EMP EMP Building Systems & HVAC Optimization 2

Question 1

What is 'thermal mass' in building energy management?

Accepted Answer

A building material's ability to absorb, store, and release heat energy

Answer

Thermal mass materials (concrete, masonry) store solar and internal heat gains during the day and release them slowly, reducing peak HVAC loads and shifting energy demand.

Question 2

In building energy analysis, what does a 'degree day' represent?

Accepted Answer

A measure of how much and for how long outdoor temperature deviates from a base temperature

Answer

Heating or cooling degree days quantify the cumulative temperature deviation from a base (typically 65°F), serving as a proxy for building heating or cooling energy demand.

Question 3

What is the purpose of an Air Handling Unit (AHU) in a commercial building HVAC system?

Accepted Answer

To condition and distribute air throughout the building by heating, cooling, and filtering

Answer

An AHU conditions supply air by heating, cooling, humidifying, dehumidifying, and filtering it before distributing it to occupied zones through ductwork.

Question 4

Which insulation property determines how well a material resists heat flow, commonly used to rate wall and attic insulation in the US?

Accepted Answer

R-value

Answer

R-value measures thermal resistance per unit area; higher R-values indicate better insulating performance and are used in US building codes and energy standards.

Question 5

What is 'demand-controlled ventilation' (DCV) and why does it save energy?

Accepted Answer

A system using CO₂ sensors to modulate outdoor air intake based on actual occupancy

Answer

DCV uses CO₂ sensors as a proxy for occupancy, reducing outdoor air ventilation when spaces are less occupied and avoiding energy waste conditioning unnecessary outside air.

(EMP) Energy Management Professional Practice Test

(EMP) Energy Management Professional Practice Test

EMP EMP Building Systems & HVAC Optimization 2