Building Science Basics – Online Modules – Non Member

Description

Building Science Basics is an introduction to the house as a system with respect to energy efficiency. BSB (or the challenge test) is the prerequisite for other GreenHome Institute program such as GreenStar Qualification online and the GreenHome Associate & Professional designation.

This system is made up of the building envelope, surrounding environment, and occupants. Upon completion you will know how these components are affected by the interactions of heat, air and moisture flow in a house, and how those interactions impact indoor air quality and the need for ventilation.

The course has three modules. At least a 70% grade in the quiz at the end of each module is required to proceed to the next (no limit to quiz attempts).

Once you pass the third module you take the final test.

A grade of at least 70% earns you a Blue House Energy Certificate of Course Completion in both PDF and laminated wallet-sized formats.

Note:

• BSB takes about 9 hours to complete (including reviews, quizzes, etc.)
  
• You have 8 weeks to finish BSB from when you first begin 
• At this time the course is not available for tablets or smartphones. 
• 9 CEs AIA (HSW), GBCI, NARI Green PENDING
• Local & State based contractor / designer license credits may apply – check with your state (MI approved)

Qualifies for: 4.5 BPI Continuing Education Units

Learning Objectives

At the end of the course, you will understand:

• Concept of the ‘House as a System’ and how it relates to building science
• Various ways that heat, air and moisture flows affect a house
• Neutral pressure plane
• Factors that impact indoor air quality
• Methods of evaluating a house for indoor air quality
• Methods of controlling moisture and pollutants in a number of situations
• Need for ventilation
• Three types of ventilation systems
• Signs of combustion spillage
• Radon mitigation procedures

Course Outline

Module 1: House As A System

Heat Flow

• Convection
• Conduction
• Radiation

Air Flow

• Wind effect
• Stack effect
• Combustion/ventilation effect

Moisture Flow

• Liquid water
• Water vapor

Module 2: Indoor Air Quality 

Sources

• Airborne
• Moisture related

Symptoms

• Occupants
• House structure

Solutions

• Eliminate
• Filtrate
• Ventilate

Module 3: Ventilation Requirements 

Why Ventilate?

• Controlling airflow
• Air filtration
• Occupant impacts

Ventilation Systems

• Exhaust only
• Supply only
• Balanced systems

Combustion Spillage

• Causes
• Signs
• Risks

Radon

• Identifying
• Testing
• Controlling