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The Code for Sustainable Homes

Measuring the performance of an existing building

  • 3 things to know
  • A2 2

Overview

Gathering data, thermal imaging and when to do it, air-tightness tests, measuring energy use and heating systems, checking insulation with a borescope, risk assessment and loft safety, occupant questionnaires and presenting data.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

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Key term

How is data gathered to assess a building's sustainability performance?

Key term

What is thermal imaging and how does it assess a building?

Key term

When should thermal imaging of a building be carried out?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

  1. 1

    How is data gathered to assess a building's sustainability performance?

    Model answer

    Data comes from measurements, observations, meter readings, occupant questionnaires and building documents. Quantitative and qualitative data are combined into a performance profile.

  2. 2

    What is thermal imaging and how does it assess a building?

    Model answer

    Thermal imaging uses an infrared camera to show surface temperatures. Warm patches on outside walls reveal where heat escapes through poor insulation.

  3. 3

    When should thermal imaging of a building be carried out?

    Model answer

    Thermal imaging works best on a cold day with a large temperature difference between inside and outside. Early morning avoids sunshine warming the walls.

  4. 4

    What is an air-tightness test?

    Model answer

    An air-tightness test uses a fan in an outside door to change the building's air pressure. The rate of air leakage shows how draughty the building is.

  5. 5

    How can energy use be measured in an existing building?

    Model answer

    Electricity and gas meter readings taken over a set period give actual consumption. Plug-in energy monitors show the use of individual appliances.

  6. 6

    How can a building's heating system be assessed?

    Model answer

    The age, type and efficiency rating of the boiler or heat pump are recorded. Controls such as thermostats and timers are checked.

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