Doctor’s Office Energy Audit
IES recently did an energy audit for this 5000 sq. foot medical facility in St. Charles IL. The methodology used included utilizing an infrared camera and blower door to gather data about the degree of infiltration, especially in the roof areas. Secondly, energy bills were analyzed to understand the energy use relative to the external loads and internal needs. In addition, the mechanical system was inspected and reviewed with it’s designer. The end result was a custom Energy Conservation Report which included a Thermal Imaging Report, an analysis of current gas and electrical usage and costs, and an Energy Simulation which broke down what percentage of energy use is consumed by each energy-consuming function, such as heating cooling, lighting, refrigeration, etc. The report recommended specific areas to increase insulation and repair holes in the existing insulation. It also recommended HVAC controls that would sense the need for fresh air and bring it in on an “as needed” basis, rather than as a constant amount. A side effect of the thermal imaging analysis was the discovery of an overheating junction box in the children’s area, which the client was glad to have had discovered before it caused a problem.