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What is a key characteristic of a building with a low-performance envelope?
High energy efficiency
High operational costs
Low occupant comfort
All of the above
The correct answer is: All of the above
A building with a low-performance envelope is characterized by several negative aspects that contribute to overall inefficiency and discomfort. First, a low-performance envelope typically means that the building has poor insulation, air leaks, and inadequate window performance. This leads to high energy usage, as heating and cooling systems must work harder to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Consequently, high operational costs are a direct result of the increased energy consumption. Moreover, the compromised insulation and air sealing can result in noticeable drafts and temperature fluctuations within the building, leading to reduced occupant comfort. A low-performance envelope does not effectively shield the interior from external environmental conditions, which in turn can affect indoor air quality and overall livability. Thus, all these factors – high energy efficiency, high operational costs, and low occupant comfort – interrelate, making it clear that a building with a low-performance envelope will likely be marked by all of these characteristics. It is essential for energy auditors to recognize these signs when assessing a building's performance.