1. 1 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Cooling Measures WEATHERIZATION ENERGY AUDITOR SINGLE FAMILY WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010

2. 2 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov By attending this session, participants will: Become aware of allowable cooling measures and general guidelines for recommending them. Learn the benefits, qualities, and applications of solar film and other shading options. Be reminded that air sealing and insulating the home, and sealing and insulating ducts in unconditioned areas conserves energy. Learn benefits and qualities of reflective roof coating. Understand cleaning, tune-up, and replacement strategies for a variety of air-cooling appliances. Learning Objectives COOLING MEASURES

3. 3 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Recommend cooling measures if: Usage profile indicates spike in summer usage. Family uses 1,000 kWh/yr or more for air conditioning. Exceptions can be made for: Small homes. Special circumstances (e.g., an elderly person needs cooling in a single room). General Guidelines COOLING MEASURES

4. 4 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Shading, louvers, or solar film on south-, west-, and east- facing windows. Sealing and insulating ducts in unconditioned spaces. Reflective/white roof coating, may also be installed on: -Awnings. -Window Louvers. -Doors. -Exterior ductwork. Clean/tune-up/replace cooling equipment. Insulation and air-sealing. General waste heat reduction. Allowable Measures COOLING MEASURES

5. 5 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Recommended for: South-, west- and east-facing windows not shaded during summer months. When solar gain overheats room causing increase in A/C use. Solar Film/Shading Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy This window is already shaded by a nearby tree. Evaluate cooling-season exposure to determine cost effectiveness of window shades or solar films. COOLING MEASURES

6. 6 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Take the path of the sun into account. Some windows on south side may be shaded by overhangs in summer, only exposed in winter. Exposure to Sun Illustrations courtesy of Florida Solar Energy Center, www.fsec.ucf.edu. COOLING MEASURES

7. 7 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Determine window exposure with appropriate tool (e.g., Solar Pathfinder). Show client sample of shading fabric, louvers, or window film to be installed. Solar Film/Shading Tips The Solar Pathfinder is useful for determining summertime exposure any time of the year. Show client a sample of recommended shading device or film before specifying for the job. COOLING MEASURES Photos courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy

8. 8 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Shading coefficient of 0.40 or lower U-factor of 1.0 or lower “Total solar energy rejected” is at least 65% Film is approved by manufacturer for use on insulated glass and insulated panels Window Film Guidelines Photo courtesy of A. Tamasin Sterner, Chapter 10 “Cooling Measures,” PPL Electric Utility Winter Relief Asset Program Standards, 2007 Film is applied to the cleaned interior of eligible windows and doors and smoothed. COOLING MEASURES

9. 9 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Seal and insulate ducts in unconditioned areas. Keep conditioned air where client needs it. For more details on duct leakage testing and sealing, refer to Building Shell Retrofit Options section. Sealing and Insulating Ducts Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy Specify duct sealing to achieve pressure pan readings of less than two (2) Pa. COOLING MEASURES

10. 10 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy Specify: Seal and insulate ducts running through unconditioned spaces in accordance with Program Standards.

11. 11 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy

12. 12 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy

13. 13 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy While checking duct conditions, note if they should be cleaned, like this one.

14. 14 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy Cleaned and sealed.

15. 15 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Where wall cavities are used as ducts, specify duct or metal pan installation. Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy

16. 16 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Solar Reflectance = 65% or higher when new. Thermal Emittance = 80% to 90% or more. Elastomeric: -Water-proofing. -Flexible. Cementitious: -Relies on underlying membrane for waterproofing. Roof Coatings Reflective roof coatings, shown here on a row house, can carry a heating penalty due to reflected winter sun, but in most urban areas, savings outweigh heating losses. COOLING MEASURES

17. 17 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Consider white reflective roof coating if roof receives full sun during cooling season. These coatings: Reflect solar radiation, cutting cooling loads 10%-60%. Can extend life of roof, and elastomeric varieties protect from water penetration. Can be applied over common roofing materials. Typically last 7 – 12 years. Average cost is between $0.75 and $1.50 per square foot for materials and labor (not including incidental repairs). Reflective Roof Coating COOLING MEASURES

18. 18 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Color Affects Surface Temperature Albedo, or solar reflectance, can significantly influence surface temperature, with the white stripe on the brick wall about 5 to 10°F (3-5°C) cooler than the surrounding, darker areas. Photos courtesy of the EPA’s “Reducing Urban Heat Islands, A Compendium of Strategies. 2008 COOLING MEASURES

19. 19 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Primer is often required. Prime metal roofs for proper adhesion and to prevent rust from progressing. For pre-1976 mobile homes, scaffolding helps installers avoid walking on, and potentially damaging, the roof. Typical installation includes primer + two coats. Educate clients to wash roof periodically. Remember to evaluate cost-effectiveness! Reflective Roof Coating Guidelines COOLING MEASURES

20. 20 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Remove obstructions to airflow. Clean condenser coils. Clean evaporator if accessible. Clean/Replace filters. Insulate coolant line. Level unit. Test/adjust coolant charge (Requires EPA licensed refrigeration technician). If replacing, properly size replacement. Clean/Tune Up/Replacing Cooling Systems Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy COOLING MEASURES

21. 21 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov CONDENSER AIR HANDLER Air Conditioning Units Packaged: Heat Pump Central System Often mounted on roof or concrete slab outdoors Includes Room A/C units (most common in low income homes) Air Conditioning Systems Split System: Condenser outdoors A/C coil indoors, often in furnace, heat pump, or supply duct Mini-split ductless systems place the condenser outdoors, air handler indoors. * All A/C need clean filters and coils to allow good air flow and efficiently transfer heat. COOLING MEASURES

22. 22 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Outdoor: Cleaning frequency depends on levels of dust and pollen in area. High levels: Clean annually. Low levels: Every 3 years. Indoor: Should be protected by well-fitting clean filter. Keeps blower and coils clean. Easier to replace or clean filters than blowers or coils. Indoor and Outdoor Coils Outdoor Coils Indoor Coils COOLING MEASURES

23. 23 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov 1.Shut off the main switch to the air handler. 2.Open the blower compartment and look into the blades of the blower, using a flashlight. Reach in and slide your finger along a fan blade. Have you collected a mound of dust? 3.If the blower is dirty, remove it and clean it. If you remove the motor, you can use hot water or household cleanser to remove the dirt. 4.If the blower is dirty, the indoor coil is probably also dirty. Inspect the coil visually if you have access. Create an access hatch if needed. 5.If the coil is dirty, clean it using a brush, indoor coil cleaner and water. 6.Straighten bent fins with a fin comb to prevent bent fins from reducing airflow. 7.Clean the drain pan and drain line. Cleaning Indoor Coils Source: Energy Out West Weatherization Field Guide. Copyright Saturn 2009 www.srmi.biz COOLING MEASURES

24. 24 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy Clean room air conditioners.

25. 25 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Parts of Room A/C housing outdoor coil compressor condensate drain indoor coil controls filter removable grill Photo courtesy of Energy Out West Weatherization Field Guide. Copyright Saturn 2009 www.srmi.biz COOLING MEASURES

26. 26 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov 1.Remove the grill and filter on the interior side of the unit. 2.Unplug and remove the air conditioner temporarily from the window or wall. With some units, the mechanical parts slide out of the housing, and with others you must remove the whole unit, housing and all. 3.Take the unit to a clean outdoor area that drains well, like a driveway or patio. 4.Cover the compressor, fan motor, and electrical components with plastic bags, held in place with rubber bands. 5.Dampen each of the coils with a light spray of water, then rake as much dirt off the coils as you can with an old hairbrush. 6.Spray indoor coil cleaner into the indoor coil and outdoor coil cleaner into the outdoor coil, and let the cleaner set for a minute or two. 7.Rinse the cleaner and dirt out of the coils with a gentle spray from a hose. 8.Repeat the process again until the water draining from the coils is clean. 9.Straighten bent fins with a fin comb to prevent bent fins from reducing airflow. Cleaning Room A/C Source: Energy Out West Weatherization Field Guide. Copyright Saturn 2009 www.srmi.biz COOLING MEASURES

27. 27 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy Remove the housing and removable grille to access parts for cleaning.

28. 28 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy Use outdoor coil cleaner for outdoor coils.

29. 29 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy Remove the removable grille to assess filter.

30. 30 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy This filter is doing a good job stopping dust and dirt from dirtying the coils.

31. 31 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy The newly cleaned filter will continue to keep the coils clean.

32. 32 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy 32 Moisture dripping from bottom of unit may indicate a clogged condensate drain.

33. 33 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy Clogged condensate drains can lead to moisture damage. Include cost of associated incidental repairs into SIR calculations. Clogged condensate drains can lead to moisture damage. Include cost of associated incidental repairs into SIR calculations.

34. 34 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy Sill is repaired before replacing unit. Damaged insulation and siding has been removed.

35. 35 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy Note air sealing around “through the wall” unit.

36. 36 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Central A/C Components The outdoor condenser and coils dissipate collected heat to the outdoor air. In dusty climates, the coils should be cleaned annually to maintain efficient performance. COOLING MEASURES

37. 37 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov If appropriate, specify cleaning the evaporator: Clean underside with stiff brush, use mirror to see entire area to be cleaned. Clean tray below evaporator. Pour 1 tablespoon bleach into weep hole to prevent fungus growth. Open clogged weep hole with piece of wire. Servicing Central A/C Evaporator COOLING MEASURES

38. 38 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov If appropriate, specify servicing the condenser: Cut down grass, weeds or vines obstructing air flow. Clean coils with coil cleaner. Carefully clean fins with soft brush (no hose, may turn dirt to mud and cake fins). Straighten bent fins carefully with fin comb. Level unit (or concrete pad on which it sits). Educate clients to cover during winter to prevent leaves from accumulating or damage from elements. Servicing Central A/C Condenser COOLING MEASURES

39. 39 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy Covering the unit during periods of disuse prevents clogging with leaves and other debris.

40. 40 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Inspect cooling line. Specify insulation where needed. Inspect Coolant Line Photo courtesy of The U.S. Department of Energy This insulation has eroded. Specify new insulation for this line. COOLING MEASURES

41. 41 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Refrigerant Charge Effects EER Comparison of TXV and Fixed-Orifice XV: EER vs. Charge at 95°F Outdoor Temperature Photo courtesy of M. Farzad, D.L. O’Neal, Texas A&M University. COOLING MEASURES

42. 42 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Refrigerant Charge Testing #1 Before Testing and Adjusting: Outdoor temp at least 60°F. Measure and adjust airflow. Test and seal ducts. Clean condenser coil, allow to dry completely. All testing and refrigerant handling – Qualified and EPA licensed refrigeration technician. Required Equipment for Testing/Adjusting: DOT recovery cylinder for removal. Refrigeration gauge set. Digital thermometer with wet cloth (for wet bulb) or sling psychrometer. Source: Energy Out West Weatherization Field Guide. Copyright Saturn 2009 www.srmi.biz COOLING MEASURES

43. 43 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Refrigerant Charge Testing #2 Superheat is the temperature difference between the evaporator and the compressor inlet. Subcooling is the temperature difference between the middle of the condenser and the liquid service valve outside. Superheat test: Use for fixed-orifice or capillary tube system Airflow must be ≥ 400 CFM per ton Outdoor temperature must be ≥ 60°F Charge checking at very high outdoor temperatures not recommended Subcooling test: Use for thermal expansion valve system Outdoor temperature must be ≥ 60°F Air conditioner or heat pump should be running in cooling mode for at least 10 minutes prior to testing Photo Courtesy of Energy Out West Weatherization Field Guide. Copyright Saturn 2009 www.srmi.biz COOLING MEASURES

44. 44 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Refrigerant Charge Superheat Test Use Evaporator Superheat Test for capillary-tube or fixed-orifice expansion devices, operating in the cooling mode: Verify adequate airflow. Measure dry bulb temp of air entering outdoor coil. Measure wet bulb temp of return air at air handler. Use superheat table to determine recommended superheat temp Measure and evaluate compressor-suction pressure at suction service valve Measure and evaluate suction line temperature. If superheat temp is high, add refrigerant, wait 10 minutes and repeat test. If superheat temp is low, remove refrigerant, wait 10 minutes and repeat test. For more complete instructions, refer to Section 3.8 of the Energy Out West Field Guide. Photo courtesy of Energy Out West Weatherization Field Guide. Copyright Saturn 2009 www.srmi.biz COOLING MEASURES

45. 45 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Refrigerant Charge Subcooling Test Use Subcooling Test for Thermal Expansion Valve (TXV) Devices: Measure and convert liquid pressure at liquid service valve. Measure temperature of liquid refrigerant leaving condenser. Subtract liquid-refrigerant temp from converted condensing temp. This is subcooling. Compare to correct subcooling (from permanent sticker in condenser, manufacturer’s literature or slide-rule). If more than 3°F variation, adjust levels. Let system run 10 minutes and repeat test. For more complete instructions, refer to Section 3.8 of the Energy Out West Field Guide. Photo courtesy of Energy Out West Weatherization Field Guide. Copyright Saturn 2009 www.srmi.biz COOLING MEASURES

46. 46 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Replacing a Room A/C Sizing Adjustments: Heavily shaded – Reduce capacity by 10%. Very sunny – Increase capacity by 10%. Add 600 BTUs for every occupant after 2 that usually occupy the room. In kitchen – Add 4,000 BTUs. Area to be Cooled (square feet) Capacity Needed (BTUs per hour) 100 to 1505,000 150 to 2506,000 250 to 3007,000 300 to 3508,000 350 to 4009,000 400 to 45010,000 450 to 55012,000 550 to 70014,000 700 to 1,00018,000 1,000 to 1,20021,000 If cost-effective, replace existing unit with properly-sized, high-efficiency model. Look for models that carry the ENERGY STAR logo. If installed in corner, choose unit that can direct airflow in appropriate direction. Photo courtesy of ENERGY STAR program; www.energystar.gov COOLING MEASURES

47. 47 | WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM – August 2010eere.energy.gov Allowable cooling measures include window shading, roof coating, shell and duct sealing and insulation, and cleaning/tune- up/replacement of air cooling appliances. Cooling measures are generally recommended when household cooling energy use ≥ 1,000 kWh/year. As with any weatherization measures, SIR must be ≥ 1. Windows and roofs should be evaluated for solar exposure during cooling season. Air conditioners should be level, coils clean and unobstructed, and have proper refrigerant charge to operate efficiently. If replacing a unit, properly size according to Manual J or ENERGY STAR guidelines (room A/C). Summary COOLING MEASURES