ARLINGTON, VA — The industry-standard residential HVACR load calculation manual, Manual J™, has been revised and expanded for the first time in over 15 years, and the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) has scheduled a series of three-day “Instructor Certification Workshops” around the country to train contractors and trainers in the new procedure.

The eighth edition of Manual J, published by ACCA, contains greater flexibility and sensitivity to new construction materials and methods that have become prevalent since the 1980s, says the association. Included are:

  • Improved equipment sizing loads for single-family detached homes, small multi-unit structures, condos, townhouses, and manufactured homes.

  • Compatibility with new applications and comfort systems such as central single-zone systems, central multi-zone systems, and dwellings with limited or no exposure diversity.

  • Accommodation of homes with such features and lifestyle accessories as rooms with large glass areas, solariums, and customized internal load estimates.

    Manual J is required by many building codes around the country in the design and installation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. It has also been endorsed by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

    During the Instructor Certification Workshops, attendees will learn from ACCA technical manual author, Hank Rutkowski, for three days, including one day of software application training and demonstration. Attendees will then be tested and certified in Manual J load calculation.

    The workshop schedule is: Chicago, IL (August 20-22, 2002); Los Angeles, CA (September 10-12, 2002); Dallas, TX (September 17-19, 2002); Orlando, FL (October 22-24, 2002); and Salt Lake City, UT (January 9-11, 2003).

    Registration is $750 for ACCA members and $850 for non-members, and includes the workshop, materials, and a copy of Manual J and demo software. Online registration is available at www.acca.org, or call 703-575-4477.

    Manual J, Eighth Edition, is also available for purchase, at a cost of $79 for members, $179 for non-members. The manuals may be purchased online at www.acca.org or by calling ACCA’s catalog line at 888-290-2220.

    Publication date: 07/22/2002