Sensible Heat Gain from People Calculator

Sensible Heat Gain Formula:

\[ QS = qs \times n \times CLF \]

Sensible Heat Gain from People:

1. What is Sensible Heat Gain from People?

Definition: Sensible heat gain from people is the increase in heat per person for the degree or type of activity in the space.

Purpose: It helps HVAC professionals and engineers determine the cooling load required to maintain comfortable conditions in occupied spaces.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ QS = qs \times n \times CLF \]

Where:

\( QS \) — Sensible Heat Gain from People (Watts)
\( qs \) — Sensible Heat Gains per Person (Watts)
\( n \) — Number of People
\( CLF \) — Cooling Load Factor for People (typically 1.2)

Explanation: The sensible heat per person is multiplied by the number of people and adjusted by the cooling load factor to account for time-varying heat gains.

3. Importance of Sensible Heat Gain Calculation

Details: Proper calculation ensures adequate HVAC system sizing, energy efficiency, and occupant comfort in buildings.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the sensible heat per person (W), number of people, and cooling load factor (default 1.2 ±5%). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are typical sensible heat values per person?
A: Values range from 70W (seated at rest) to 300W (heavy work), with office work typically around 100W.

Q2: Why is the cooling load factor needed?
A: It accounts for the fact that peak heat gain from people doesn't coincide with peak building cooling load.

Q3: When would I change the cooling load factor?
A: Adjust based on occupancy patterns - lower for 24/7 occupancy, higher for intermittent use spaces.

Q4: Does this include latent heat gain?
A: No, this calculator only considers sensible heat. Latent heat from perspiration must be calculated separately.

Q5: How accurate is the ±5% range?
A: It accounts for typical variations in activity levels and environmental conditions.