Data Logging w/ Collin Olson and Eric Kaiser

Collin Olson, the staff physicist of The Energy Conservatory (TEC), joins Eric Kaiser at AHR 2022 to talk a bit about data logging.

Data logging refers to the act of using sensors to record data over time and then analyzing that data. TEC dipped its toes into data logging with the APT and then TECLOG. Data logging allows us to take and store multiple readings as well as extrapolate data into graphs, making it easier to analyze performance. The TECLOG4 software is the most up-to-date version.

TECLOG is a simple software to use with basic training. The understanding of building science continues over a lifetime, but the actual software can be learned in approximately 30 minutes. TECLOG is free with TEC’s hardware, such as the DG-1000. To get started, all you need is a precision manometer and a computer.

However, it’s worth nothing that the DG-1000 stores a lot of data, meaning that you can launch data logging sessions on the gauge without your computer.

Some of the most important measurements are related to drafts and backdrafting. There are 250 Pascals in an inch of water column, and the DG-1000 can pick up very small changes in the Pascals and can indicate when depressurization happens and when it poses a risk. Improperly installed vents can also produce alarming drafting conditions due to air density; data logging can pick up that sort of information.

Collin and Eric also discuss:

• The history of TEC’s APT
• Wind and its effect on building pressures
• Event markers and hotkeys
• The link between depressurization, flue gases, and weather conditions
• Managing multiple blower doors at a time

Check out TEC’s software, including TECLOG4, at https://energyconservatory.com/downloads/.

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