2.5 E3 Insulate all accessible water pipes $96 93 317,316 $17 5.7

E4 Install daylight sensors on exterior lighting $60 1000 3,412,000 $180 0.3

Total Electric ESM Costs & Savings $1,101 3121 10,648,094 $562 1.9 $5,880

Envelope Improvements: LPG Btu's Dollar Air Sealing "Package"

DS1 Weatherstrip all windows and doors $995 DS2 Air seal and insulate attic access hatch $100 DS3 Construct insulated box at letter drop $75

DS4 Air seal ceiling plane and insulate top plates $2,400 -

Sub Total Air Sealing "Package" $3,570 177 16,160,100 $611 5.8

DS5 Install winter window panels on lower level $400 16 1,460,800 $55 DS6 Install 2” Thermax on exposed found. wall $210 10 913,000 $35 6.1

DS7 Spray foam at rim joists/sill $260 27 2,465,100 $93 2.8

Furnace and Controls: Supply Side

SS1 Programmable Thermostats & Setbacks (3) $180 60 5,478,000 $207 0.9 SS2 Air seal filter cabinet and return ducts $115 17 1,552,100 $59 2.0

SS3 Install return duct from Sheriff's office

Total Fuel ESM Costs and Savings $4,735 307 28,029,100 $1,059 4.5 $11,038

Reduction in fuel energy 28%

Total ESM's $5,836 38,677,194 $1,621 3.6 $16,970

Maintenance and Operations M1 Check filters monthly and replace as needed M2 Open interior doors whenever possible M3 Confirm that bath fans are ducted to the outside


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Notes on ESMs

E1. While some computers and other equipment may need to be kept on, most electronic devices—from coffee makers to printers to televisions—have a ‘trickle’ draw of power which adds up over time, especially if there are 10-15 such devices. Known as ‘phantom loads’ since they draw energy when we are not using them. New ‘smart strips’ have a variety of outlets, wired to allow turning off some devices while keeping other’s powered. Recommendation is to examine everything that is plugged in to each outlet and decide how many, if any, devices need to remain powered 24/7 and purchase the appropriate smart strip for that specific plug load. Importantly, then establish a routine of turning off the strip at the end of every day.

E2. Replace all existing T12 lamps with magnetic ballasts and exit lights with LED’s or HP T8’s with elec-tronic ballasts. (Please refer to page 38 for information on T12 fluorescent lamps.) New LED’s are so effi-cient and bright that even high usage T8 and T5 lamps are being replaced. Their long life will also reduce maintenance costs over time. This can be done with retrofitting existing boxes or installing new fixtures. Light levels were measured and often exceed recommended foot candles per ft2, especially in the meeting room, but with two circuits, half lighting can be achieved with a switch. Contact your utility for a proposal with rebates as some LED products have now been approved for utility rebate programs: Renova, Phillips, and Litetronics. Prices range from $85-$150 per unit which should approximate your installed cost with rebate. LED lamps also now available with rebates for outside lighting. Try single LED tube troffers in the Clerk’s office as a ‘brightness’ trial.

E3. Insulate all accessible water pipes (hot and cold) with minimum R3 foam wraps and tape seam.

E4. Outdoor lighting is desired for security purposes but is not necessary during daylight hours so a photo sensor will turn lamps on only when needed. It is not clear to me how the outside lights are currently con-trolled or operated, but photo sensors as needed remain my recommendation.

DS1-DS4. These actions are all designed to tighten the building envelope reducing heat loss, icicles and ice dams, and improve comfort. They are grouped together because a comprehensive approach has better re-sults. It is also important to note that by tightening the envelope, the thermostat can be set further back at night, increasing savings. Your utility MAY provide some cost sharing on these ESM’s as well so its worth asking. One contractor suggestion, known for his diligence and expertise in air sealing: Don LaTourette of Building Energy Technologies. Expertise, and willingness, is especially important in air sealing an attic with lots of insulation material—it is difficult and nasty work, so its important to hire someone who cares about doing it well.

DS1. All exterior doors leak substantial amounts of air and warrant heavy duty gasket weather stripping and door adjustments for proper closure. The North exit door on lower level may warrant replacement if the above improvements are not effective. Professional window weather-stripping tends to last longer and work more effectively than good intentioned volunteer efforts.

DS2. Basic goal here is to construct an air sealed, insulated container for the drop box with a swing door which will allow easy access but close tightly.

DS3. The goal is to make the hatch part of a continuous air barrier at the ceiling plane with minimum ef-fective R20 insulation board. This can also be part of DS4, but any good insulation contractor will know the best way to tighten and insulate this hatch in this fairly complex access structure.


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Notes continued...

DS4. Ideally, the best approach would be to remove all existing insulation, spray 1” closed cell foam on the back of the gypsum and 4” on the perimeter top plate as a monolithic air, vapor, and R6 thermal barrier followed by blowing 14” aluminum sulfate (Al2(SO4)3) free cellulose for an optimally performing ceiling plane. However, the cost for that upgrade in this attic could be between $8-10,000; a cost not easily justi-fied. The alternate option is wade through the existing fiberglass and surgically air seal all penetrations and interior wall connections and spray 3” closed cell foam on all perimeter top plates. Finally, top with 4” Alu-minum Sulfate free cellulose. This ‘topping’ is commonly done though rarely my recommendation. In this case, it appears to be the only reasonable approach for this attic.

DS5. Considering the infrequent use of the lower level and lack of a thermostat, reducing heat loss is espe-cially important to reduce risk of freezing and condensing surfaces. In addition to weather-stripping the four double hung windows, installing custom fit interior glazing panels is recommended for the winter. It is important that they fit very tightly to eliminate air exfiltration and condensation on the existing window. Insulation panels could also work, but would make for a very dark front office!

DS6: Thermax is a commercial rigid foam board made of polyisocyanurate (R6 per inch) with a foil facing which meets the 15 minute flame barrier code requirement (unlike all other foil faced foam boards). It comes in 4x8 sheets and can be glued directly to the concrete foundation wall for an excellent thermal and moisture barrier.

DS7: In keeping with the goal outlined above, foam sealing/insulating the rim joists of the School Board Meeting Room, from above the dropped sealing will yield some energy savings and reduce risk of moisture issues down the road.

SS1. Turning the thermostat back when the building is not occupied is the most cost effective way to save energy. It is included here as the last step because more aggressive set backs can be used with a tighter building. Easy to use programmable thermostats with manual override and auto returns are recommended as is setting thermostats back as much as reasonable given the outdoor temperature. There is no magic number, since it depends on the performance of the envelope and the outside temperature. Though myths abound and any set back will save money, between six and ten degrees is often appropriate. The more ef-fective the envelope, the further back it can be set with quick returns. Two Ultra Zone options are depicted below with unit on line prices.

SS2. Please refer to the photo and description on page 34.

SS3. Please refer to pages 32-34.

EWT-3102 $136.95 EWT-3707 $59.95


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Component Main Lower Total %

Air Leakage 11,448 6,343 17,792 33.4% Walls 8,649 5,806 14,455 27.2% Ceiling 6,949 6,949 13.1% Windows 6,195 1,191 7,386 13.9% Doors 1,991 2,205 4,196 7.9%

Slab 2,463 2,463 4.6%

Totals 35,232 18,008 53,240 100%


Air Leakage 153 64 217 31.4% Walls 115 70 185 26.8% Ceiling 93 93 13.5% Windows 83 16 120 17.4% Doors 27 29 56 8.1%

Slab 20 20 2.9%

Totals 471 199 691 100%

Existing Electric After ESM's

Year

Projected elec cost at 1% yr.

Cumulative Elec Costs

Projected elec cost at 1% yr.

Cumulative Elec Costs

Total Savings

1 $1,600 $1,600 $1,038 $1,038 $562 2 $1,616 $3,216 $1,048 $2,086 $1,130 3 $1,632 $4,848 $1,059 $3,145 $1,703 4 $1,648 $6,497 $1,069 $4,215 $2,282 5 $1,665 $8,162 $1,080 $5,295 $2,867 6 $1,682 $9,843 $1,091 $6,386 $3,457 7 $1,698 $11,542 $1,102 $7,488 $4,054 8 $1,715 $13,257 $1,113 $8,601 $4,657 9 $1,733 $14,990 $1,124 $9,725 $5,265 10 $1,750 $16,740 $1,135 $10,860 $5,880

Financial Analysis

The charts to the right show a com-parison of annual costs between existing annual usage and predicted costs after all recommendations have been implemented. Both elec-tric (top) and fuel (bottom) assume a 1% annual increase.

Usage, of course, varies each year with both energy sources, but costs will also likely vary—often increas-ing more than 1% one year and per-haps decreasing another year. Still, we often make decisions based on “predicted outcomes” even when we can’t control all or even any of the variables. So the charts are of-fered as a reasonable scenario.

The two charts below reflect the improved performance of the enve-lope load or demand. A detailed explanation of these numbers can be found on page 15 as part of the as-sessment of existing conditions. These improved conditions are in-cluded here as part of the financial benefits. When it’s time to replace the furnace, these numbers will have meaningful value.

The total estimated savings from both electric and heating fuel is $1,621, as noted on page four.

Existing Fuel Costs After ESM's

Year

Projected fuel cost at 1% yr. increase

Cumulative Fuel Costs

Projected fuel costs at 1% yr. increase

Cumulative Fuel Costs

Total Savings

1 $3,768 $3,768 $2,713 $2,713 $1,055 2 $3,806 $7,574 $2,740 $5,453 $2,121 3 $3,844 $11,417 $2,768 $8,221 $3,197 4 $3,882 $15,300 $2,795 $11,016 $4,284 5 $3,921 $19,221 $2,823 $13,839 $5,382 6 $3,960 $23,181 $2,851 $16,690 $6,490 7 $4,000 $27,181 $2,880 $19,570 $7,610 8 $4,040 $31,220 $2,909 $22,479 $8,741 9 $4,080 $35,301 $2,938 $25,417 $9,884 10 $4,121 $39,422 $2,967 $28,384 $11,038


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There are three general areas of energy use in most NH buildings:

1. Space heating (and cooling)

2. Lights, (usually dominates) Appliances, and Electronic Devices

3. Hot Water Heating (usually minimal in office buildings)

In cold climates such as NH, energy used for space heating is often the ‘dominant load’ or the use that re-quires the most energy and dollar costs. As fuel costs are likely to increase at a faster rate than electricity, re-ducing fuel use is analyzed thoroughly in this report.

To assess the space heating load, or energy used to heat a building in the winter, there are two primary factors: the demand, related to heat loss through the envelope and occupancy patterns, and the supply, related to equipment and distribution.

1. The Envelope or Enclosure—Demand Side

Demand for heating energy is mostly based on the effective performance of the envelope (also called shell or enclosure). The overall goal of the envelope is to effectively manage moisture while limiting air movement and heat transfer. This is done by specific materials or collection of materials to serve as control layers of the assembly.

An effective envelope will have continuous and effective levels of insulation which are installed in direct con-tact with a continuous air barrier. In order to establish an air barrier—to limit outside air flow through the building—it is critical to first reduce interior moisture loads.

Water is one of the two mortal enemies of buildings. Both water and fire can kill a building, water just takes longer. Water enters a building in four ways: Bulk liquid water by gravity (rain or groundwater), or capillarity (which can move up, sideways, or downwards) and water vapor, which can be transported by air or diffusion. Plastic vapor retarders or barriers in walls are designed to stop water vapor migration by diffusion. This kind of control layer gets a lot of attention, and yet the amount of water than can get into a wall assembly by diffu-sion is so small it is usually insignificant. Bulk water and air transported vapor are of primary concern. There-fore to protect a building from moisture, attention should be placed on effective drainage, flashing, capillary breaks, sealing foundation walls, dirt floors in basements and crawlspaces, and a continuous air barrier around the shell.

2. Heating equipment—Supply Side

-A boiler or furnace is used to generate enough heat (in Btu’s) to replace what is lost to the outside through the enclosure as heat moves to cold via conduction, convection, and radiation. The more efficient the equipment, the less energy used. But the better the envelope, the less the efficiency of the equipment becomes a factor. Alternately, the poorer the envelope, the more important the efficiency of the equipment—because, in part, it runs more often.

- The distribution system—this is the system which moves heated air or water through a building and can offer different opportunities for improvements. Most importantly, the distribution system should be in-side the enclosure to limit losses to the outside.

- Controls—thermostat controls and balancing air flow with communicating zoning dampers.

Overview of Energy Use in a Building


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The energy analysis above is based on the energy data provided during the site visit. Electric and propane usage reflects the average use over the two year period of 2013 and 2014.

This offers a very simple snapshot analysis of a building’s energy use by looking at total amount of energy input (converted to Btu’s) divided by the floor area of conditioned space. Based on the information provid-ed and an estimated floor area of 4,800 sq ft, the Town Office building’s Energy Utilization Index (EUI) averages to be 26.9Kbtu/ft2 for site energy, and 66KBtu/ft2 for source energy, at a total cost of $1.12 per ft2. This is a lower energy intensity than the average range for NH town offices suggesting that there may be fewer “low hanging fruit” opportunities than a building with a much higher energy EUI.

Site usage refers to the actual amount of energy used on site in kWh. Source energy includes transmission and some allowance for off site generation. Source energy is used to equal the playing field when comparing electrical consumption with on site combustion fuel energy and to better reflect GHG emissions when con-sidering off site generation.

Heating fuel use is determined by six factors. This report looks at all six factors while focusing on those with the greatest potential for reducing energy consumption.

1) Outdoor temperature

2) Indoor thermostat settings

3) Heat losses to the outside through the shell or thermal envelope

4) Efficiency of the equipment and

5) Efficiency of the distribution systems

6) Other occupant behavior

Energy Utilization Index and Analysis Summary

Energy Use Quantity Annual

Consumption (Btu's)

Annual Source

Consumption

Percent of Total

Consumption

Annual Cost

Percentage of

Total Cost

CO2 Emissions

Lbs

Heating: LP gallons 1091 99,608,300 114,549,545 77% $3,768 70% 13,474 Electric: kWh 8651 29,515,506 202,181,216 23% $1,600 30% 25,804

Totals: 129,123,806 316,730,761 100% $5,368 100% 39,278

Site & Source EUI 26.9 66.0 Kbtu/ft2 $1.12 per ft2

Over 77% of the building’s energy is used for space heat-ing, as electricity is used to run the blower on the forced warm air fan.

B. Historic Energy Consumption


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2013

Electric Consumption

(kWh) Demand Cost

January 588 3.3 $114.97 February 710 3.3 $133.35

March 670 4.1 $128.28 April 610 3.1 $120.65

May 630 3.6 $123.18 June 758 3.3 $136.06

July 671 3.7 $118.33 August 770 3.7 $134.00

September 780 4.2 $135.16 October 860 4.1 $144.33

November 750 3.6 $131.72 December 825 3.6 $146.02

Totals: 8,622 $1,566.05

2014

Electric Consumption

(kWh) Demand Cost

January 665 3.8 $121.60 February 660 3.7 $126.69

March 730 3.4 $135.28 April 720 3.6 $134.07

May 740 3.8 $136.51 June 780 3.1 $147.12

July 700 4.1 $126.20 August 700 3.4 $131.89

September 800 3.4 $144.24 October 680 3.8 $129.41

November 740 3.1 $136.82 December 764 3.7 $142.84

Totals: 8,679 $1,613

The base monthly electric consumption is about 600 kWh (red line). Base consumption refers to basic lights and equipment without seasonal loads such as air con-ditioning (cooling or heating). Note that readings are actually taken mid month, so the peak periods were from mid August through December.

Two years electric usage

Total usage was very similar in 2014, however with a slightly higher base (670kWh) and slightly different peak patterns. More electricity was used in the spring but less in the generally cooler 2014 summer.

The monthly average ranged from 718 to 723kWh’s.


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2013

Propane Consumption

(gallons) Cost

January 125 $401

February 220 $638 March 275 $807

April 0 $0 May 0 $0

June 0 $0 July 0 $0

August 0 $0 September 0 $0

October 243 $747 November 0 $0

December 275 $944

Totals: 1,138 $3,537

2014

Propane Consumption

(gallons) Cost

January 126 $401

February 400 $1,706 March 0 $0

April 0 $200 May 0 $0

June 0 $0 July 0 $0

August 0 $0 September 0 $0

October 243 $747 November 0 $0

December 275 $944

Totals: 1,044 $3,998

Two years propane usage


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C. Descriptions of Existing Conditions

Site

The town offices are located off Centre Street in the village of Sullivan.

Built in 1996 into a hill, there are street level entrances to the Town Offices from the parking lot to the west and from the road to the south. The lower level of the building walks out to a large parking lot on the East. This level currently serves as a meeting room for the School Board and the Sheriff’s office. It also houses a records room, emergency office, and furnace room.

North

South

East West

43º00’47.23”N 72º13’12.89”W Elevation 1417 feet

With mature trees to the south and a north-south roof ridge, the building does not offer ideal conditions for roof top solar. The field to the north side of the building has very potential for stand alone solar V ar-ray. good solar PV potential. The roof ridge runs north south, with north side is slab on grade, giving the police station floor level access from the parking lot.

Deciduous trees surround the east, south, and west side of the structure, leaving the two story north facing side fully exposed.

West facing

East facing

South facing

North facing


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Base Year (2013) Comparison Year (2014) Comparison Percentages

Month HDD CDD TDD HDD CDD TDD HDD CDD TDD

January 1116 0 1116 1230 0 1230 10% 10% February 946 0 946 1108 0 1108 17% 17% March 839 0 839 1036 0 1036 23% 23% April 456 3 459 447 0 447 -1% -2% May 163 67 230 145 45 190 -11% -32% -17% June 20 191 211 3 167 170 -12% -19% July 0 429 429 0 320 320 -25% -25% August 0 219 219 1 180 181 -17% -17% September 104 78 182 92 106 198 -11% 35% 8% October 327 8 335 275 20 295 -15% -11% November 720 0 720 719 0 719 0% 0%

December 1056 0 1056 867 0 867 -17% -17%

Totals 5747 995 6742 5923 838 6761 3% -16% 0%

Comparing 2013 and 2014 Degree Days

Degree days are based on the average temperature over a 24 hour period. There are two ways to calculate heating or cooling degree days but the most common is to average a day’s high and low temperature, then subtract that from “base temp” such as 65 degrees, or when a heating system might call for heat.

This can be considered a “quick and dirty” way to get a snapshot of a season’s weather, as more detailed weather data provides greater accuracy in predicting heating and cooling energy needs. However, it is ade-quate for this purpose which is to get a general comparison of 2013 vs 2014.

Generally speaking, 2013 appears to have been slightly warmer in both winter and summer, from 2014.

From this information, it appears that differences in outdoor temperature alone would not have ac-counted for the slight differences in electricity usage in those two years. Occupancy patterns, behavior and differing lights or appliance use are also likely variables.

Propane usage is in direct contrast to the weather data, suggesting more strongly that occupant behavior, or perhaps servicing the furnace reduced propane usage in the slightly cooler 2014 heating season. Pro-pane delivery dates may also contribute to the appearance of increased fuel use.


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Occupancy Patterns—

Time Monday Tuesday Wed Thurs Friday Sat Sun 7am 8am 9am 10am 11am NOON 1PM 2PM 3PM 4PM 5PM 6PM 7PM 8PM 9PM 10PM 11PM MIDNIGHT 1am 2am 3am 4am 5am 6am

The hours listed that the top floor of the Town offices are open to the public totals 15 hours a week. The building is also occupied at various times, for a few hours in the evening throughout each month for an esti-mated weekly average of about 25 hours a week in one room or another (darker shades). The lower level has a far lower occupancy. The School Board meets once a month for a few hours and the Sheriff uses his office sporadically for an unknown amount of hours. The water was off and toilet empty during the site visit, pre-sumably to prevent frozen pipes.

For purposes of this study, it is presumed that the upper level building is occupied less than 30 hours each week or about 1560 hours each year, about half of which during the heating season. The purpose of the above chart is to visually demonstrate that while the building is heated throughout the winter and the ther-mostat kept at 65º (and occasionally higher), it is occupied by people less than 18% of the time. Most of the remaining 138 hours are during the weekends at night when the building does not need maintain tempera-tures for human comfort. Installing programmable thermostats which will work with the Ultra Zone system can optimize savings by following occupancy patterns in each zone. After implementing envelope improve-ments (which will result in the building losing heat less quickly), thermostats may be able to be set back to 50 during nights and weekends, and programmed to come back on an hour before people arrive. It is important to experiment, cautiously—to optimize lower settings without risk to pipes or condensing surfaces.

The nighttime hours tend to be the coldest hours of each 24 hour period in the winter—and coolest in the summer as well. Therefore winter thermostat settings at nighttime tend to offer some of the best energy re-duction opportunities.


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D. Demand Side Loads: Envelope Assessment

The thermal envelope of a building refers to the control layers of the shell which manage heat transfer, air, and moisture. These control layers include insulation, an air barrier (made up of a variety of materials) and a variety of strategies for water and vapor control. It is the effective performance of the thermal and air con-trol layers which is the primary factor in determining how much energy is required for space heating in a particular region. This is referred to as heating demand or heating load and is based on how much heat is lost to the outside. Energy needed to supplement cooling and humidity control is also in part determined by the thermal envelope. The total heating load includes losses from the heating and distribution systems.

A peak heat loss calculation is used to determine the size of the heating equipment needed in a building. It assesses each component of the thermal envelopment and calculates how much heat would be lost during one of the coldest hours of a winter in a particular region. The chart on the next page breaks down the cal-culated peak heat loss for each room by the assessed thermal performance of each envelope component.

All of these numbers are the analysis tools used to assess a building’s energy performance, size equipment, and develop improvement measures with predicted future energy savings. The two charts below summarize the demand in terms of Btu’s per hour and the overall conductivity of the building or “UA”.

In the top chart below, the total peak heat loss is shown in terms of Btu’s lost in one hour based on a design delta T. Based on this analysis, air leakage accounts for over 35% of heat loss.

It is somewhat misleading in the fact that windows appear to account for less than 14% of heat loss, but most of the air leakage comes from around the windows and doors. This is because air leakage refers to con-vective heat transfer and the others are based on conductive heat transfer. Suffice it to say that buildings are dynamic systems and understanding—and predicting– its thermodynamics are not easily shown in a chart.


Air Leakage 16,355 7,032 23,387 35.8% Walls 8,649 6,079 14,728 22.6% Ceiling 11,480 11,480 17.6% Windows 7,132 1,905 9,037 13.8% Doors 1,991 2,205 4,196 6.4%

Slab 2,463 2,463 3.8%

Totals 45,607 19,684 65,291 100.0%


Air Leakage 219 96 315 36.9% Walls 115 74 189 22.2%

Ceiling 153 153 17.9% Windows 95 25 120 14.1%

Doors 27 29 56 6.6%

Slab 20 20 2.3%

Totals 609 244 853 100.0%

The conclusion of this assessment, however, is that the two most cost effective improvement measures involve:

-Air Sealing windows, doors, and the ceiling plane

-Upgrading insulation in the ceiling and founda-tion

These estimates are presumed reasonable because when run through an analysis of estimated HVAC efficiencies and actual heating degree days for the past two years, and adjusting for the colder indoor temperatures in the basement, the predicted fuel use came within 2% of actual fuel use. With enve-lope improvements, and a reduced demand, addi-tional energy savings can be achieved through im-proved controls and nighttime thermostat set-backs.


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Peak Heat Loss Calculation for Existing Conditions

Walls Windows Doors Ceiling Fnd ACH TOTAL %

Main Floor Entry & Closet 818 493 900 875 2317 5,403 8.3%

Restroom 988 347 225 361 1,921 2.9% Restroom 178 347 208 259 992 1.5%

Clerk's Office 479 694 751 1197 3,121 4.8% Bookkeeping 1225 347 750 1203 3,525 5.4%

Administrative Assistant 1063 694 1431 2293 5,481 8.4% Select Board 1113 694 655 1051 3,513 5.4%

Meeting Room 2787 3514 1091 6585 7674 21,651 33.2%

Main Level Totals 8,651 7,130 1,991 11,480 16,355 45,607

% of whole building 19.0% 15.6% 4.4% 25.2% 0.0% 35.9% 100.0%

Lower Floor School Board 1610 315 1125 754 2443 6247 9.6% File Room 915 223 376 1514 2.3% Hall 240 600 56 324 1220 1.9% Furnace 375 300 389 1064 1.6% Restroom 0 55 89 144 0.2% Emergency 661 315 200 311 1487 2.3% Sherriff's 2278 1275 480 875 3101 8009 12.3%

Lower Level Totals 6,079 1,905 2,205 2,463 7,033 19,685

% of whole building 30.9% 9.7% 11.2% 0.0% 12.5% 35.7% 100.0%

TOTAL BUILDING 14,730 9,035 4,196 11,480 2,463 23,388 65,292 100%

TOTAL RATIOS 22.6% 13.8% 6.4% 17.6% 3.8% 35.8% 100.0%

Conductive heat loss is determined by surface area, conductivity of the material (or assembly), and the dif-ference in temperature between inside and outside. In this case, the “design temperature” is based on a zero degree outdoor temperature with an indoor temperature of 75 degrees—therefore a delta T (∆T) of 75 degrees. Based on the envelope assessment, the total heat lost to the outside during one hour when its zero degrees outside is just over a calculated 65,000 Btu’s. The last column reflects a room’s heat loss rela-tive to the building as a whole. The bottom lines reflect heat loss proportioned by envelope component.

This is a very simple approach to energy analysis but valuable in terms of presenting a general snap shot for prioritizing primary improvement opportunities. This is also helpful in selecting and sizing replace-ment heating equipment when the time comes.

The next page offers a schematic diagram of both floors with room by room peak heat losses and existing lighting fixtures.


17

21,651 Btu/hr

Meeting Room

Administrative Assistant

5,481 Btu/hr 3,513 Btu/hr 5,403 Btu/hr 1,921 Btu/hr

992Btu/hr

3,121 Btu/hr

3,525 Btu/hr

1,514 Btu/hr

6,247 Btu/hr

1,064 Btu/hr

File Room

School Board

Sherriff's Office

8,009 Btu/hr

Emergency Ser-

1,487 Btu/hr

Furnace WC

Below Grade Foundation Wall Above Grade Framed Wall

Lights: 22 x (2) T12 40 watts on two circuits, alternating fixtures

144 Btu/hr

Hall 1,220 Btu/hr

Clerk’s Office

Bookkeeping


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Interpreting Thermographic (Infra Red) Images

Thermographic, or infra red images depict differences in surface tem-peratures only. The hand ‘heat signature’ on the image to the right was taken a few seconds before the photo of the same wall area below—and after placing my hand for a few seconds on the wall, thereby al-lowing my body heat to conduct to the 62 degree wall surface. Recog-nizable shapes, such as chairs or windows, are visible only because sur-face areas emit different temperatures that surrounding areas. The camera used is a high resolution (240x360) Monroe HR, black and white scanner and images were colorized without any adjustments us-ing IR DAQ software. Areas which are brighter depict warmer surface temperatures than darker areas. The camera is extremely sensitive so temperature differences of 1 degree can appear with contrast tones. Thermography can be a very helpful tool in building diagnostics, espe-cially in assessing the performance of the thermal envelope, as its used for this report.

Bright colors indicate warmer surface temperatures and darker indicate cooler surface temps. Dark verti-cal lines, therefore, often indicate studs which con-duct heat more rapidly than an insulated cavity. Note how much cooler it is near the floor, as warm air rises—both in the room, but also in a fiberglass filled cavity where “convective looping” can contrib-ute to cooler floors.

Top plates and corners are often colder because of multiple vertical studs or strapping, and because heat doesn't effectively transfer to corner surface areas.

Exterior infra red scans can be helpful, though more difficult to interpret since wind, moisture, snow or sun can impact the surface temperature. IR of this roof simply mirrors easier to read snow melt pat-terns. Closer right, on the shaded north side, bright spots can help identify duct locations or missing insulation.

Heat from elec-tricity reports an Outside light on during the day


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Air Leakage: Doors

Arrows point to outdoor air infiltration or ‘wind washing’ causing discomfort and increased fuel usage in the winter and contribute to summer heating. Effective weather-stripping will reduce or eliminate air infiltration, though great care must be taken to create an effective seal, yet not interfere with opening and closing—especially with double doors. While it is a tempting ‘DYI’ project, it is usually worthwhile to higher a profes-sional who will guarantee the outcome.

Also note the amount of fixed glazing surface area at both entrances which provide great daylight and some view, but no fresh air. Adding air tight interior glazing panes at the fixed lites around the meeting room doors will reduce conductive heat losses more cost effectively than replacing with double pane glass, thereby minimizing the energy penalty of single pane glass lites.


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Air Leakage: Doors

Sometimes it may make more sense to replace a door instead of adding weather-stripping. This may be the case with the metal door above, though the recommendation is to try effective weather-stripping first.


21

Air Leakage: Windows

Windows are typically the weakest link in the thermal boundary. Not only is glass the most conductive sur-face, but offers radiative heat loss and gains, and all perimeter edges—as well as the rough opening– will leak air unless designed or retrofitted to stop air.

In addition to perimeter leakage, glass simply conducts heat very rapidly, even two panes of glass with an air space in between. Add-ing a third pane on the interior as an air tight “interior glazing panel” reduces air infiltration while creat-ing a warmer interior surface. Though it is a seasonal remedy for windows that are opened in the spring-fall, they are recommended for this ground floor, under heated, minimally occupied Sheriff's space.


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Air Leakage: Windows

Cold, denser air dropping—this win-dow may need more than just weather stripping.


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Air Leakage:

Other sources of air leakage occur through electrical outlets and light switches, as well as around the attic access hatch. Because the hatch is in the ceiling plane, sealing its perimeter will reduce air leakage through gaps and cracks lower in the walls, windows and by the floor. Therefore it is a high priority.

This open basket is presumably to catch items put through the wall slot, which is a source of heat loss and cold air infiltra-tion. Imagine an insulated box with a hinged door replacing this basket.

“Wind washing” through gap between hatch and frame.


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Building Tightness Insert

Town offices

Some areas below grade


25

Attic

There is a substantial amount of fiberglass insulation above the ceiling, though rarely in contact with an air barrier so its performance is diminished by 30-60%. The access hatch allows a lot of warm air to exfiltrate as well as cold air dropping into the closet. While labor intensive and awkward to implement, air sealing the sealing plane (including all interior walls and wire penetrations), and the perimeter of the top plate is rec-ommended.

The best practice would be to remove the existing fiberglass, air seal the sealing plane, spray 3-4” of closed cell phone over the perimeter top plate and then blow in 16” of a good quality cellulose, with no aluminum sulfates (borates only). This is by far the best strategy for optimal performance, however hard to justify by savings alone due to the labor removing the existing material. IF, however, the town has a volunteer labor force who could bag up the fiberglass and leave a clean structure for the insulation contractor, the town would not only have a better insulation job, but save on the air sealing costs. It takes a lot more time and effort to wade through all of this material. Please note that conducting comprehensive air sealing before insulation is of minimal upfront expense and optimal benefit.


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Ceiling and Walls

The above IR image depicts a fairly complete story of the upper level’s thermal envelope. While the ‘short story’ is often: “R30 ceiling and R19 walls”, we can see from varying surface temperatures that the insula-tion in the ceiling is not in contact with an air barrier and that the wood framing (approx. 18% at R6+) and windows (15% of wall surface area at estimated R2.8) account for about 33% of that ’R19” wall. And we can see that the R2.8 windows are allowing considerable air infiltration which accounts for approximately 30% of the rooms heat loss and even greater impact on comfort. So the “R-value” of the insulation only tells a part of the story, and when a low density insulation such as fiberglass is not in direct contact with an air barrier on all six sides, its effective performance is further diminished. The effective R value of these opaque walls is an estimated R15, including drywall and sheathing. A

We can also see that the R2.8 (u=.35) windows are allowing considerable air infiltration which accounts for approximately 30% of the rooms heat loss and even greater impact on comfort. Note there are two visible sources of heat: warm air from the heating duct under the far window and the heating radiating from the electric resistance coil in the water heater/dispenser.

In this case, weather-stripping windows and air sealing the perimeter top plate above the ceiling are two relatively cost effective envelope improvement strategies and included in the recommendations.


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Ceiling

Air sealing above the ceiling will be labor intensive and challenging due to the amount of insulation material that is in place. However, fiberglass can act as a good insulator because of all the air trapped between ‘glass fibers’. When not installed in contact with an air barri-er, it acts as a better filter than insulator.

Note the dark streaks above the wall in the top left image. That is the impact of cold outside air from the soffit vents as it cools and flows by the ceiling joists. The other dark lines are the result of air moving through the gap created by the strapping that was in-stalled to make it easier to put up the sheetrock.

Spraying 3-4” of closed cell foam over the top plates, up to ‘propa vents’ will not only improve the effective R-value at that critical roof/wall connection, but stop outside air from creating "thermal by passes” in the ceiling—ie all those dark lines of coolth. Establishing a robust and continuous air barrier at the ceiling plane is the first priority for reducing heat loss and the best solution for reducing or eliminating icicles/ice dams.

The reasons for this long explanation: 1) because the cost of the labor intensive air sealing extends the ideal cost benefit time frame and 2) to encourage the practice of always air sealing before adding insulation. It adds a little cost at the time but will be far more expensive going back to do it later.


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More images of thermal by-passes in the ceiling


29

Ice Dams—General Insert

The only way to effectively or nearly eliminate ice dams and other moisture related damage, while also not wasting copious amounts of energy, is to prevent warmed, conditioned, air from rising to the underside of the roof and improve insulation levels to reduce conduction as warmth of conditioned surfaces con-ducts to colder surfaces of the framing and roof. Air sealing and super insulating can also effect a cold roof (ie not heated from inside), with or without venting. To be clear, the BEST approach is to effect a continu-ous air barrier, install effective layers of insulation—AND vent the roof with outside air. Again, insulation values above the top plate should exceed values of the wall below.

But if you are going to vent—vent adequately and let the same or more air in at the soffit or ‘down low’ than will exhaust out a ridge vent or ‘up higher.’ Creating a bigger hole at the top runs the risk of depressurizing the attic which invites conditioned air to balance.

If you can’t vent effectively, then the target needs to be to achieve an effective and minimum R40 at the roof with little or no thermal bridging. This can be a challenge but is critical to prevent warming of the un-derside and keeping the sheathing dry.

A plethora of helpful ice dam graphics from the web….


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Lower Level: Select Board Meeting Room

Exterior framed walls have 5.5” fiberglass batts. Wall framing on the inside of the concrete foundation wall is 2x4, with presumably 3.5” fiberglass batts and a vapor impermeable liner. In hole in the wall, the plastic is on the inside, “warm side’ of the wall as required by code. It is not known where it is on the foundation wall but if on the interior, there is a still a chance condensation could form from warm moist air migrating through framing gaps near the sill or migrating by diffusion through the concrete. There was no visible evi-dence of moisture issues during the site visit; it is merely noted here to be aware of possible risk.

There are considerable thermal bypasses in the corner near the electrical panel as cold air wash-es through the unsealed electric service entrance.

A small screwed plate can be removed to verify insulation and air movement within this double wall void.


31

Lower Level: File Storage Room

The walls of the file room are presumably insulated with 3.5” fiberglass batts but not insulated or sealed at the rim joists. Humid-ity is controlled by a dehumidifier which runs all summer, draining into the condensate drain for the furnace on the other side of the wall. Floor shows signs of efflo-rescence, or salts remaining be-hind after evaporation of mois-ture from soils.


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E. Supply Side—Heating Equipment

Space Heating is supplied by a propane fired, high efficiency, con-densing, forced warm air furnace, with fan assisted venting, made by Goodman, Model GMPN 120-5. Based on the serial number - 9603802481 - the furnace was built in March, 1996—so is 19 years old this month. The original AFUE rating was 92%, though it has likely reduced to the mid to upper 80’s. The service life of this type of fur-nace can range from 15-25 years. Replacement may be advisable in the near term, so planning for replacement is recommended.

According to internet research, the GMPN series are single stage fur-naces. A single stage furnace is the least expensive and means the burner and blower has one "on" stage. A two stage or dual stage furnace has electronic controls that allows the burner flame and burn-er to be on at a high and a low setting, depending on the level of heat required. The modulating furnace has electronic controls for the burner and blower motor that allows very fine adjustments to the burner setting and blower motor speed and modulates them to always keep the temperature of the room close to the thermostat setting.

At some point, controlled dampers were installed to create three heat-ing zones, each with its own thermostat with Ultra-Zone electronic controls system. When a thermostat calls for heat, a damper is opened to allow warm air flow to that zone.

To function effectively and efficiently, forced warm air systems need to have a balanced flow of air through the ducts: ie the same amount of warmed supply air should return to the furnace to be re-heated to pre-vent pressure differentials in the ducts and the building. Ducted air systems can be successfully zoned, however balancing the air flow needs to be carefully designed. Zoning properly requires communi-cating equipment, as airflow to match equipment size and zone load is key to efficient, quiet comfort. Imbalance air flow can shortening equipment useful life, increase maintenance and reduce efficiency. Consensus among heating contractors is very rare, however many seem to agree that zoned air systems are best attempted with a dual stage furnace and may need to include a bypass or crossover duct with a barometric damper in the interest of reducing pressure differentials.

Manually controlled thermostats trigger the burner, blower fan, and electronic damper.


33

These diagrams, cut and pasted from the internet, are included as a reference to the fundamentals of a condensing furnace and a ducted air distribution system.

Simply put, a condensing furnace is more efficient because it has a secondary heat exchanger to ex-tract additional (latent) heat, thereby reducing the temperature of the flue gasses.

The most efficient condensing furnaces also have dual stage controls on the burner and blower, with ECM, variable speed motors, to modulate both the amount of heat energy needed and how much warmed air needs to be delivered to a space.

Another aspect of a ducted air system which all furnaces share is the opportunity to filter the air being distributed. This can help improve air quality, but as the filter becomes clogged with debris, the flow of air returned to the furnace is reduced, thereby creating an imbalance. Good quality high efficiency furnaces, properly installed and main-tained have air sealed ducts, filter cabinets, and reg-ularly replaced filters.

The bottom diagram depicts a fairly typical, low installed cost, duct layout. Note there appears to be one return plenum and register and six supply reg-isters off a main supply plenum with branching ducts. (Areas added) This works as long as the size of the return plenum equals the sum total size of the supply plenums and all spaces in the building are open to the location of the one return register.

But if doors are closed, or—as in the case of the Town Hall—an entire floor is separated off—

then the supply and return air flow is imbalanced leading to comfort issues as well as pressure differ-ential issues.

The best working ducted air systems have return ducts in every room there is a supply duct. This is more expensive to install but easier to balance air flow, provides more reliable comfort, and can be optimally energy efficient.

Filter


34

Duct sealing and filter maintenance

The photo to the right is the air filter as found on the day of the site visit. Note the amount of dust and dirt, essentially restrict-ing air flow back to the furnace for re-heating. Also note that the filter is not sealed into the cabi-net—in fact it doesn’t fit entirely in the cabinet. This means the blower fan is ’sucking’ air from the furnace room into the ducts—including any contaminants associated with water conditioning or other materials—and depressurizing the furnace room. This is less of a concern with a fan boosted venting system for flue gasses, but can also contribute to air quality issues.

Heating systems often undergo ‘modifications’ over time to correct or adjust as issues evolve over time. The cutting into this supply trunk in the furnace room may have been an attempt to correct for depressuri-zation or to add some more heat to the uninsulated water pipes.

Heating zones at the Town Offices

The diagrams on the next page indicate the three heating zones and general location of supply and return registers. Evidently, the lower level and the administrator’s office (at least) are on the same heating zone and the thermostat was originally located in the present sheriff's office—which, based on the site visit inspec-tion—does not have a return air duct. The result was the Sherriff's office tended to overheat while the of-fice above was very cold. The upstairs situation was greatly improved after re-locating the thermostat up-stairs. The Sherriff's office can get very cold now, but evidently it is only sporadically occupied and doesn’t appear to be a problem. Still, there is currently no thermostat on the lower level which could become a sig-nificant problem should that space ever be used on a regular, or more frequent basis. When heat is deliv-ered to the rooms downstairs, without a ducted return or even pathway back to the furnace, the rooms tend to pressurize which increases exfiltration of conditioned air. This also happens in the Selectmen’s and As-sessor’s Offices when their doors are closed to the Meeting Room and Reception Area.

The combustion make up air is presumably bringing in outside air, which may have been another reason to add direct supply whenev-er the burner is on.

old

Needs to be replaced


35

Heating System Replacement Options & Considerations

As noted earlier, the warm air furnace and duct work is 19 years old and replacement will likely be necessary at some point within the next ten years for one or two reasons: 1) it stops working and either cannot be re-paired or the costs won’t be warranted 2) the cost of oil increases to the point that the efficiency and effica-cy of the existing furnace warrants replacing with a more efficient system.

The conventional replacement strategy is often to wait until replacement is recommended by one’s service contractor and replace with a similar type and size. If that recommendation happens in the winter (typical), then the selection is based on whatever is readily available—and limited to that one contractor’s knowledge (including personal biases and product familiarity). Second opinions can be sought, just as before preparing for a surgery or anything else, but often doesn’t happen.

The alternative is to research the options and plan in advance. If there is a level of trust and loyalty to an existing service provider, then they can be invited into that research and planning, however the same limita-tions will apply. This is relevant because heating (and cooling and ventilation) technologies have evolved substantially over the last ten years, but the resistance to seek second opinions have allowed many heating and cooling contractors to continue with ‘business as usual’. This is particularly relevant when it comes to “energy efficient” equipment because energy efficiency is a relative phrase. If someone calls something “energy efficient” - be it a building or a piece of equipment—what they are really saying is, ‘at this point in time, this is more efficient than what has been used before to do the same task’. It may also be tied to some sense of ’upfront cost or investment’ vs ongoing operation costs—ie “its efficient enough based on what a client may want to spend now”.

Please note this way of thinking is both conventional and valid. However, it is also valid to consider that the way we think about energy in the 21st century may be radically different, and more complex, than ever before. A further complexity is that a Town’s Select Board, Energy Committee, and Voters will likely be comprised of many different attitudes and opinions around energy, including but not limited to the true costs associated with burning fossil fuels. Therefore making a decision about balancing upfront costs with long term costs will be based on a range of factors beyond what is possible for one energy auditor to con-sider.

Therefore, the following are some of the current heating replacement options to consider; which one is the ‘best’ option will be depend not only a cost analysis but on the interests and values of the good people of Sullivan.

1. Maintain a propane fired ducted warm air system. A reasonable upgrade to the ‘as is’ system would be a two phased, sealed combustion modulating furnace and revisiting the duct work to add return air path-ways as possible. This would be the lowest upfront cost with improved comfort and efficiency. Consid-er installing vented space heaters in the lower level to supplement those spaces when occupied.

2. Convert to a hydronic system—ie a hot water. Replace the furnace and duct work with a wall hung, propane fired, fully modulating, condensing hot water heater with a home run distribution system with individually valve controlled large baseboards or panel radiators designed to operate year round in con-densing mode—it with return water temperature at or below 140 degrees. This could cost between $10-20,000 but provide optimal room controls and efficiency (up to 97%)for a combustion appliance.


36

3. Consider heating needs of neighboring buildings and install a wood fired central heating plant—with baseboard hydronic system. This would cost far more to install and not be as efficient (80-85% season-al efficiency overall) as #2, but it would remove on site (in building) combustion and convert to a ’carbon neutral’ and locally available fuel source. A well designed hydronic distribution system would offer the same comfort and controls as the propane fired condensing heater, but at higher water tem-peratures. “Wood fired” includes wood, wet chips, dried chips, or pellets. Each has there advantages and disadvantages, the latter including more labor and attention than a fossil fuel fire system. At this point and time, pellet boilers offer the most ‘user friendly’ or requiring the least amount of oversight or daily management tasks.

4. Convert to an all electric, heat pump, heating system, which could also provide cooling. Heat pump technology offers, currently, the most efficient use of energy and because they run off electricity, the energy can be offset by on or near site solar PV generation. This is one of the strategies to achieve “Zero Net Energy” and ‘Carbon Neutral” though the embodied energy and carbon in all the equipment is a factor to reckon with. Part of their efficiency is in the fact that they do not generate heat but move (pump) it from one place and temperature to another.

Ground source heat pumps (GHSP), also commonly referred to as ’geothermal’ though technically, geo-thermal is defined by very hot water temperatures found in the west and other specific areas of the world, extract heat from the earth’s relatively stable temperatures and, through compressors and sometimes refrig-erants, move that heat into air or water which is distributed through a building. The relatively stable and warmish temperature of the earth allow up to 400-450% efficient transfer of heat. (ie for every kWh and its 3412 btu’s worth of heat used, over 14,000 btu’s worth of heat can be made available to the water or air.) This is better described by its Coefficient of Performance (COP) which measures the ratio of output to loss as opposed to thermal efficiency which measures the ratio of input to output. So while the heat pump may be rated with a COP of 4.5 distributing that heat through water or air requires additional electricity which reduces the total system efficiency. Research suggests that total system ratings may be closer to COP 3 to 3.5. Heat pumps can also offer very efficient cooling, something that may become more and more desirable or even necessary in the near future.

Ground source heat pumps offer the greatest efficiency now available, but are very complicated systems to engineer the design and to install, requiring three or more contractors (well digger, mechanical, electrical, sheet metals ect) which also adds to the up front costs and risks to a satisfactory end performance. There are also different options to the ’ground well’s’, some of which may pose their own ’impact risks’ to ground-water.

Air source heat pumps (ASHP) move heat from air, via compressors and refrigerant. Because air tempera-ture varies greatly over the year, efficiencies also vary. ASHP’s have been around for 30 years but recent technological advances have put them at the fore front of the ’efficiency, zero net energy, and carbon neu-tral’ movement. They do require some design work, but are a contained system with two main parts (outdoor compressor and indoor “heads” or manifold and ducts and far less complicated to install. Specific ASHP’s, known as Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) or inverter driven, can operate well below zero degrees though at reduced efficiencies and output. Seasonal efficiencies range between COP 2.2 to 3.7.

Without subsidies, ASHP’s are less expensive to install and have fewer risks, but may require back up heat (depending on the performance of the envelope) and are somewhat less efficient than GSHP. If reducing greenhouse gasses is the goal, on or near site renewable generation is necessary.


37

It is not clear to which zone this area belongs.

R R

R

T

T

T

No return found. Thermostat had been located here, the former police station, but was moved upstairs 2014.

Note that even if the lobby entry return is included in this zone, the two doors are usually closed, pre-venting balanced air flow in this area.

It appears that the original duct installation was based on a single zone with three fairly central cool air returns. A re-turn may be located in the “blue zone” but was not found.

No returns found in this side of the lower level.

The red lines below indicate the supply duct that runs along near the ceiling of this wall, with branches and registers to the meeting room on the other side of the wall. So some heat is availa-ble through the uninsulated metal ducts.

Thermostat

Supply Register

Closed interior door

Furnace

HW


38

Fuel Costs Comparisons

The chart below has been modified from one of several interactive spreadsheets on the internet which al-lows the user to enter the current costs of energy to determine the cost per million Btu’s from that source in a particular system. Energy costs (yellow) go up and down, but the heat content of an energy source re-mains relatively predictable. System efficiencies also impact the end heating cost. For example, at $2.38 per gallon, the Town Hall’s furnace would cost about $33 per million Btu’s delivered heat. Even at 22cents per kWh, an air source heat pump would cost about $28 per million Btu’s of delivered heat.


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F. Electrical Systems

The goal of this section, like the sections on the envelope and heating system, is to examine electrical usage. Where do those 8,651 kilowatt hours of electricity “go”? The assign-ment of usages is, at best, an informed estimate which can be useful in making reasonable decisions to reduce energy usage and costs. Please note that the people who work in the build-ing are in the very best position to track electrical usage. An auditor can only take a snap shot in time based on what they see during a site visit, device and anecdotal information they collect, and referring to ‘typical use’ standards in the industry.

The charts above and below attempt to break down annual electrical use based on load types and specific devices. Estimated lighting and plug loads usage account for up to 70% of the building's electrical loads. More efficient lighting and turn-ing things com-pletely off when not in use are the two most practical strategies to re-duce e lectr ic costs . Power strips make it easi-er to turn off all plug loads during unoccupied hours and is recom-mended to elimi-nate “phantom load” electricity

usage.

Electrical Loads

Electric Loads

Equipment Description

Model Manufactur-

er Watts

Ann. Oper. Hrs.

Annual kWh

Costs

Dehumidifier 1100 885 974 $180 Furnace Fan Goodman 185 $34 Hot Water M112UT6SS13 Bradford White 1500 625 938 $173 Phantom Loads 70 8760 613 $113 Fans / AC Holmes 75 400 750 $139 Printer T640 Lexmark 150 100 15 $3

Printer Laser Jet 6P HP 185 150 28 $5 Phones RCA 20 8760 175 $32 Microwave Sanyo 1000 36 36 $7 Shredders Staples 115 300 35 $6 Typewriter 400/per Smith Corona 125 75 9 $2 Postage 30 per USPS 100 200 20 $4 Printer WJ20 Brother 250 200 50 $9

Printer Image Maker

2000 GBC 300 250

75 $14 Printer Image Runner Canon 300 300 90 $17 Computers HP + Dell 195 1200 234 $43 Monitors HP + Dell 125 1500 188 $35 Refrigerator Sanyo 375 1000 375 $69 Printer HP 250 200 50 $9 (3) Computers Dell 550 800 440 $81 (3) Monitors (2) 21" / (1) 17" Samsung 400 800 320 $59 Water Dispenser 175 712 125 $23

Totals 5723 $419

Equipment Type kWh/yr Cost Ratio

Lighting 2,928 $541 34% Plug Loads 2,263 $418 26% Dehumidification 974 $180 11% HW Heating 938 $173 11% Cooling 750 $139 9% Heating 185 $34 2% Phantom Loads 613 $113 7%

TOTALS 8,651 $1,599 100%


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√

√

√

√ √

√

√

√

√ √

√ √

√

√

√

Office Appliances and Equipment

Running an office requires electricity. Pure and simply, we can no longer function without electric devices for communication and a host of other daily tasks. But we can re-visit some things we plug in, water dispensers for example, and reconsider how much service does it provide? We can also consider energy use when it comes to replace a device and choose Energy Star mod-els with only necessary features. Finally, we can turn things off that draw power 24/7 whether we’re even in the room! “Power Save” modes reduce electric consumption, but it is still “idling”. Anything with a clock, or LED light, or memory mode, uses energy to just sit there. Examples are marked with a .

Using Power Strip Energy Savers allows us to shut power off com-pletely—until the device is needed.


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Lighting

The lighting chart below estimates existing usage of kWh based on estimated hours of occupancy, known lamp wattages, and reported patterns of turning off lights when rooms are unoccupied. Turning off lights when not needed will always save money and is recommended.

Most of the lamps in the building are T12 fluorescent tubes, which are no longer available. The good news is that very efficient, long lasting, mercury free, LED troffers are now available and either retrofitting existing fixtures or installing new fixtures are for rebates from your utility. There are a number of options available so contacting your utility for a specific proposal is recommended. Comparing lumen output between LED and fluorescents isn’t an apple to apple comparison so it is also recommended to replace a few at first to determine the minimum wattage for satisfactory lighting. The cost / benefit estimates in the summary are reasonable for planning purposes, but your utility will send out a lighting contractor at no cost to you for a detailed proposal.

The exterior light facing the lower parking area was on during the daytime site visit, so not only is replacing the lamp with an outdoor lamp recommended, but also adding a photo cell so it will only come when its dark.

Location Fixture Description # of Fixs.

Watts per fix

Watts per

circuit

Oper. Hrs

Annual kWh

$ Cost

Main Floor

Entry & Closet Incandescent lamp 1 75 75 50 4 $1

Restroom Fan with incandescent lamp 1 115 115 75 9 $2


Clerk's F, (2) 4' T12, 40 watt mag ballast 3 80 240 700 168 $31

Bookkeeping F, (2) 4' T12, 40 watt mag ballast 2 80 160 700 112 $21

Tax Assessor F, (2) 4' T12, 40 watt mag ballast 4 80 320 400 128 $24

Select Board F, (2) 4' T12, 40 watt mag ballast 3 80 240 250 60 $11

Meeting Room F, (2) 4' T12, 40 watt mag ballast 11 80 880 220 194 $36

F, (2) 4' T12, 40 watt mag ballast 11 80 880 220 194 $36

Exit lights Incandescent lamps (2 each) 3 30 90 8760 788 $146

Exterior Lighting Mixture—Unknown Run Times 2 150 300 5000 1500 $277

Lower Floor

School Board F, (4) 4' T12, 40 watt mag ballast 6 160 960 125 120 $22

File Room F, (2) 4' T12, 40 watt mag ballast 3 80 240 125 30 $6

Hall F, (2) 4' T12, 40 watt mag ballast 2 80 160 150 24 $4

Furnace Incandescent lamps 2 75 150 100 15 $3


Emergency F, (2) 4' T12, 40 watt mag ballast 2 80 160 150 24 $4

Sherriff's F, (2) 4' T12, 40 watt mag ballast 4 80 320 200 64 $12


Totals 2928 $541


42

The article to the right was scanned from the 2013 NHSaves catalog. (Underlines mine) The 2014 catalog did not include any additional information about the T12 Phase out; only listed the more efficient replacement options.

While it may still be possible to purchase older 12 lamps for magnetic ballasts from stockpiles inventory, it is not recommended, any more than one might recommend buy-ing a movie in a VHS format. According to Lighting Manu-facturers, a few specific use T12 tubes are still being made, but only more efficient lamps and designed for specific lo-cations, such as high ceiling warehouses. The amount of savings—and the cost / benefit analysis - depends on how often the lamps are turned on. Converting to T8’s will in-volve less upfront costs, but using rebates (while they exist) to convert to LED’s may make this a good time to transi-tion to 21st century lighting

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T12

T8

T5

Documents

Sullivan Town Hall Report. FINAL.4.11sullivannh.weebly.com/uploads/1/6/2/4/16246402/sullivan... · 2018-09-07 · DS3 Construct insulated box at letter drop $75 DS4 Air seal ceiling