Simulation of a building and its HVAC system with an equation solver: Application to audit

A series of building energy simulation tools are being developed to help the building energy auditor in establishing his diagnosis (including benchmarking and detailed analysis of actual energy consumption) and in evaluating the selected energy conservation opportunities (ECOs). A first simulation tool, dedicated to benchmarking, has been presented in a previous paper. The present paper focuses on the second simulation tool, dedicated to inspection and evaluation of ECOs. This Building-HVAC System global model includes simplified models of building zones and of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) equipment. Only a limited number of easily identifiable parameters are required. The simplicity of the models and the use of an equation solver to run the simulation ensure good robustness and full transparency. The development, the implementation and the application of these models are discussed. Focus is also given to the calibration of the tools to monthly utility bills.