Agenda - 06-05-2001-9e - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

A redesigned replacement HVAC system has ~ been recommended due to the compartmentalization of former classrooms into much smaller offices and the addition of numerous pieces of heat-generating equipment (computers and peripherals, copiers, etc.). The existing HVAC system design did not anticipate supplying conditioned air to these many small rooms. In addition, HVAC system design in the late 1970's/early 1980s typically attempted to seal the building envelope to the greatest extent possible in order to maximize energy efficiency. Modem designs follow American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) standards for intake of outside air to provide sufficient ventilation for building occupants. HVAC Systems Overview The following section presents a summary of key points concerning HVAC system design and operation that may assist the reader while evaluating the attached report from Robson and Woese. Heating/ventilation/air-conditioning (HVAC) systems circulate and exhaust conditioned air at a prescribed rate of exchange and are crucial to the safety and comfort of a facility. HVAC systems depend on a network of equipment and roams to function properly: All system components must be carefully ,planned and integrated in an effective HVAC system. In designing a system that works, the first consideration always should be the safety, health, and comfort of building occupants. The second concern should be a high standard of efficiency. In building a new HVAC system, much can be learned from whatever system is already in place. Planners should think about what works and what doesn't work in the old HVAC system. Adaptability is also crucial, as whatever system is implemented may have to function safely for thirty years or more. Decision makers should evaluate each individual piece of equipment for a new facility in terms of value and cost, always keeping in mind how all the pieces will work together. 2 The HVAC system includes all heating, -cooling, and ventilation equipment serving a building: furnaces or boilers, chillers, cooling towers, air handling units, exhaust fans, ductwork, filters, steam (or heating water) piping. A properly designed and functioning HVAC system: © provides thermal comfort ^ provides outdoor air to meet the ventilation needs of all occupants o isolates and removes odors and contaminants Thermal Comfort A number of variables interact to determine whether people are comfortable with the temperature of the indoor air. The activity level, age, and physiology of each person affect the thermal comfort requirements of that individual. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air- Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 55-1981 describes the temperature and humidity z http://www,pkal.ora/facility,/spaces/hvac.html, "i=ocusing on Facilities." 7 Prepared: 05/03/2001 C:~My oocumentswbstracts2ool~os-o5-alwvAClntroAttoso5.doc Printed: 05/31/2001