Many new and existing homes have smaller heating and cooling peak loads than commonly available equipment. Is oversizing of variable capacity equipment a liability or an asset? When are product energy efficiency test results useful, and when are they misleading? While integrated space conditioning, water heating, and ventilation systems appear to be a logical approach, does field experience bear that out? What other system types might make sense? If the load is reduced substantially, can you justify replacing a system with years of useful life remaining?

By attending this session, participants will

1. Gain an increased appreciation of both the potential for, and challenges to achieving expected HVAC system performance in low energy homes; and how this differs from average new and existing housing stock
2. Be aware of laboratory and field research that challenge assumptions regarding the impact of sizing on space conditioning performance, comfort, and energy use
3. Rethink assumptions regarding traditional heating distribution systems

Type: 90-Minute Breakout (WS)