WSU Energy Program launches Residential Energy Code Calculator

The Washington State University Energy Program has released a new Residential Energy Code Calculator to replace an existing spreadsheet tool. The calculator, available on the WSU Energy Program website, streamlines energy code documentation for residential construction across Washington.

"Our goal was to simplify residential energy code documentation," said Jonathan Jones, energy program coordinator at the WSU Energy Program. "By providing users with a web-based tool, we are making it faster and easier to submit permitting documents with bult-in features for guidance-similar to bowling bumpers-to keep users on track."

Designed to support homeowners, builders, and building officials, the new web-based calculator provides an accessible way to verify compliance with current Washington State Energy Code - Residential standards. The updated tool builds upon the WSU Energy Program's technical support resources, replacing spreadsheet workflows with a user-friendly digital platform.

With this tool, users can:

• Calculate window and door heat loss and overall building insulation performance to meet code.
• Get precise equipment sizing and check mechanical system specifications.
• Create an account to save multiple project profiles and update compliance records.
• Generate reports required by local offices for building permit applications.