ENS 253 - Environmentally Friendly Buildings

Course Units: 1.0

Many energy consumption and adverse environmental effects are attributable to buildings and their use. In this course, through instructions, hands-on experience, computer simulation, and research, the students will become acquainted with the inner workings of the subsystems in buildings: foundations, framings, walls, sidings, roof, electrical systems, lighting, appliances, heating, air-conditioning, ventilation, indoor air quality, basement, crawl space, attic, water and moisture management; plumbing, flooring, finishes, furniture, insulation, xeriscaping, and LEED rating system. The students will become aware of indoor and outdoor environmental issues and the life cycle costs of the existing systems. They will also learn the latest science and technology to reduce the negative effect of these subsystems on the environment. Laboratory: hands-on experience with the above subsystems, site visits, Computer simulations, research, projects, and presentations. There are no prerequisites for this course and it is open to all students. Corequisite(s): ENS 253L CC: SET, GDQR, GETS, SCLB ISP: ENS, STS