Heat Loss Formula:
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Heat loss from perimeter walls refers to the thermal energy that escapes through the external walls of a building. This calculation is essential for determining heating requirements, energy efficiency, and insulation needs in building design and analysis.
The calculator uses the heat loss formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula calculates the rate of heat transfer through perimeter walls based on wall area, insulation properties, and temperature gradient.
Details: Accurate heat loss calculation is crucial for proper HVAC system sizing, energy efficiency assessments, building code compliance, and determining insulation requirements to minimize energy consumption.
Tips: Enter perimeter in meters, height in meters, U value in W/m²K, and temperature difference in Kelvin. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.
Q1: What is the U value in heat loss calculations?
A: The U value (thermal transmittance) measures how well a building element conducts heat. Lower U values indicate better insulation properties.
Q2: How do I determine the temperature difference (ΔT)?
A: ΔT is the difference between indoor design temperature and outdoor design temperature. Typical values range from 20-30K depending on climate and building use.
Q3: What are typical U values for different wall types?
A: Uninsulated brick walls: 1.5-2.0 W/m²K, insulated cavity walls: 0.3-0.6 W/m²K, well-insulated modern walls: 0.1-0.3 W/m²K.
Q4: Does this calculation include all heat losses?
A: No, this calculates only perimeter wall losses. Total building heat loss includes windows, doors, roof, floor, and infiltration losses.
Q5: How can I reduce perimeter heat loss?
A: Improve insulation, reduce thermal bridging, use double/triple glazing, seal air leaks, and consider thermal mass strategies.