Predicting the performance of radiant technologies in attics: Reducing the discrepancies between attic specific and whole-building energy models

Anthony D. Fontanini, Jose L. Castro Aguilar, Matt S. Mitchell, Jan Kosny, Noel Merket, Jason W. DeGraw, Edwin Lee

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

The use of radiant technology in attics aims to reduce the radiation component of heat transfer between the attic floor and roof decks, gables, and eaves. Recently, it has been shown that EnergyPlus underestimates the savings using radiant technologies in attic spaces. The aim of this study is to understand why EnergyPlus underestimates the performance of radiant technologies and provide a solution strategy that works within the current capabilities of EnergyPlus. The analysis uses three attic energy models as a baseline for comparison for EnergyPlus. Potential reasons for the discrepancies between the attic specific energy models and EnergyPlus are isolated and individually tested. A solution strategy is proposed using the Energy Management System (EMS) capabilities within EnergyPlus. This solution strategy produces similar results to the other attic specific energy models. This paper shows that the current capabilities of EnergyPlus are sufficient to simulate radiant technologies in attics. The methodology showcased in this paper serves as a guide for engineers and researchers who would like to predict the performance radiant technology in attics using the whole building energy software, EnergyPlus.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)69-83
Number of pages15
JournalEnergy and Buildings
Volume169
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 15 2018
Externally publishedYes

Funding

We would like to acknowledge the support of the U.S. Building Technologies Office for the support of this project. Jose L. Castro Aguilar acknowledges financial support for his Postdoctoral Research from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE). His appointment was managed and administered by Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU).

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