Window codes are used to determine the performance specifications of the window being modeled.

The Window Details drop down menu allows users to select the applicable window code. Users can select between User-Defined Codes (blue codes), Favourite Codes (red codes), or call up the Code Selector to specify the construction details of the window in question.

In order to create a new window code, Users must open the Code Editor as shown below.

1. Creating User-Defined Codes

The Code Editor consists of the following User-Defined Window Code types, which can be accessed by selecting the hard hat icon.

• Legacy User-Defined Inputs; and
• Overall Window Characteristics

The Legacy User-Defined Inputs screen is identical to the one available in HOT2000 version 10.51, while the Overall Window Characteristics screen is a new feature.

For new housing projects, the recommended modeling approach is to create User-Defined codes using the Overall Window Characteristics type. This enables windows to be modeled more accurately than the Legacy approach (or the Code Selector) permits.

Following are instructions on the inputs required for each screen.

Code Label: Use this field to assign a meaningful name to the code.

Window Type: Specify the window type.

Centre of Glass, Edge of Glass and Frame: Enter the RSI/R-values for each.

Frame Height: Enter the height of the frame.

Centre of Glass Solar Heat Gain Coefficient: Enter the value.

Save changes upon exiting the Code Editor.

In the main interface, the newly created code will be available in the Window Details drop down menu.

Code Label: Use this field to assign a meaningful name to the code.

Glazing Type: Select the glazing type from the drop down.

Overall Thermal Resistance and Resistivity: Specify the unit and enter the RSI/R-value or U-value.

Frame Height and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient: Enter the values for each.

Window Style, Fill Gas and Low-E Coating: Use the drop downs to make the appropriate selections.

Save changes upon exiting the Code Editor.

In the main interface, the newly created code will be available in the Window Details drop down menu.

Most users will have pre-programmed User-defined Codes that are included with HOT2000. These User-defined codes must be used for the following window systems:

• Glass block;
• Metal window with storm;
• Wood window with storm; and
• Tubular daylighting device.

2. Using the Code Selector

The Code Selector window can be launched either through the Window Screen when using the tree view, as described on the previous page, or through the Code Editor by selecting the smiley face icon.

For simulation projects in which a coarse representation of window performance is acceptable, the window details can be specified using the Code Selector in terms of the construction details: glazing type; coatings; gas fill type; spacer type; window type; and frame material. This approach is best suited for existing housing projects where the window energy performance ratings are not known, and only the construction details can be identified.

When using the Code Selector to describe a window, all elements must be characterized.

Codes created using the Code Selector that are frequently used, can be saved as Favourite Codes (red codes).