F280 Calculations

What is an F280 and why do I need one?

I’ll keep this post to the point for basic information on the F-280

What is it?

Well put simply enough an F280 is shorthand for the Canadian CSA F-280-12 standard of determining the heating and cooling loads for a residential building. We calculate all aspects of the building envelope and where thermal energy goes, and where it’s needed. For best results we use air tightness testing to verify the actual needs of the building. Air tightness is a huge factor in energy consumption for heating and cooling.

Factored in:

• building envelope assemblies - roof, floors, foundation, walls, windows and doors

• shading analysis (effects the cooling load significantly

• air tightness

• local climate data

Why do we need them?

First of all, it’s code.

BC Building Code 2024 found here

Second, it is the accepted industry standard for properly sizing heating and cooling equipment. Over or under sizing equipment has negative effects on performance, comfort, and budgets. Many HVAC companies will use a Rule-Of-Thumb to size heating and cooling equipment, but that is absolutely not adequate in today’s buildings.

I would be mad if my HVAC contractor used a rule of thumb to put in a system that was 4 ton when the actual needs of the home only required 2.5-3 ton.

Wasted money bothers me though, maybe I’m weird.

Contact us today to have a certified professional model the thermal energy needs of your building.