ZeroHouse
Glossary
Knowledge: building physics and autonomy terminology.
Start with the quantity and its unit
A technical term often names a physical quantity rather than a general product quality. Thermal resistance R in m²·K/W and transmittance U in W/(m²·K) describe related but oppositely directed properties. Conductivity λ in W/(m·K) concerns a material under defined conditions. Comparing bare numbers is misleading: a smaller value does not always mean a better characteristic.
Power is not stored energy
A kilowatt describes a rate of energy transfer or consumption; a kilowatt-hour describes an amount accumulated over time. A high-capacity battery can have limited power, and a powerful inverter does not create additional energy. Similarly, peak heating load and annual demand are different quantities. These distinctions help readers interpret calculators and equipment proposals without confusing the tasks they address.
Check the definition boundary
Uw concerns a window, Ug its glazing; n50 concerns a pressure test rather than everyday ventilation. COP applies to specified operating conditions, while a seasonal metric uses a different assessment basis. An abbreviation without method and scope can be ambiguous. Read the definition in the particular standard or datasheet rather than assuming all uses are fully equivalent.
Use the glossary as a reading aid
Find the term, record its unit and the object it describes, then return to the building question. If a number's status as an example, requirement or measurement is unclear, the statement itself needs clarification. Linked guides explain applications and tools provide simple models. The glossary helps formulate precise questions but cannot replace a complete calculation method. Keeping units and boundaries beside the term is often more useful than memorising the abbreviation alone.