Abstract
This page is intended to be used as a resource for selecting building energy modeling software solutions. Most software packages perform very specific tasks, suggesting that a number of different packages be used to obtain accurate results for a desired project. Not all software packages are free of charge, but often demos may be obtained. Please refer to each package's corresponding link for more information.
Software Comparison
The following chart compares a number of available software packages. Open source packages are noted under the cost column.
References
| Name | Cost/Open Source | Basic Description | Abilities | Outputs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1D-HAM[1] | $420, cheaper school licences are available | 1D-HAM is a piece of software which solves one dimensional coupled heat, air and moisture transport problems in a multi-layered porous wall. | The program is based on the finite difference technique and moisture is assumed to be transferred by diffusion and convection in the vapour phase. Furthermore, it is assumed that no liquid water transport occurs and that heat is transferred via conduction, convection and latent heat. Climatic data can be inputted through a data file (maximum resolution of values/hour/year). Surface solar radiation absorption is also accounted for. | The program can output user defined charts and text output of temperatures, relative humidities and moisture content. The data can be presented in either SI units or in BTU. |