Data Collection and Analysis Flashcards
7 cards from real Certified Energy Auditor Certification practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Data Collection and Analysis flashcards as text
What does a power quality analyzer measure that a standard clamp meter cannot?
Answer: Harmonic distortion and power factor
Power quality analyzers capture waveform distortion (THD), power factor, and transients that are invisible to basic clamp meters.
An auditor collects spot measurements of compressed air pressure at multiple points in a distribution system. What pattern indicates excessive pressure drop?
Answer: Pressure at end-use points significantly lower than at the compressor outlet
A large pressure differential between the compressor outlet and end-use points signals pipe friction losses or blockages that waste energy.
Which statistical method is best suited for determining the relationship between outdoor air temperature and a building's chilled water consumption?
Answer: Linear regression analysis
Linear regression quantifies the correlation between a dependent variable (chilled water use) and an independent variable (outdoor temperature).
When inventorying HVAC equipment for an energy audit, which nameplate value is most critical for calculating annual energy consumption?
Answer: Full-load rated input power (kW or hp)
Full-load rated input power combined with operating hours enables calculation of annual energy use.
A steam trap survey reveals 15% of traps are failed-open. What does this indicate for the energy audit?
Answer: Live steam is blowing through, causing direct energy loss
Failed-open steam traps allow live steam to pass continuously into the condensate return, wasting boiler fuel.
In an energy audit, what is the purpose of sub-metering individual loads?
Answer: To disaggregate total facility consumption by end-use category
Sub-metering breaks down whole-facility energy use into HVAC, lighting, process, and other categories to prioritize ECMs.
Which of the following best describes a 'phantom load' in the context of energy data collection?
Answer: Electricity consumed by equipment in standby or off mode
Phantom (or standby) loads are the continuous low-level draws from devices that appear off but remain energized.