MODULE 6. Building Heat Transfer and Energy Audits

Module 6 covers the principles of heat transfer in buildings and the methods used to assess energy performance before, during, and after heat pump integration. The lessons link building physics with audit procedures, measurement techniques, and data collection practices that support system design and retrofit decisions.

Lesson 39 introduces the components of building heat loss and heat gain. It explains conduction through opaque elements and glazing, solar gains, air infiltration, ventilation effects, and internal gains from occupants and equipment. These mechanisms form the basis for estimating heating and cooling demand.

Lesson 40 defines heating and cooling loads through the energy balance of a thermal zone. It clarifies sensible and latent load components, design conditions, and the practical considerations that shape system sizing in different building types.

Lesson 41 introduces building energy audits. It defines the audit purpose, the link between building demand reduction and heat pump performance, and the differences between walk-through, comprehensive, and investment-grade audits, including the role of relevant standards.

Lesson 42 presents the instruments used in audits. It describes indoor environmental sensors, air and water flow measurement devices, electrical meters, combustion analysers, infrared thermography, blower door testing, and the importance of calibration and measurement accuracy.

Lesson 43 outlines the data required for analysis: envelope characteristics, thermal zones, utility bills, weather data, occupancy patterns, and characteristics of terminal units and generation systems. It establishes the information baseline needed for performance evaluation.

Lesson 44 examines building envelope retrofit strategies. It identifies common deficiencies, diagnostic methods, and typical interventions such as air sealing, glazing upgrades, insulation approaches, and moisture management. It links envelope improvements directly to heat pump performance through reduced load and lower distribution temperatures.