S10 -- Small Forced-Air Heating and Cooling Systems (I-P)

This chapter describes the basics of design and component selection of small forced-air heating and cooling systems, explains their importance, and describes the system’s parametric effects on energy consumption. It also gives an overview of test methods for thermal distribution system efficiency, and considers the interaction between the building thermal/pressure envelope and the forced-air heating and cooling system, which is critical to the energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the overall system. This chapter pertains to residential and certain small commercial systems; large commercial systems are beyond the scope of this chapter. Applicable standards are listed in the Standards section at the end of the chapter. Components Common System Problems System Design Detailed Duct Design Small Commercial Systems Testing for Duct Efficiency.