Climate+Data

CLIMATE
[|Western Regional Climate Data]



TWO HOUR TEMPERATURE CHART:
A Chart based upon Climate normals and annuals. Blue indicates heating need / Red cooling need. This data is collected and used in the design process to minimize energy costs and consumption//. note: Excel is required to view chart//

DESIGN PRIORITIES:
A list of key design strategies/elements based on [|Climate Consultant] software and data for Western Washington

Traditional homes in cold climates had snug floorplan with central heat source, south facing windows, and roof pitched for wind protection Lower the indoor comfort temperature at night to reduce heating energy consumption (lower thermostat heating setback) (see comfort low criteria) Steep pitched roofs, vented to the exterior with a well insulated ceiling below, work well in cold climates (sheds rain or snow, prevents ice dams) Tiles or slate (even on low mass wood floors) or a stone-faced fireplace can help store winter daytime solar gain and summer nighttime 'coolth' If a basement is used it must be at least 18 inches below frost line and insulated on the exterior (foam) or on the interior (fiberglass in furred wall) High Efficiency furnace (at least Energy Star) should prove cost effective Traditional homes in cold overcast climates used low mass tightly sealed, well insulated construction to provide rapid heat buildup in morning Keep the building small (right-sized) because excessive floor area wastes heating and cooling energy Extra insulation (super insulation) might prove cost effective, and will increase occupant comfort by keeping indoor temperatures more uniform Use vestibule entries (air locks) to minimize infiltration and eliminate drafts, in cold windy sites Sunny wind-protected outdoor spaces can extend living areas in cool weather Locate garages or storage areas on the side of the building facing the coldest wind to help insulate Small well-insulated skylights (less than 3% of floor area in clear climates, 5% in overcast) reduce daytime lighting energy and cooling loads Carefully seal building to minimize infiltration and eliminate drafts, especially in windy sites (house wrap, weather stripping, tight windows) Use compact building form with square-ish floorplan and multiple stories to minimize heat loss from building envelope (minimize surface to volume ratio) Heat gain from equipment, lights, and occupants will greatly reduce heating needs so keep home tight, well insulated (use ventilation in summer) Insulating blinds or heavy draperies will help reduce winter night time heat losses Organize floorplan so winter sun penetrates into daytime use spaces with specific functions that coincide with solar orientation Provide double pane high performance glazing (Low-E) on west, north, and east, but clear on south for maximum passive solar gain Trees (neither conifer nor deciduous) should not be planted in front of passive solar windows, but rather beyond 45 degrees from each corner

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