1 LU HSW/SD/AIACombined Heat and Power (CHP) systems, as the name implies, serve dual purposes. First, they use a propane or natural gas generator to create electricity. The electricity produced from the generator is used by the home, reducing energy costs. If more electricity is generated than is consumed, the power can be sold back to the grid through net metering available in most states. Simultaneously, the heat from the engine is captured and used to warm the building or create hot water, further reducing energy costs. CHP units have been used in Europe for years and are now becoming more popular in the U.S. This courses is registered for the following education credits: 1 HSW/SD hour, AIA; 1 NAHB hour, 1 NARI hour. Take the course.
- Posted:
- March 2012
- Subject(s):
- Building Performance, HVAC, Energy Efficiency
- Sponsor:
- Propane Education & Research Council
- Certification(s):
- NAHB, NARI
1.0 LU HSWNavigating the seemingly endless number of codes influencing residential building can be daunting. This learning unit will address the primary sections in the IECC Energy Code, advanced efficiency programs and their implications as they relate to the use of propane. At the end of this course you will be able to identify the top regions in the United States where propane-fueled appliances are used in new homes, discuss the structure of the 2009 IECC - specifically the sections that impact propane in new single family homes and recognize the major compliance paths in the IECC. You will also be able to describe minimum efficiency requirements for propane-fired residential equipment and identify opportunities for the cost-effective use of these higher-efficiency systems. Finally, you will be introduced to green building codes and standards, including LEED for Homes and the National Green Building Standard, and will understand the overall role propane plays in earning points towards a home’s compliance. Take the course.
- Posted:
- March 2011
- Sponsor:
- Propane Education and Research Council
- Certification(s):
- AIA, NAHB, NARI, USGBC
- 1.0 LU HSW/SD
Decisions on where and when to invest in residential energy efficient equipment can be tricky for a consumer, especially when it comes to paying a premium for higher efficiency equipment. This course focuses on the typical energy use for average single family detached households. Once you have completed this course you will be able to explain the difference between elective and non-elective energy efficiency measures (EEM) and identify the most beneficial EEMs in each of the five targeted climate zones covered. You will also be able to determine approximate payback periods for EEMs in your projects and to convey the costs and benefits of the EEM options to your clients. Take the course.
- Posted:
- January 2011
- Subject(s):
- Energy Efficiency
- Sponsor:
- Propane Education and Research Council
- Certification(s):
- AIA, NARI, USGBC, NAHB
- 1.0 LU HSW
This course will take a look at a study done on Energy, Environmental and Economic Analysis of Residential Water Heating Systems. This study provides an energy, environmental, and economic analysis of 11 residential water heating systems in 10 geographic locations throughout the United States, with emphasis on the performance of propane-based systems relative to alternatives. The objective of the study is to compare the different performance and economic characteristics of water heating systems to inform builder, contractor, and homeowner decisions on water-heater selection. Take the course.
- Posted:
- November 2010
- Sponsor:
- Propane Education and Research Council
- Certification(s):
- AIA, NAHB, NARI, USGBC