It’s Not A Gimmick

The number one cause of underperforming HVAC systems is inadequate airflow. The number two issue is equipment not matched to the conditions the system can handle. In other words, the capacity of the system is mismatched with the home’s heat load.

While there are few in the industry who embrace Home Performance or Performance-based Contracting’ as their preferred delivery method, many will soon adopt the idea out of necessity. Some in the contracting community use the phrase as a gimmick, not understanding the commitment.

Contractors who make the commitment are shocked to see the incredible system performance improvements to their new installations and will tell you they wish they had embraced performance models earlier.

Why?

Each aspect of a Performance-Based job acts upon other components producing increasingly better results. When we follow an outline that addresses all aspects of the home with proven methodology, we continually improve our jobs.

Here is an outline you can follow:

Analyze Projects Correctly

New Construction. You are at the mercy of the information provided by the builder. Be sure all relevant information is included. This includes all plans that define wall, window, and door materials. The framing plans should give your company an idea whether or not you can install correctly sized duct.

When necessary you must push back on construction themes that limit your access to do the job correctly. It may be the prudent option to walk away on occasion when you know the job will not perform as it should.

Just because the architect wants a specific look or the owner wants specific floor space does not mean we acquiesce and install an inferior design.

Retrofit. These are the jobs we can impress customers with. Homes built in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s are homes we can influence greatly. Don’t be afraid to trust a load calculation that tells you something other than what the old rules-of-thumb say.

When we follow the Energy Code with appropriate methods and material, we move performance well above the 650 to 750 feet per 12,000 Btu performance range. This includes an efficiently functioning duct system.

Set up a plan of attack. After analyzing the structure, create a comprehensive plan to address each job with the same comprehensive scope customized to meet specific needs.

Share with the team. Too often we assume our team understands how a job should be installed. Clear instructions with an accurate material list will go a long way to improving job quality and profits.

In today’s market, your workforce can change. You should begin the process of continuous training in-house or contracting it out.

Systematically Apply Principles

Envelope efficiency will influence your job beyond comprehension. The more efficiently the envelope is sealed, the more effective all other measures become compounding savings and comfort at every level.

Aligning Insulation and thermal properties will ensure all installed products will perform efficiently and improve comfort. Too often we overlook construction issues that impact the equipment performance.
Having a basic understanding of Building Science is necessary. Without knowledge, we will continually chase goals that are unachievable.

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