Lowering the Cost of High Ceilings

SPEAKER: Jack Matzer, Energy Efficiency Consultant

Heated air becomes lighter. It is natural for the lighter air to move upward to the ceiling creating air layers of different temperature (stratification). This represents a potential source of heat loss for ground floor occupants, and unwanted heat gain on upper levels. In a facility with a 20 foot ceiling, the temperature can be 10 to 20 degrees (F) higher at the ceiling than on the floor. Balancing this difference can represent energy savings of 15% to 30%.  This presentation will highlight case studies focusing on HVAC and destratification systems to achieve temperature balance, energy efficiency and improved thermal comfort.