Reflective Roof Coatings Improve A/C Efficiency
Video available
Introduction
Located in La Grange, GA, this Best Western Inn had a black EPDM roof with leak problems. EPDM is an inexpensive black roofing material that resembles tire tubes. The system typically lasts 15 years.
|
|
EPDM Roof to be coated at Best Western (left) and new EPDM Roof at IHOP (right) |
A portion of the roof (above IHOP restaurant) was recently re-roofed with a similar EPDM membrane. Since the removal and disposal of EPDM is expensive, the owners sought other methods to solve the leak issues. Energy Seal elastomeric roof coatings are an excellent, environmentally friendly alternative to roof replacement.
This scenario provided the perfect opportunity for us to conduct thermal efficiency studies on both the coated and uncoated sections of the roof.
Objective
1. Determine if a reduction in roof surface temperature reduces intake air temperature going through the roof-top units.
2. Determine if a cooler roof reduces plenum air temperatures above the ceiling.
3. Determine other factors that degrade the effi ciency of the A/C system that translates to higher cooling costs.
