Be Certain Everyone Reads

# Energy Codes #Skylights  #Windows  #Efficiency Packages

ALL-FOR-ONE and ONE-FOR-ALL:  Per 2015 IECC the entire design team must choose either the IECC or ASHRAE 90.1 for compliance path.  The architect selecting IECC and the engineers selecting 90.1 is not code compliant, the entire team must pick the same ‘code’ to follow.  There are specific differences between the two, for example window limitations, switched receptacle requirements, etc.  Be sure to evaluate this at the beginning of a project and get everyone on-board.

WILL NOT FALL TO THE BUDGET AXE NOW:  Remember the “must have” skylights that the owner “really really” wanted that must be premium quality to “never ever” leak, that often were deleted from scope when the project pricing came in. NOW THEY ARE CODE REQUIRED. OK, not on every project, but in a several project types and conditions they are required.  Per 2015 IECC C402.4.2; In an enclosed space greater than 2,500 sq.ft. directly under a roof with a ceiling height greater than 15 feet, and used as an office, lobby, atrium, concourse, corridor, storage space, gymnasium/exercise, convention center, automotive service area, manufacturing, warehouse, retail, or distribution/sorting area skylights are required.  Be Certain To Read C402.4.2 for all of the specific requirements and the exceptions.

IF YOU LIKE THE LOOK OF PRISON RIBBON WINDOWS YOU ARE GOOD TO GO:  The window area on the EAST wall of a building can not exceed 25% of the total window area for the entire building.  The same code applies to the WEST wall.  Therefore, if you have a rectangular building with north-south orientation and long east and west walls limiting the windows to be no more than 25% on the east and west walls will be an opportunity for innovation.  Per ASHRAE 90.1 – 2013 section 5.5.4.5 Fenestration Orientation; the maximum window area on the east and west wall shall not exceed 25% of total window area.  This requirement is presented in an equation format.  This per exposure limit is in ASHRAE 90.1 2013, not in 2015 IECC.  Therefore, if the entire design team selects 2015 IECC (see 2015 IECC C401.2) this is not a requirement, if ASHRAE 90.1 is selected the per exposure limits are code required.  Be Certain To Read ASHRAE 90.1 – 2013 section 5.5.4 (specifically 5.5.4.5) for the specific requirements.

THINK YOU ARE DONE, NOT YET, BAM! KICK IT UP A NOTCH:  So, you are done, you have satisfied the energy requirements for walls, windows, doors, vestibules, lighting, power, cooling, heating, and water heaters.  BUT WAIT THERE’S MORE!  After satisfying all of the ‘base’ energy requirements, an additional efficiency package is required.  Per 2105 IECC C406 ADDITIONAL EFFICIENCY PACKAGE; Buildings shall comply with at least one (1) additional efficiency package.  There are six (6) to choose from; Increased HVAC performance, Reduced lighting power, enhanced lighting controls, on-site renewable energy, dedicated outdoor air system, or high efficiency water heaters.  Be Certain To Read C406 for the specific requirements.