Action Steps

Set up building operations training to ensure that on-going operation of HVAC systems will meet ASHRAE-55.

As a best practice, ensure that O&M manuals include the following:

• General and specific instructions on the maintenance and operation of controls
• Seasonal settings and changeovers
• Limits in the adjustment of manual controls
• Maintenance and inspection schedule for all thermal and other environmental and thermal condition-related building systems.

Complete all required LEED documentation and upload to LEED Online:

• ASHRAE 6.1.1 documentation
• Thermal comfort variables and established comfort zone
• Calculation results (dependent on chosen methodology)

Include the following information on the LEED Online submittal template:

• Seasonal operating ranges to be maintained
• A narrative describing the project’s approach to complying with       
• ASHRAE-55 including information about mechanical systems, natural ventilation strategies and any special considerations.

Consider providing additional information about any of the variables that effected your calculations, including: 

Pick the best calculation method for demonstrating credit achievement. Document EQc7.1 using a Predicted Mean Vote/Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfied (PMV/PPD) calculation, ASHRAE comfort tool, or a psychrometric comfort zone chart from ASHRAE-55. The method you pick will likely be determined by the preference and past experience of the mechanical engineer. (See the Resources tab for software options).

List all spaces and occupancy types for the project on LEED Online. Indicate the kind and number of controls available in each of those spaces and provide a brief description of the control system in each space type. Identify any spaces or occupants that do not have individual controls and list those as well. 

If using operable windows, locate as many people as possible close to them. The credit allows you to count a person as having access to an operable window if they are within a 20-foot depth and a 10-foot length from one. The operable portion of the window must also be at least 4% of the size of the floor area of the space accessible to a given window, per ASHRAE 62.1-2004. For example, for a 5-foot-long window plus 10 feet on either side the total qualifying floor area would be 25 (5 + 10 + 10) multiplied by 20, or 500 ft2.

For individually occupied spaces, identify the total number of workstations anticipated to be in each space per the project

For Exemplary Performance credits, you will need to provide the same information as listed above but you can take the exact language from the Rating System. It is generally a good idea to include the LEED Submittal Template for the credit here too.

For Innovation in Design credits, documentation includes:

• Title and a statement of intent for the proposed credit.
• Environmental benefits associated with your approach.
• Requirements proposed for your project to comply.
• A narrative of the strategies employed by the project to meet the above intent and requirements.
• Upload any related documents, plans, or product cut sheets associated with the strategy