Building performance analysis, including energy modeling, ensures energy compliance, identifies energy-saving opportunities, and aligns the design with the highest sustainability standards. We perform energy modeling using software such as Elite CHVAC 7.0, DOE AIRMaster+, Wrightsoft Right-Suite Universal, Carrier HAP, Trane TRACE 700, Trane TRACE 3D Plus, EnergyPro 9, eQUEST, open-source CBECC-Com and CBECC-Res, along with industry standards like Manual J (Load Calculation), Manual N (Duct Design), Manual S (Equipment Selection), and Manual D (Detailed Duct Design), as well as SMACNA. We have a strong understanding of energy codes and design standards, including ANSI/ASHRAE 90.1 – Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings, ASHRAE 62.1 – Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), and ASHRAE 55-2023 – Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy for heat gain calculations. Additionally, we ensure energy compliance (including Title 24 in California) and use COMcheck to demonstrate compliance with mechanical and electrical systems.

Title 24 is the formal name for the set of regulations known as the California Building Standards Code (CBSC). This code includes standards for various aspects of building design, such as energy efficiency (the California Energy Code (CEC), which is Part 6 of Title 24), fire safety, plumbing, electrical systems, and other building systems. The CEC sets regulations to govern energy efficiency in building performance, reduce energy consumption, and promote sustainable practices.

Title 24 compliance can be achieved through either prescriptive or performance-based methods. The performance method provides more flexibility, allowing energy efficiency measures to be tailored to the specific project, while the prescriptive method is more commonly used due to its straightforwardness and ease of application. However, the performance method is ideal when greater flexibility or customization is required.

Compliance with Title 24, specifically through the California Form 1R (CF1R-Pre or CF1R-Perf), where “R” refers to residential buildings, is typically required when making changes to elements like windows or exterior walls. It is generally not required when replacing mechanical or plumbing equipment, especially when the replacement qualifies as a repair rather than an alteration or the installation of entirely new equipment.

CALGreen is California’s Green Building Standards Code (Part 11 of Title 24), designed to promote environmentally sustainable building practices and reduce buildings’ environmental impact. It focuses on sustainability and environmental performance in buildings, addressing areas such as water efficiency, energy efficiency (in terms of sustainability, not just energy consumption), indoor environmental quality, material conservation, resource efficiency, waste reduction, recycling, and air quality. Compliance with CALGreen is typically required for new construction, renovations, and additions to existing buildings.