AT-84-11-5 -- Simplified Dimensionless Relations for Heat Loss from Basements PDF

A method is developed for calculating the monthly and annual values of heat loss from basement walls and floors. The overall wall and floor conductances are calculated first. These are determined from a two-dimensional finite element analysis. The numerical values from this analysis are correlated in terms of the governing nondimensional parameters. These conductance values are then combined with a representative ground temperature based on local ambient temperature profiles. The results of this approach compare favorably with those in the ASHRAE Handbook–1981 Fundamentals and more recent studies. The correlations presented are suitable for use with programmable calculators or microcomputers.