Legacy Comcheck. What You Need to Know
In the ever-evolving world of building energy codes and compliance, older software solutions can sometimes linger, creating a sense of both familiarity and confusion. One such tool is Legacy Comcheck. While it played a pivotal role in the past, understanding its place in today’s landscape is crucial for architects, builders, and contractors.
Comcheck Web is back after Page Not Found Outage
This blog post will delve into the intricacies of Legacy Comcheck, exploring its history, functionality, and its relevance in the face of modern energy code compliance requirements.
What is Legacy Comcheck?
Legacy Comcheck, often referred to simply as “Comcheck,” was a software program developed by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to simplify the process of demonstrating compliance with commercial and residential energy codes. It primarily focused on the prescriptive path of energy code compliance, allowing users to input building component information (walls, roofs, windows, HVAC systems, etc.) and generate a report showing whether the building met the minimum requirements.
IECC Codes (2025) Available in Comcheck Desktop and Comcheck Web
Key Features of Legacy Comcheck:
- Prescriptive Compliance: It primarily focused on the prescriptive path, providing a straightforward way to check if individual building components met the code requirements.
- Simplified Input: The software aimed to simplify the input process, making it accessible to users with varying levels of technical expertise.
- Report Generation: It generated reports that documented the building’s compliance with the relevant energy codes.
Why “Legacy”? The Transition to Modern Tools:
The term “legacy” is used because the DOE has transitioned to newer, more advanced energy code compliance tools. While Legacy Comcheck served its purpose for many years, it has limitations in addressing the complexities of modern building designs and energy codes.
Comcheck Energy Code Chart (2025)
Key Differences Between Legacy Comcheck and Modern Tools:
- Code Updates: Legacy Comcheck may not be updated to reflect the latest versions of energy codes, such as the IECC (International Energy Conservation Code). Modern tools are regularly updated.
- Performance Path: While Legacy Comcheck primarily focused on the prescriptive path, modern tools often offer more robust support for the performance path, which allows for greater design flexibility.
- Advanced Features: Modern tools may include features such as 3D modeling, energy simulation, and integration with other building design software.
- User Interface and Compatibility: Older legacy software can have compatibility issues with modern operating systems. New tools are designed to work within current operating systems.
- Support: Legacy software will have limited to no support. Current software has active support and user guides.
Is Legacy Comcheck Still Relevant?
In most cases, no. Using Legacy Comcheck for new projects is generally discouraged due to:
- Outdated Code Information: It may not accurately reflect current energy code requirements, potentially leading to non-compliance.
- Limited Functionality: It lacks the advanced features and flexibility of modern energy code compliance tools.
- Jurisdictional Acceptance: Many jurisdictions may not accept reports generated by Legacy Comcheck.
What Should You Use Instead?
The DOE recommends using Comcheck Web, which is a free, web-based tool that is regularly updated to reflect the latest energy code requirements. Comcheck Web offers:
- Up-to-date Code Compliance: Ensures compliance with the latest versions of the IECC.
- User-Friendly Interface: Provides an intuitive interface for easy input and report generation.
- Free Access: Available to everyone at no cost.
- Web Based: No need to download and install software.
Other software options may also be available, depending on your specific needs and jurisdiction. It is always best to consult with your local building department to determine the accepted compliance tools.
Conclusion:
While Legacy Comcheck played a significant role in the past, it is essential to embrace modern energy code compliance tools like Comcheck Web. By using up-to-date software, you can ensure compliance with current energy codes, streamline the compliance process, and contribute to a more energy-efficient built environment. Always consult with your local building department to confirm which energy code compliance tools are approved in your area.
If you need a Comcheck created for you email PDF plans, jobsite address, and square footage to comcheck@comcheck.net and we will get you taken care of.
