Week 11 - Energy

1.4. Windows and Lighting

As much of a building's heat transfer occurs through its windows, window-type can be very important for heat loss.  A window type should be selected according to climate, solar orientation and building use amongst other factors.  High performance windows have many benefits which include:

• Reduction in temperature differential close to the window space
• Downsizing of HVAC
• Reduced fading from UV light
• Reduced noise transfer
• Reduced condensation
• Improved daylighting

Lighting

Efficient lighting (and in particular use of daylighting) has two main benefits:

• A reduction in wasted heat energy and therefore reduced energy consumption
• A reduction in a buildings cooling load from unwanted heat energy.

Daylighting has other added benefits including:

• Better visual activity
• Enhanced productivity and well being
• Connection to nature