2,000 sq ft x 8 ft ceilings = 16,000 cubic feet volume inside the house
16,000 cu ft x 1.5 volumes/hour (ACH) = 24,000 cubic feet per hour
24,000 / 60 minutes per hour = 400 CFM of infiltration
Step 2 determine infiltration due to unsealed chimney
400 CFM x 14% air leakage waste due to unsealed chimney = 56 CFM
Step 3 determine cooling energy
0.081 density of air (lb/cu ft) x 0.240 heat capacity of air (BTU/lb °F) x 2008 CDD (°F day) x 56 CFM x 24 hrs/day x 60 min/hr = 3,147,824 BTUs
Step 4 determine heating energy
0.081 density of air (lb/cu ft) x 0.240 heat capacity of air (BTU/lb °F) x 2914 HDD (°F day) x 56 CFM x 24 hrs/day x 60 min/hr = 4,568,108 BTUs
Step 5 determine cooling utility used cool air
3,147,824 BTUs / 15 SEER (BTU/W hr) / 1,000 W/kW = 209.9 kWh per year
Step 6 determine heating utility used heat air
4,568,108 BTUs / 8.2 HSPF (BTU/W hr) / 1,000 W/kW = 557.1 kWh per year
Step 7 determine cooling savings
209.9 kWh x $0.118 = $24.76 per year
Step 8 determine heating savings
557.1 kWh x $0.118 = $65.74 per year
Step 9 determine total savings
209.9 kWh cooling + 557.1 kWh heating = 766.9 kWh total savings per year
$24.76 cooling + $65.74 heating = $90.50 total savings per year
766.9 kWh x 15 = 11,504.1 kWh lifetime savings
$90.50 x 15 = $1,357.49 lifetime savings
Savings calculations are presented as an example of potential savings; actual savings may vary based on use, utility rates and other factors.
Calculations are based on national averages and assumptions and may be adjusted for a more accurate estimate of individual savings.
While EnergyEarth strives to provide the most accurate information, we cannot guarantee the savings displayed.