Page 200 - Alternative Energy Systems in Building Design

176 ENERGY CONSERVATION

fluctuates beyond ideal living conditions. A traditional air-conditioning or heating
system can be a tremendous load on a solar or wind energy system, as well as a drain
on the pocketbook for those connected to the utility grid. However, by following some
of the insulation and weatherization tips mentioned previously, it is possible to reduce
heating losses significantly and reduce the size of the heating system.
The following heating and cooling tips will help to reduce heating and cooling losses
further and help your system work as efficiently as possible. These tips are designed
to increase the efficiency of the heating and/or cooling system without necessitating
drastic remodeling efforts. Table 5.1 shows energy distribution in residential and com-
mercial projects.

TABLE 5.1 ENERGY DISTRIBUTION IN RESIDENTIAL
AND COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS

PERCENT OF POWER USED
Apartment buildings
Environmental control 70
Lighting, receptacles 15
Water heating 3
Laundry, elevator, miscellaneous 12
Single residential homes
Environmental control 60
Lighting, receptacles 15
Water heating 3
Laundry, pool 22
Hotel and motels
Space heating 60
Air-conditioning 10
Lighting 11
Refrigeration 4
Laundry, kitchen, restaurant, pool 15
Water heating —
Retail stores
Environmental control, HVAC 30
Lighting 60
Elevator, security, parking 10