Recommended Websites
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Recommended Websites |
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Building Science Related
Building Sciences Corporation - Excellent information for all interested in the many aspects of installing an air conditioning system that will provide comfort at a somewhat lower cost of installation or replacement. Additionally when systems are installed per recommendations they should be mostly trouble-free.
U.S. Department of Energy - This is an excellent website with enough material to provde many days of reading and learning.
Energy and Environmental Building Alliance - This is the organization that offers the "Houses That Work" Seminars. In fact I attended one of these seminars in Houston many years ago. This along with an article "The Paston Effect" (Ron Bailey, P.E., Bailey Engineering) was what started me down the path to learning about building sciences.
Bailey Engineering - Mr. Bailey is the author of "The Paston Effect", reading this article was like turning on a light bulb for me. Almost everything he talks about in the article I had seen and in most cases I did not understand why it was occuring. This is a must read for all that are interested in furthering their career in the HVAC Industry. There are several other articles worth reading in particular the article entitled "Martin County Courthouse - The Untold Story".
Building America - This site has much in the way of free articles and information concerning building structures in all of the climate zones throughout the U.S.. One of the most important aspects of bulding and subsequently installing an air conditioning system is a given structure is to have an understanding that all structures are completely Climate Specific.
Energy Star - If us have an interest in becoming an Energy Start approved contractor, this is the place to go. For home owners, there is a wealth of excellent information on this site.
Partnership for improved Residential Construction - Contractors and Homeowners alike will find much information on this site.
International Code Council - For obtaining copies of code books, they also have an excellent newsletter
Uniform Mechanical Code - For those working in municipalities that have adopted this code and for contractors that chose that code in unincorporated areas in Texas.
Municode - Provides a listing of the code amendments to various cities building and mechanical code
Code related notes:
- Almost all municipalities have a link to the municipal ordinances and codes they have adopted. Viewing these codes will assist you in getting it right the first time.
- For those in Texas, you can go to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation and view the article for municipal codes to obtain a basic understanding of what the various municipalities will require. Once again this will assist you in getting it right the first time.
Air Conditioning Contractors of America - Generally speaking I have learned throughout the years I have been in this industry that there is a much better change of getting a professional installation from someone that is a member of this organizaation.
Air Conditioning Contractors of America Greater Houston - Looking for a contractor in the greater Houston area, check these contractors out.
Infiltec - This website is dedicated to providing information concerning Blower Door tests on structures. In the 2009 International Residential Code having a Blower Door test accomplished on a residential structure is an option, however, most cities appear to be making it mandatory. The 2012 codes however will make this a mandatory requirement in new construction.
Retrotec - This company sells blower door equipment.
The Energy Conservatory - Manufacturers Blower Door and Duct Blaster equipment.