TABLE OF CONTENTS All solutions to engineering problems start with a calculation or estimation of the duty which must be met (i.e., quantifying the problem). The purpose of heating and cooling load calculations, then, is to quantify the heating and/or cooling loads in the space(s) to be conditioned. Rough estimates of load may be made during the concept design phase. During design development and final design, it is essential to make orderly, detailed, and well-documented load calculations, because these form the basis for equipment selection, duct and piping design, and psychrometric analysis. Today s energy and building codes also require detailed documentation to prove compliance.
The necessity for order and documentation cannot be overemphasized. While it may sometimes seem unnecessary to list all criteria and assumptions, these data are invaluable when changes or questions arise, sometimes months or years after the design is completed.
This chapter refers to a great many data tables from the ASHRAE Handbook. Many of these tables require several pages in the 8 1/2-in by 11-in format of the Handbook and are presented here in abstract form. For the complete tables refer to the Handbook.
