Article #153 - About COMcheck

COMcheck was developed to clarify and simplify commercial building energy codes. The materials focus on code requirements that apply to most small or simple commercial buildings and offer a streamlined process for demonstrating code-equivalent levels of energy efficiency. COMcheck can be used with most commercial energy codes based on ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1-1989/1999/2001/2004 or the 1998, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2004, or 2006 IECC. Contractors and designers who use COMcheck can save time and effort in documenting code compliance. Officials who receive COMcheck certification forms can confidently view these submissions as "deemed to comply" with the code.

COMcheck loading screen.

The software offers an easy-to-understand process for demonstrating compliance with all commercial energy code requirements for envelope, lighting, and mechanical systems. It eliminates calculation tasks other than determining square footages and requires no specialized technical knowledge of commercial codes. When applied to simple buildings, it is self-contained, requiring no additional resources or reference books. Finally, COMcheck uses terminology familiar to the design, construction, and enforcement communities.

COMcheck is intended for commercial buildings. The current software version includes requirements for simple and complex HVAC systems. Infrequently used code provisions, such as credits for automatic lighting controls for day lighting, are not included in COMcheck.

States That Can Use COMcheck For Compliance (1/2008)

Jurisdictions that have adopted or incorporated ASHRAE/IES 90.1-1989/1999/2001/2004 or the 1998, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2004, or 2006 IECC as their code or who have adopted codes based on these codes can use COMcheck. As with any code-related question, the adopting jurisdiction is the final authority.

COMcheck products provides an optional way to demonstrate energy code compliance with commercial and high-rise residential buildings (greater than three stories). You can use COMcheck to demonstrate energy code compliance in the design and construction of most types of commercial and high-rise residential buildings.

Applicable building types include:

The COMcheck software can be downloaded at no cost.