Clarification for Sustainable HVAC Design

[Golestan]

Hi,
I am back from ASHRAE in NYC, the buzz word this year is of course Green and Sustainable Design. It would be beneficial for our forum to get some definitions and examples of this topic. I for one want to know more on the sustainability issue and how to apply it to HVAC design.

thanks,

 

[GMcD]

Use less and less HVAC "stuff", it's that simple. OK, how you may ask....?

By learning all about where the heating and cooling loads come from in a building (building physics) and beating up architects to make them use much higher performance envelope designs, glass and wall specifications, and use exterior shading, double skin facades, etc. to reduce the loads, then reduce the loads, then reduce the loads (clear yet?).

Energy efficient (and sustainable HVAC) buildings must rely on more passive, low-tech solutions to reduce life-cycle costs, reduce maintenance requirements, reduce energy consumption, reduce "consumables" (filters, chemical treatment, replacement parts and components, etc.)

Durability of systems and building components is a big issue - sustainable long-life building systems and finishes need to be used. No more "25 year lifespan then tear it down" buildings - design a building so it can be used for many uses and occupancies during it's life.

Learn how to apply low level air supply systems like 100% DOAS Displacement Ventilation systems that basically remove about half of the room cooling loads via the stratified air layer and the physics of the low level air supply compared to fully mixed overhead air delivery systems.

 

[RossABQ]

The final step in GMcD's process is to get the client to pay for all that extra design work! That is the real challenge.

 

[PatBethea]

The first place to start should be to scrap 62.1. Or at least get ASHRAE to admit that it shouldn't be applied the same across the board - the introduction of outside air in the South is the biggest waste of energy I can think of.

 

[Golestan]

Thank you all for your comments. They are all important issues.

 

[ChrisConley]

Who needs fresh air anyhow! Think of the energy we could save... seal up the building tight as a drum, no fresh air.

Wonder if there would be any problems?