Simulating space heating demand with respect to non-constant heat gains from household electricity

It is crucial to perform energy simulations during the building process to design a building that meets requirements regarding low energy use. In a low energy building, internal heat gains such as excess heat from household electricity are a large part of the heat balance of the building. The internal heat gains depend on the occupants and are not constant, although they are often assumed constant in simulations of space heating demand. This article analyses how different usage patterns of household electricity affects simulated space heating demand. Parametric studies of energy use-related parameters were done to study the influence from different designs. The results show that the different energy use patterns affect the space heating demand, especially in low energy buildings and during the colder parts of the year. To make accurate energy simulations of low energy buildings, household electricity use patterns should be taken into account.