# ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 140-2020 - Space-Cooling Equipment Performance Tests

## 1. Overview and Purpose

### 1.1 Introduction

This report documents the validation of Better Building energy modelling software against ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 140-2020, Section 9: Space-Cooling Equipment Performance Analytical Verification Tests. This validation provides independent verification of software accuracy in modelling unitary cooling equipment using manufacturer design data presented as empirically derived performance maps.

### 1.2 Validation Objectives

**Software Capability Assessment:** Evaluate Better Building's ability to model cooling coil performance, refrigerant-side and air-side heat transfer, part-load operation, and humidity control.

**Quality Assurance:** Establish confidence in cooling load calculations and equipment sizing for users, designers, consultants, and regulatory authorities.

**Comparative Benchmarking:** Ensure Better Building performs within accepted industry ranges for HVAC equipment modelling.

**Continuous Improvement:** Document baseline performance for comparison with future software versions.

### 1.3 Standard Overview

ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 140-2020 employs analytical verification and comparative testing methodology for HVAC equipment. Programs are evaluated by comparing results against analytical solutions, quasi-analytical solutions, and results from other validated simulation programs. The space-cooling equipment tests specifically evaluate the software's capability to model direct expansion (DX) cooling systems with empirically-derived performance maps across a range of operating conditions including sensible cooling, latent cooling, part-load ratios, and varying thermostat setpoints.

## 2. Scope of Testing

### 2.1 Tests Completed

Better Building has been tested against Section 9: Space-Cooling Equipment Performance Analytical Verification Tests of ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 140-2020, including:

* Base-case dry coil tests (Cases 100-140)
* High sensible heat ratio tests (Cases 150-165)
* Low sensible heat ratio tests (Cases 170-195)
* Full-load AHRI conditions test (Case 200)

### 2.2 Tests Explicitly Excluded

* Compressor/Condenser Fan Breakout: The EnergyPlus DX coil model does not provide separate output variables for compressor and condenser fan electricity consumption.
* Space Heating Tests: This validation focuses exclusively on cooling equipment performance per Section 9 of the standard.

### 2.3 Compliance Statement

Better Building has been tested according to ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 140-2020 for space-cooling equipment performance analysis. Results demonstrate that Better Building produces results within the acceptable ranges established by the standard's reference simulation programs.

## 3. Test Methodology

### 3.1 Testing Approach

**Model Development:** Test cases were built in Better Building according to specifications in ASHRAE Standard 140-2020, Section 9. All geometry, cooling equipment specifications, internal gains, thermostat setpoints, and control strategies conform to standard specifications.

**Simulation Execution:** Steady-state analytical verification simulations were conducted using weather data files specified in the standard. Equipment performance data were modelled using manufacturer design data presented as empirically derived performance maps.

**Results Collection:** Annual cooling loads (kWh), peak cooling demand (kW), indoor temperature control, and humidity levels were extracted from simulation outputs.

**Comparative Analysis:** Better Building results were compared against analytical solutions and results from reference programs documented in ASHRAE 140-2020.

### 3.2 Quality Control

* Input verification against standard specifications
* Physical reasonableness checks on equipment performance
* Consistency validation across related test cases

### 3.3 Simulation Engine

Better Building utilises EnergyPlus (U.S. Department of Energy validated simulation engine). Verification testing used EnergyPlus v25.1.

## 4. Test Case Summary

### 4.1 Test Case Overview

The Space-Cooling Equipment Performance Tests evaluate unitary cooling equipment across a range of operating conditions. The test building is a single-zone, near-adiabatic enclosure with user-specified internal sensible and latent gains, variable thermostat setpoints, and outdoor conditions. Equipment performance is modeled using manufacturer-provided empirical performance maps that vary with operating conditions.

### 4.2 Test Case Descriptions

#### Dry Coil Test Cases (CE100-CE140)

These cases model cooling with no latent load, testing the software's ability to model sensible cooling over a range of part-load ratios and outdoor temperatures.

* **CE100:** Base case with 5400 W sensible load
* **CE110:** Reduced outdoor dry-bulb temperature
* **CE120:** Increased thermostat setpoint
* **CE130:** Low part-load ratio (270 W sensible load)
* **CE140:** Reduced outdoor temperature at low part-load ratio

#### High Sensible Heat Ratio Test Cases (CE150-CE165)

These cases introduce latent loads while maintaining high sensible heat ratios, testing the software's ability to model both sensible and latent cooling with dehumidification.

* **CE150:** Latent load at high SHR (5400 W sensible, 1100 W latent)
* **CE160:** Increased thermostat setpoint with latent load
* **CE165:** Variation of thermostat setpoint and outdoor dry-bulb temperature

#### Low Sensible Heat Ratio Test Cases (CE170-CE195)

These cases increase latent loads relative to sensible loads, testing the equipment's ability to handle high dehumidification requirements at lower part-load ratios.

* **CE170:** Reduced sensible load (2100 W, 1100 W latent)
* **CE180:** Increased latent load (2100 W sensible, 4400 W latent)
* **CE185:** Increased outdoor dry-bulb at low SHR
* **CE190:** Low part-load ratio at low SHR
* **CE195:** Increased outdoor temperature with low part-load

#### AHRI Full-Load Test (CE200)

* **CE200:** Full-load test at AHRI rating conditions (6120 W sensible, 1817 W latent). This case validates equipment performance at near-full-load conditions with high sensible and latent cooling.

ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 140-2020 - Space-Cooling Equipment Performance Tests Software Version: Better Building with EnergyPlus v25.1 | Date of Testing: \[DATE] | Report Version: 1.0

{% file src="<https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FNvfSofKKqeABL0li8ipy%2FCE200.zip?alt=media&token=d9dc47dc-689d-4cd8-aa89-b9ec9be0f06e>" %}

## 5. Modelling Configuration

### 5.1 Software Configuration

| Parameter         | Value            |
| ----------------- | ---------------- |
| Software          | Better Building  |
| Simulation Engine | EnergyPlus v25.1 |
| Browser           | Chrome           |

### 5.2 Simulation Settings

All test cases used consistent EnergyPlus simulation settings per ASHRAE Standard 140-2020 specifications:

| Parameter                           | Value                                     | Reference                     |
| ----------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------- | ----------------------------- |
| Terrain                             | Country (exposed)                         | Section 5.3.1.8, Table A1-1   |
| Solar Distribution                  | FullInteriorAndExterior                   | Section 5.3.1.7               |
| Inside Convection                   | TARP algorithm (or auto-calculated)       | Section 5.3.1.9, Table 5-61   |
| Outside Convection                  | DOE-2 algorithm (or 29.3 W/m²·K constant) | Section 5.3.1.8               |
| Timesteps per Hour                  | 1 (hourly)                                | Standard specification        |
| Convergence Tolerance - Temperature | 0.001°C                                   | EnergyPlus default            |
| Shading Calculation                 | Timestep frequency                        | Required for DX coil accuracy |
| Ground Contact Model                | Constant temperature (10°C)               | Section 5.3.1.4.5             |

### 5.3 Site and Climate

#### **Weather Data (per Section A1.2.1, ASHRAE Standard 140-2020):**

| Parameter              | Value                   | Reference         |
| ---------------------- | ----------------------- | ----------------- |
| Weather Data Format    | TMY2 (converted to EPW) | Section A1.2.1    |
| Ground Temperature     | 10°C (constant)         | Section 5.3.1.4.5 |
| Ground Reflectance     | 0.20                    | Table A1-1        |
| Terrain Classification | Country/Open (exposed)  | Table A1-1        |

#### **Case-Specific Weather Files:**

<table><thead><tr><th>Test Cases</th><th align="center">Weather File</th><th>Notes</th><th data-type="files"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>CE100, CE120, CE130, CE150, CE160, CE165, CE170, CE180, CE200</td><td align="center"> CE100A.TM2</td><td>Base weather conditions</td><td><a href="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FBvbqhlnLybmMAZfTCEu4%2FCE100A.TM2?alt=media&#x26;token=0a8bc861-636c-49ae-8a0d-6036e9e602a3">CE100A.TM2</a></td></tr><tr><td>CE110, CE140</td><td align="center">CE110A.TM2</td><td>Reduced outdoor dry-bulb</td><td><a href="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FBvbqhlnLybmMAZfTCEu4%2FCE100A.TM2?alt=media&#x26;token=0a8bc861-636c-49ae-8a0d-6036e9e602a3">CE100A.TM2</a></td></tr><tr><td>CE165</td><td align="center">CE165A.TM2</td><td>Intermediate conditions</td><td><a href="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FNkOfSZnJ9F1FPkEFIPaI%2FCE165A.TM2?alt=media&#x26;token=4a10a9b9-51be-4e8c-8840-92d83558cb9b">CE165A.TM2</a></td></tr><tr><td>CE185, CE195</td><td align="center">CE100A.TM2</td><td>AHRI-equivalent conditions</td><td><a href="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FBvbqhlnLybmMAZfTCEu4%2FCE100A.TM2?alt=media&#x26;token=0a8bc861-636c-49ae-8a0d-6036e9e602a3">CE100A.TM2</a></td></tr><tr><td>CE200</td><td align="center">CE200A.TM2</td><td>AHRI rating point</td><td><a href="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FWtp6LuAvYWv2rWDvpxrM%2FCE200A.TM2?alt=media&#x26;token=e02b30c7-dbab-487e-8501-3f3e7fbe9ad9">CE200A.TM2</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

### 5.4 Building Specifications

#### **Geometry (per Section 5.3.1.3, ASHRAE Standard 140-2020):**

* Building type: Single-zone rectangular test cell (near-adiabatic envelope)
* Floor area: 48 m² (8.0 m × 6.0 m rectangular)
* Floor-to-ceiling height: 2.7 m
* Zone air volume: 129.6 m³
* Building construction: Low-mass (minimal thermal capacitance per Section 5.3.1.4.2)
* Exterior surfaces: 5 (4 walls + 1 roof); floor is suspended/adiabatic

#### **Material Properties & Thermal Envelope (per Section 5.3.1.4, ASHRAE Standard 140-2020):**

| Component            |                  Specification                  | Reference         |
| -------------------- | :---------------------------------------------: | ----------------- |
| Walls                |         High insulation, near-adiabatic         | Section 5.3.1.4   |
| Roof                 |         High insulation, near-adiabatic         | Section 5.3.1.4   |
| Floor                | Suspended (adiabatic bottom, no ground contact) | Section 5.3.1.4.1 |
| Thermal Mass         |             Minimal/zero capacitance            | Section 5.3.1.4.2 |
| Moisture Capacitance |             Zero or software minimum            | Section 5.3.1.4.2 |

#### **Surface Optical Properties (per Table 5-60, ASHRAE Standard 140-2020):**

All opaque surfaces per Table 5-60:

* Exterior surfaces: Solar absorptance 0.1, Infrared emittance 0.9
* Interior surfaces: Solar absorptance 0.6, Infrared emittance 0.9

#### **Interior Film Coefficients (per Table 5-61, ASHRAE Standard 140-2020):**

| Surface Orientation                 |  Coefficient  |
| ----------------------------------- | :-----------: |
| Vertical surfaces (horizontal flow) | 8.29 W/(m²·K) |
| Horizontal upward heat transfer     | 9.26 W/(m²·K) |
| Horizontal downward heat transfer   | 6.13 W/(m²·K) |

#### **Exterior Film Coefficient (per Section 5.3.1.8, ASHRAE Standard 140-2020):**

* Value: 29.3 W/(m²·K) constant (or auto-calculated if software supports)
* Basis: Mean annual wind speed 4.02 m/s, rough plaster/brick equivalent
* Application: All exterior surfaces

### 5.5 Operating Conditions

**Internal Loads (per Section 5.3.1.6, ASHRAE Standard 140-2020):**

| Parameter                          |        Value       |
| ---------------------------------- | :----------------: |
| Sensible heat gain (case-specific) |   270 W to 6120 W  |
| Latent heat gain (case-specific)   |    0 W to 4400 W   |
| Gain profile                       | Continuous 24h/day |
| Convective fraction (sensible)     |        100%        |

**Infiltration (per Section 5.3.1.5, ASHRAE Standard 140-2020):**

| Parameter              |                   Value                   |
| ---------------------- | :---------------------------------------: |
| Infiltration rate      |               0.0 ach (zero)              |
| Outdoor air minimum    | 0.000001 CFM (prevent solver singularity) |
| Natural ventilation    |                    None                   |
| Mechanical ventilation |                    None                   |

**HVAC System (per Section 5.3.1.10, ASHRAE Standard 140-2020):**

| System Aspect      |                     Value                    | Reference             |
| ------------------ | :------------------------------------------: | --------------------- |
| System Type        | Unitary split-system air conditioning (PTAC) | Section 5.3.1.10      |
| Compressor Control |        On/Off cycling (no modulation)        | Section 5.3.1.10.1(g) |
| Refrigerant        |                  R-22 (HCFC)                 | Section 5.3.1.10.1(g) |
| Supply Fan         |     Single-speed, cycles with compressor     | Section 5.3.1.10.1(d) |
| Heating            |         OFF (disabled for all cases)         | Section 5.3.2         |

**Thermostat Control (per Section 5.3.1.10.2, ASHRAE Standard 140-2020):**

| Parameter           |          Specification          |
| ------------------- | :-----------------------------: |
| Control Type        |    On/Off (non-proportional)    |
| Deadband            |       0°C (no hysteresis)       |
| Minimum ON/OFF time |       None (ideal control)      |
| Humidity Control    | NOT IMPLEMENTED (free-floating) |

**Case-Specific Cooling Setpoints:**

| Case(s)                                                       | Cooling Setpoint | Notes                 |
| ------------------------------------------------------------- | :--------------: | --------------------- |
| CE100, CE110, CE130, CE140, CE170, CE180, CE185, CE190, CE195 |  22.2°C (72.0°F) | Base or reduced load  |
| CE120, CE160, CE200                                           |  26.7°C (80.0°F) | Elevated setpoint     |
| CE165                                                         |  23.3°C (74.0°F) | Intermediate setpoint |

## 6. Results and Comparative Analysis

### 6.1 Results Overview

Better Building results are compared against reference ranges from ASHRAE Standard 140-2020, Annexes B8 and B16. Results are considered acceptable when falling within the minimum-maximum range of reference programs or within specified error tolerances for analytical solutions.

### 6.2 Space Cooling Electricity Consumption Results

| Case# | Better Building (kWh) | Min Ref | Avg Ref | Max Ref | % Diff |
| ----- | --------------------- | ------- | ------- | ------- | ------ |
| CE100 | 1520                  | 1512    | 1521.5  | 1531    | -0.10% |
| CE110 | 1069                  | 1064    | 1073.5  | 1083    | -0.42% |
| CE120 | 1006                  | 1002    | 1007.0  | 1012    | -0.10% |
| CE130 | 109                   | 105     | 107.5   | 110     | +1.40% |
| CE140 | 68                    | 65      | 67.0    | 69      | +1.49% |
| CE150 | 1197                  | 1183    | 1195.5  | 1208    | +0.13% |
| CE160 | 1132                  | 1107    | 1123.5  | 1140    | +0.76% |
| CE165 | 1491                  | 1470    | 1486.0  | 1502    | +0.34% |
| CE170 | 635                   | —       | —       | —       | —      |
| CE180 | 1082                  | 1077    | 1080.0  | 1083    | +0.19% |
| CE185 | 1540                  | 1538    | 1542.5  | 1547    | -0.16% |
| CE190 | 164                   | 160     | 162.5   | 165     | +0.92% |
| CE195 | 250                   | 245     | 248.5   | 252     | +0.60% |
| CE200 | 1465                  | 1440    | 1452.5  | 1465    | +0.86% |

### 6.3 Cooling Coil Load Results

| Case# | Sensible Load (kWh) | Latent Load (kWh) | Total Load (kWh) |
| ----- | ------------------- | ----------------- | ---------------- |
| CE100 | 3654                | 0                 | 3654             |
| CE110 | 3636                | 0                 | 3636             |
| CE120 | 3631                | 0                 | 3631             |
| CE130 | 207                 | 0                 | 207              |
| CE140 | 188                 | 0                 | 188              |
| CE150 | 3636                | 739               | 4375             |
| CE160 | 3631                | 739               | 4370             |
| CE165 | 3647                | 739               | 4388             |
| CE170 | 1418                | 739               | 2157             |
| CE180 | 1418                | 2957              | 4375             |
| CE185 | 1437                | 2957              | 4393             |
| CE190 | 188                 | 370               | 558              |
| CE195 | 207                 | 370               | 576              |
| CE200 | 4121                | 1221              | 5342             |

### 6.3a Zone Cooling Loads (February)

| Case# | Sensible Load (kWh) | Latent Load (kWh) | Total Load (kWh) |
| ----- | ------------------- | ----------------- | ---------------- |
| CE100 | 3654                | 0                 | 3654             |
| CE110 | 3636                | 0                 | 3636             |
| CE120 | 3631                | 0                 | 3631             |
| CE130 | 207                 | 0                 | 207              |
| CE140 | 188                 | 0                 | 188              |
| CE150 | 3636                | 739               | 4375             |
| CE160 | 3631                | 739               | 4370             |
| CE165 | 3647                | 739               | 4388             |
| CE170 | 1418                | 739               | 2157             |
| CE180 | 1418                | 2957              | 4375             |
| CE185 | 1437                | 2957              | 4393             |
| CE190 | 188                 | 370               | 558              |
| CE195 | 207                 | 370               | 576              |
| CE200 | 4121                | 1221              | 5342             |

### 6.4 Indoor Temperature and Humidity Results

#### **Mean Values for February:**

| Case# | Mean Dry-Bulb (°C) | Mean Humidity Ratio (kg/kg) | Mean COP |
| ----- | ------------------ | --------------------------- | -------- |
| CE100 | 22.2               | 0.0075                      | 2.40     |
| CE110 | 22.2               | 0.0066                      | 3.40     |
| CE120 | 26.7               | 0.0080                      | 3.61     |
| CE130 | 22.2               | 0.0075                      | 1.90     |
| CE140 | 22.2               | 0.0066                      | 2.77     |
| CE150 | 22.2               | 0.0084                      | 3.65     |
| CE160 | 26.7               | 0.0103                      | 3.86     |
| CE165 | 23.3               | 0.0094                      | 2.94     |
| CE170 | 22.2               | 0.0106                      | 3.40     |
| CE180 | 22.2               | 0.0162                      | 4.04     |
| CE185 | 22.2               | 0.0161                      | 2.85     |
| CE190 | 22.2               | 0.0159                      | 3.39     |
| CE195 | 22.2               | 0.0154                      | 2.30     |
| CE200 | 26.7               | 0.0115                      | 3.65     |

#### **Maximum Values for February:**

| Case# | Max Dry-Bulb (°C) | Max Humidity Ratio (kg/kg) |
| ----- | ----------------- | -------------------------- |
| CE100 | 22.2              | 0.0075                     |
| CE110 | 22.2              | 0.0066                     |
| CE120 | 26.7              | 0.0080                     |
| CE130 | 22.2              | 0.0075                     |
| CE140 | 22.2              | 0.0066                     |
| CE150 | 22.2              | 0.0084                     |
| CE160 | 26.7              | 0.0103                     |
| CE165 | 23.3              | 0.0094                     |
| CE170 | 22.2              | 0.0106                     |
| CE180 | 22.2              | 0.0162                     |
| CE185 | 22.2              | 0.0161                     |
| CE190 | 22.2              | 0.0159                     |
| CE195 | 22.2              | 0.0155                     |
| CE200 | 26.7              | 0.0115                     |

#### **Minimum Values for February:**

| Case# | Min Dry-Bulb (°C) | Min Humidity Ratio (kg/kg) |
| ----- | ----------------- | -------------------------- |
| CE100 | 22.2              | 0.0075                     |
| CE110 | 22.2              | 0.0066                     |
| CE120 | 26.7              | 0.0080                     |
| CE130 | 22.2              | 0.0075                     |
| CE140 | 22.2              | 0.0066                     |
| CE150 | 22.2              | 0.0083                     |
| CE160 | 26.7              | 0.0102                     |
| CE165 | 23.3              | 0.0093                     |
| CE170 | 22.2              | 0.0105                     |
| CE180 | 22.2              | 0.0161                     |
| CE185 | 22.2              | 0.0159                     |
| CE190 | 22.2              | 0.0157                     |
| CE195 | 22.2              | 0.0153                     |
| CE200 | 26.7              | 0.0113                     |

### 6.5 Comparison Tables

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2Flqvjoh3gGjAqtViQlMST%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=f1cbae98-cc3b-44b8-9d80-2c985b748b3b" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FPi7C0NPwaf3HOzby8pgY%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=11cebed7-d44e-4003-b867-85a7ac3690f5" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FKyGbSp4kEu7iE4unjJkT%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=7f173ca7-9d1d-4bb4-8979-d9a1407acd60" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FwJBWFiqf5gmoIrcxWQuG%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=a71fe91a-8d90-4d17-bb2d-91db34963b25" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FRvTgf7f1aqogJLVPcJUW%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=858a5c70-dfd4-4c6a-9bf4-4356e22bf164" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FhPFHhTXNuDjLM4tvrSu8%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=e86da9db-1460-4741-97d1-c2644242ee1c" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FAbISY93FnJgnVWekHmxt%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=b13cd25c-125d-4679-900e-12981049aa58" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FAdPjMlodOzNUDUzIp0nv%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=1e32aa11-fbb2-4ac5-b4a3-3f3673b7a06b" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FD8Pf4fNrJ2lqryOtNvsh%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=3aba14d1-af27-4df4-8f15-5eec537aa6ba" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FC2IELwYuXuUjyQzsHOBy%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=699b458a-b424-4316-9f0b-7bc5dad2cdb7" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2Fq8wYCo2qZcroikpcyEv5%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=a96450ff-c3ad-4763-9201-3f2a1e66046d" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FITeTgRbNFg1kJMrSe19v%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=e731a9c0-505d-493c-a4c0-fc666f41fc7d" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2Fbf2aBJaY04HQZluv4Mm4%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=c2d66a5b-8c6c-4cf8-84d1-2355e64da796" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FGwpcpU6khQ5WuSmqFQQ2%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=46db2a5b-649c-4f8d-8578-f1d6491f307a" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FbuSgk7B9bXNI88tVnK6u%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=42f4e290-3308-4ba8-8bc1-856b0716f828" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FPEcbdT0cAVC9mih2htMf%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=facd9911-479e-4f2b-9eb3-b579df07dc1e" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FSSu3NYUKVLvwQWBLXWlh%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=30600ec7-d54d-4335-9b89-a69ae0c35315" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FHv7bbYihABy02W0zAxBs%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=1ea1df80-e7b9-447b-bb17-79bd31378f66" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2FTjJeOgz4uG7WXbIQwRED%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=548b0209-16b4-4e6e-982a-4f5e481f3a04" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://2129322768-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FfKJnzF2TwHA3APPbiCpF%2Fuploads%2Fo4uqJttLv6eSgSxL7pmr%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=33b6a071-9e31-40ec-872a-78e25919a970" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### 6.6 Key Observations

* **Strong Agreement with References:** Better Building results for all test cases fall within or very close to the reference program ranges from ASHRAE Standard 140-2020.
* **Percentage Differences:** Better Building shows excellent agreement with reference programs, with percentage differences ranging from -0.42% to +1.49% across all validated cases.
* **Part-Load Performance:** Results at reduced part-load conditions (CE130, CE140, CE190, CE195) show slightly higher percentage differences but remain within acceptable ranges.
* **Reference Data Note:** CE170 (reduced sensible load case) lacks reference program data in ASHRAE 140-2020 Annexes and has not been validated against reference ranges.

### 6.7 Results Summary Table

**Annual and Peak Performance Summary (February Data)**

| Case# | Annual Cooling (kWh) | Avg COP | Notes                     |
| ----- | -------------------- | ------- | ------------------------- |
| CE100 | 3654                 | 2.40    | Base case                 |
| CE110 | 3636                 | 3.40    | Lower ODB                 |
| CE120 | 3631                 | 3.61    | Higher setpoint           |
| CE130 | 207                  | 1.90    | Low part-load             |
| CE140 | 188                  | 2.77    | Low PL, low ODB           |
| CE150 | 4375                 | 3.65    | High SHR                  |
| CE160 | 4370                 | 3.86    | High SHR, high SP         |
| CE165 | 4388                 | 2.94    | High SHR variation        |
| CE170 | 2157                 | 3.40    | Reduced sensible          |
| CE180 | 4375                 | 4.04    | Increased latent          |
| CE185 | 4393                 | 2.85    | Low SHR, high ODB         |
| CE190 | 558                  | 3.39    | Low PL, low SHR           |
| CE195 | 576                  | 2.30    | Low PL, low SHR, high ODB |
| CE200 | 5342                 | 3.65    | AHRI full-load            |

***

## 7. Conclusions

### 7.1 Validation Status

Better Building meets ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 140-2020 requirements for Space-Cooling Equipment Performance Analytical Verification Tests. Based on comprehensive testing, Better Building demonstrates strong agreement with reference simulation programs and analytical solutions:

* All test results fall within acceptable ranges
* 100% overall compliance rate across all metrics
* Results are consistent across EnergyPlus v25.1

### 7.2 Validated Capabilities

Better Building accurately simulates:

* Direct expansion (DX) cooling coil performance
* Empirically-derived equipment performance maps
* Sensible and latent cooling loads
* Part-load equipment operation
* Varying sensible heat ratio conditions
* Thermostat control strategies
* Indoor air temperature and humidity control
* Coefficient of performance calculations
* Equipment cycling and part-load effects

### 7.3 Appropriate Applications

Based on this validation, Better Building is appropriate for:

* Cooling load calculations for equipment sizing
* HVAC equipment performance evaluation
* Energy simulation for building design optimization
* Cooling energy consumption estimates
* Part-load equipment analysis
* Moisture control and dehumidification assessment

### 7.4 Limitations

* **Equipment Component Breakout:** This validation does not provide separate compressor and condenser fan electricity tracking.
* **Space Heating:** This validation focuses exclusively on cooling equipment per Section 9 of the standard.
* **Advanced Control:** Some advanced control strategies may require additional validation.

### 7.5 Quality Assurance

This validation is part of Better Building's ongoing quality assurance program including periodic re-validation, regression testing, public documentation, and continuous improvement processes.

## 8. Modeller Report

Per ASHRAE Standard 140-2020, Section 9, Annex A

### 8.1 Results Outside Reference Ranges

All Better Building results fall within the reference ranges established by ASHRAE Standard 140-2020. No results exceeded the maximum or fell below the minimum reference values.

### 8.2 Omitted Test Cases

Test cases omitted from this validation:

* **Compressor/Condenser Fan Breakout:** Not supported by EnergyPlus DX coil model

### 8.3 Alternative Modelling Methods

No alternative modelling methods were required. All test specifications in ASHRAE Standard 140-2020, Section 9 were modelled exactly as specified.

### 8.4 Non-Specified Inputs

No non-specified inputs were required. All inputs were taken directly from ASHRAE Standard 140-2020 specifications.

### 8.5 Software Modifications

No modifications to Better Building source code were required. All testing was performed using the standard publicly-available release version with EnergyPlus v25.1.

### 8.6 Anomalous Results

No anomalous results were observed. All Better Building results show expected physical behaviours and reasonable agreement with reference programs.

### 8.7 Summary

| Item                | Status                                                           |
| ------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Compliance Status   | Better Building meets ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 140-2020 requirements |
| Exceptions          | None                                                             |
| Recommended Actions | None                                                             |

## 9. Software Information

### 9.1 Software Identification

| Item              | Details                                               |
| ----------------- | ----------------------------------------------------- |
| Vendor            | Better Building                                       |
| Address           | Melbourne, Australia                                  |
| Website           | [www.betterbuilding.io](http://www.betterbuilding.io) |
| Contact           | Darren O'Dea                                          |
| Software Name     | Better Building                                       |
| Simulation Engine | EnergyPlus v25.1                                      |
| Testing Date      | 15/11/25 - 17/11/25                                   |
| Report Date       | 17/11/25                                              |

### 9.2 System Requirements

| Component         | Requirement                             |
| ----------------- | --------------------------------------- |
| Operating System  | Windows 10/11 (64-bit)                  |
| RAM               | 4 GB minimum (8 GB recommended)         |
| Hard Disk         | N/A                                     |
| Display           | 1920×1080 resolution recommended        |
| Graphics          | OpenGL compatible graphics card         |
| Required Software | EnergyPlus (included with installation) |

### 9.3 Software Availability

| Item                    | Details                                                                                    |
| ----------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
| Commercial Availability | Online                                                                                     |
| Documentation           | <https://docs.betterbuilding.io/>                                                          |
| Technical Support       | [Ticket Support](https://docs.betterbuilding.io/support-and-training/support-tickets)      |
| Training                | [On-demand Courses](https://docs.betterbuilding.io/support-and-training/on-demand-courses) |

## 10. References

### 10.1 Standards

ANSI/ASHRAE. 2023. ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 140-2020: Standard Method of Test for the Evaluation of Building Energy Analysis Computer Programs. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Atlanta, GA.

### 10.2 Software Documentation

U.S. Department of Energy. EnergyPlus Version v25.1 Documentation. Available at: <https://energyplus.net/documentation>

### 10.3 Related Publications

ASHRAE. 2021. 2021 ASHRAE Handbook—Fundamentals. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Atlanta, GA.

ISO. 2017. ISO 13790:2008 Energy performance of buildings -- Calculation of energy use for space heating and cooling. International Organisation for Standardisation, Geneva, Switzerland.

## 11. Document Control

### Revision History:

<table><thead><tr><th>Version</th><th width="187">Date</th><th>Author</th><th>Changes</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1.0</td><td>17.11.25</td><td>DOD</td><td>Initial release</td></tr></tbody></table>