IEQ

Somfy Systems manufactures a number of different systems to motorize window coverings and help regulate solar exposure. Their products can be applied to retractable awnings, rolling shutters, exterior screens, and interior shades. The systems are programmable and remote controllable, and can also be controlled via an Internet-based interface. Research suggests that motorized and automated window coverings significantly improve the energy performance of adjustable window coverings, in both homes and commercial buildings.

Okalux light-diffusing glass uses hollow capillary fibers hermetically sealed between sheets of laminated float glass. Distributed in the U.S. by Schott North America, this unique translucent glass prevents glare and shadows yet allows light to shine through while still providing U-factors as low as 0.9 for the company’s Okalux-P glazing (expect higher U-factors for the whole glazing unit). Okalux can be customized to maximize solar heat gain, sound attenuation, and UV protection for use in façades, glass roofs, partitions, and other applications.

Wasco Windows offers Geneo windows, a range of high performance windows made of a glass-fiber reinforced PVC. The windows achieve a U-factor ranging from 0.14–0.17, and meet the Passivhaus standard, according to the company. As with all Wasco windows, Geneo windows feature Cardinal Glass and are available double- or triple-glazed with argon fill and a non-metal spacer for increased thermal performance. Wasco covers Geneo Windows with a lifetime warranty.

The Novus 300 HRV, from Zehnder America, is a high-efficiency, Passivhaus-certified heat-recovery ventilator (HRV). Based on HVI test methods, it achieves an ASEF of 94%–96% and an SRE of 90%–91%, making it the highest performing HRV in the HVI Certified Products Database. The efficiency is thanks in part to an ECM motor. The Novus 300 can move up to 177 cfm, and comes standard with a MERV 7/8 filter, but an optional MERV 13 filter is available. An optional humidity heat exchanger is also available. The Novus 300 comes with a two-year warranty.

The SeriousWindows 600 line of vinyl windows from Serious Energy are available in several styles, including double hung, casement, and sliding. These energy-efficient windows achieve U-factors as low as 0.14, SHGC values ranging from 0.19–0.28, and VT values ranging from 0.38–0.53. The windows have dual weatherstripping for increased airtightness, as well as argon or krypton gas fill and a suspended film for increased thermal performance. SeriousWindows are available in several grille options and frame and hardware colors. Serious Energy offers a lifetime limited warranty and a glass breakage warranty.

Soler & Palau's MixVent inline duct fans, for small- to medium-sized installations, include four models with efficiency of 4 CFM/W or greater: the TD-100x, TD-125, TD-150, and TD-200. The TD-200 pulls more than 250 CFM, as does the TD-150 on its high-speed setting; this can cause depressurization and backdrafts in other appliances, so design accordingly. MixVent fans are mounted on support brackets from which they can be rotated outward for easy cleaning.

Ostberg's CK line of centrifugal duct fans are designed for high pressure and long duct runs. Three models—CK8A, CK10A, and CK12B —provide energy efficiency of 4 CFM/W or greater. All three pull more than 250 CFM, which can cause depressurization and backdrafts in other appliances, so design accordingly.

Raico Passive House Curtainwall systems, distributed in the United States by Peak Building Products, can be timber-, steel-, or aluminum-framed. Certified by the German Passivhaus Institut, these curtainwall systems can achieve overall U-factors as low as 0.125 (R-8), including thermal bridging across framing members. System widths range from 2"–3.8" (50–96 mm). Double- or triple-glazing, with widths ranging from 1.25"–2" (32–52 mm), are available. Glazing panes can be made as large as 5' x 10' (1500 x 3000 mm).

YKK's enerGfacade line of curtainwall and storefront systems combine high performance glazing and a thermally broken frame to achieve relatively high thermal performance. YCW 750 XT ranges in U-factor from 0.17–0.53 depending on the glazing. Glazing options include suspended film glazing and triple-glazing, and infills of 1", 1.5", or 2" are available. The thermally broken struts are glass fiber-reinforced 6/6 nylon polyamide. YKK also offers the YES SSG TU Vent window for commercial storefronts, which has an overall U-factor of 0.41.

Schneider Electric provides residential and commercial lighting control systems, including occupancy sensors, dimmers, controls, touch screens, relay panels, and more. Its Powerlink system is used for industrial, commercial, or large-scale residential use. The Measurement and Verification Panelboards (MVP) monitor energy consumption and demand from circuits through the complete lighting system, review data, measure occupancy and use patterns, generate reports, and trigger alarm notifications. The company also offers complete C-Bus residential systems that incorporate light and occupancy sensors, daylighting controls, and dimming along with touchscreens and keypads. This system can also integrate HVAC, media, irrigation, and security systems.

Hunt Dimming offers full dimming systems, LED controllers, and wallbox dimmers for commercial applications. The company’s Simplicity series is a modular digital dimming system that includes a factory-programmed dimming panel and customizable LCD touchscreen controls, providing control for LED drivers and lamps and as well as daylighting. Hunt also offers basic analog dimmers and a large selection of wallbox dimmers.

Philips offers integrated building automation and lighting control, wireless controls, sensors, dimmers, and components for office, hospitality, restaurant, healthcare and other commercial and residential applications. Products include the Dynalite office lighting and controls; OccuSwitch Wireless devices that integrate with standard wiring; Lyteswitch low-voltage controls; Intellisite occupancy sensors; MultiSet Pro networking system; and more.

PLC Multipoint has been producing sensors and lighting control systems for over 20 years, with four divisions emphasizing indoor and outdoor commercial, sensors, roadway and transportation, and industrial applications. The company’s PLCBuildings division focuses on controls for daylighting and occupancy sensing in offices, schools, garages, and other commercial building applications. Along with products the company also provides engineering, site evaluation, and training.

Lighting Control & Design, a subsidiary of Acuity Brands, offers a wide range of software, switches, sensors, and other lighting control components. The company’s MicroPanel lighting control panel integrates daylighting, dimming, emergency lighting, and more; its Unity software can provide full management of lighting control systems remotely; and it offers wireless switches, photosensors, and receivers.

Eaton offers a wide range of lighting control products including the Pow-R-Command systems. These units are available in different configurations depending on size and application, from a Pow-R-Command 25 that is wired at the factory and doesn’t require field programming, to the Pow-R-Command 2000 that can be accessed via the Internet to program and control lighting in large facilities such as convention centers, schools, and office buildings. The company also offers Pow-R-Command Smart SunLight, an active daylighting system for commercial and educational applications using skylights that incorporate GPS-controlled directional mirrors to track the sun and provide maximum daylighting.