corrected ice machine baseline numbers for retail on process water and instructions tabs (v07)
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Credit language
© Copyright U.S. Green Building Council, Inc. All rights reserved.
Requirements
Employ strategies that in aggregate use less water than the water use baseline calculated for the building (not including irrigation). The minimum water savings percentage for each point threshold is as follows:
| % Reduction | Points |
|---|---|
| 30% | 2 |
| 35% | 3 |
| 40% | 4 |
| Commercial Fixtures, Fittings, and Appliances | Current Baseline (Imperial Units) | Current Baseline (Metric units) |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Toilets | 1.6 gallons per flush (gpf)* Except blow-out fixtures: 3.5 (gpf) |
6 liters per flush (lpf) Except blow-out fixtures: 13 lpf |
| Commercial Urinals | 1.0 (gpf) | 4 lpf |
| Commercial Lavatory (Restroom) Faucets | 2.2 gallons per minute (gpm) at 60 pounds per square inch (psi), private applications only (hotel or motel guest rooms, hospital patient rooms) 0.5 (gpm) at 60 (psi)** all others except private applications 0.25 gallons per cycle for metering faucets |
8.5 liters per minute (lpm) at 4 bar (58 psi), private applications only (hotel or motel guest rooms, hospital patient rooms) 2.0 lpm at 4 bar (58 psi), all others except private applications 1 liter per cycle for metering faucets |
| Showerheads | 2.5 (gpm) at 80 (psi) per shower stall **** | 9.5 lpm at 5 bar (58 psi) |
| For projects with commercial pre-rinse spray valves, the flow rate must comply with the asME a112.18.1 standard of 1.6 gpm or less. | ||
| Residential fixtures, fittings, and appliances | Current baseline (imperial units) | Current baseline (metric units) |
|---|---|---|
| Residential toilets | 1.6 (gpf)*** | 6 liters per flush (lpf) Except blow-out fixtures: 13 lpf |
| Residential lavatory (bathroom) faucets | 2.2 (gpm) at 60 psi | 4 lpm 8.5 lpm at 4 bar (58 psi), private applications only (hotel or motel guest rooms, hospital patient rooms) 2.0 lpm at 4 bar (58 psi), all others except private applications 1 liter per cycle for metering faucets |
| Residential kitchen faucet | ||
| Residential showerheads | 2.5 (gpm) at 80 (psi) per shower stall**** | flow rate ≤ 6.1 lpm (no pressure specified; no performance requirement) |
|
* EPAct1992 standard for toilets applies to both commercial and residential models. ** in addition to Epact requirements, the american society of Mechanical Engineers standard for public lavatory faucets is 0.5 gpm at 60 psi (2.0 lpm at 4 bar (58 psi)) (asME a112.18.1-2005). this maximum has been incorporated into the national uniform plumbing Code and the international plumbing Code. *** EPAct 1992 standard for toilets applies to both commercial and residential models. **** residential shower compartment (stall) in dwelling units: the total allowable flow rate from all flowing showerheads at any given time, including rain systems, waterfalls, bodysprays, bodyspas and jets, must be limited to the allowable showerhead flow rate as specified above (2.5 gpm) per shower compartment, where the floor area of the shower compartment is less than 2,500 square inches (1.5 square meters). for each increment of 2,500 square inches (1.5 square meters) of floor area thereafter or part thereof, an additional showerhead with total allowable flow rate from all flowing devices equal to or less than the allowable flow rate as specified above must be allowed. Exception: showers that emit recirculated nonpotable water originating from within the shower compartment while operating are allowed to exceed the maximum as long as the total potable water flow does not exceed the flow rate as specified above. |
||
- Commercial Steam Cookers
- Commercial Dishwashers
- Automatic Commercial Ice Makers
- Commercial (family-sized) Clothes Washers
- Residential Clothes Washers
- Standard and Compact Residential Dishwashers
Alternative Compliance Paths (ACPs)
Europe ACP: Water Use Baseline
Projects in Europe may use the values defined by European Standards. [view:embed_resource=page_1=4887966] See all forum discussions about this credit »What does it cost?
Cost estimates for this credit
On each BD+C v4 credit, LEEDuser offers the wisdom of a team of architects, engineers, cost estimators, and LEED experts with hundreds of LEED projects between then. They analyzed the sustainable design strategies associated with each LEED credit, but also to assign actual costs to those strategies.
Our tab contains overall cost guidance, notes on what “soft costs” to expect, and a strategy-by-strategy breakdown of what to consider and what it might cost, in percentage premiums, actual costs, or both.
This information is also available in a full PDF download in The Cost of LEED v4 report.
Learn more about The Cost of LEED v4 »Frequently asked questions
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In LEED review comments I've been referred to the Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance document. I didn't know this was a required reference document.The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial » (If you're already a premium member, log in here.) |
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Should I include bar sinks? What about mop sinks or janitor sinks? Swimming pools? Safety showers? Bidets? Tub spouts? The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial » (If you're already a premium member, log in here.) |
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We provided new showers in our project to comply with the alternative transportation credit. Should they be considered in WEp1 calculations? The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial » (If you're already a premium member, log in here.) |
Can you explain the 12-second duration for metering faucets?The answer to this question is available to LEEDuser premium members. Start a free trial » (If you're already a premium member, log in here.) |
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Addenda
1/27/2017 – Updated: 1/27/2017
Form Update
Description of change:
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
2/2/2011 – Updated: 8/17/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the sixth row ("Lavatory Faucet") row of the table in the 11/2/2009 addenda, replace the duration (sec) of 15 with 30; replace the related note below table with "Default duration for the metering type / autocontrol faucet is 15 seconds for the baseline and 12 seconds for the design case."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
11/2/2009 – Updated: 8/17/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the table with two tables as indicated in the supplemental document. (Note: this table was updated again on February 2, 2011.)
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
10/1/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the first sentence with, "Blackwater is wastewater containing urine or fecal matter that should be discharged to the sanitary drainage system of the building or premises in accordance with the International Plumbing Code."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the first line of the fifth paragraph, replace the word "conservation" with "efficiency" so the text becomes "...analyze the water efficiency options available..."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
In the **** note, add "/9.5 lpm)" after "(2.5 gpm"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/9/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
After the section\'s first paragraph, insert the following:For additions to existing buildings, only the fixtures within the project scope must be counted for the prerequisite. To earn points under WE credit 3, all fixtures necessary to meet the needs of the addition occupants must be included, even if they are located within the existing building.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In alphabetical order, insert the following text:Alliance for Water Efficiencyhttp://www.allianceforwaterefficiency.org/The Alliance for Water Efficiency provides information andassistance on water conservation efforts.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the fourth row of the table in the "EPA WaterSense Standards" column, replace "1.5 - 2.0^b" with "2.0^b"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
Delete "4 lpm" and ", private applications only (hotel or motel guest rooms, hospital patient rooms) 2.0 lpm at 4 bar (58 psi), all others except private applications 1 liter per cycle for metering faucets" from the Current Baseline (Metric units) for Residential lavatory (bathroom faucets) and Residential kitchen faucet cell.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/9/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Remove the paragraph beginning with, "Although water-efficient dishwashers..."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
11/2/2009 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the fifth line of the paragraph, change the number 193 to 195, and the number 259 to 239, so it becomes "...annual occupancy of 195 females and 239 males..."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
For showerhead metric units, change "5 bar (58 psi)" to "5.5 bar (80 psi)"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/1/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
Replace first table of the section
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Remove both instances of "potable" in the section
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In footnote "b," replace "2.0 gmp" with "2.0 gpm"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
4/1/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In alphabetical order, add the following definition for autocontrol faucets, "Autocontrol faucets have automatic fixture sensors or metering controls."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Remove the following text:Fine Homebuilding Choosing a Toilethttp://www.taunton.com/finehomebuilding/pages/h00042.aspThis article includes several varieties of water-efficient toilets.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
In the pre-rinse spray valve row, add "(6 lpm)" after "1.6 gpm"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/1/2013 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
Autocontrol faucet baseline Addenda (all rating systems). In the 2/2/2011 Addenda, replace the baseline in the related note below table with “Default duration for the metering type / autocontrol lavatory faucet is 0.25 gallons per cycle (gpc) for the baseline case and 12 seconds for the design case.”
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/1/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
At the end of the section, insert the following text as a new paragraph:"For hospitality projects, fixture usage groups generally include a usage group for guest rooms and a usage group for common areas and back of house. For the purposes of the credit calculations, assume that hotel guests use the fixtures and fittings in their room, employees use back of house and / or common areas, and transient guests use common area restrooms. "
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the fifth row of the table in the column "Flow rate," replace "1.8 gpm" with ""? 2.2 gpm"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
11/1/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace first table of the section
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Remove the following text:U.S. EPA, Water Use Efficiency Programhttp://www.epa.gov/owm/water-efficiencyThis website provides an overview of EPA\'s Water Use EfficiencyProgram and information about using water more efficiently.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
In the **** note, add "/9.5 lpm)" after "(2.5 gpm"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/1/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Below the first paragraph, enter the following text as a new paragraph:"For hospitality projects, commercial kitchen sinks and bar sinks including pot sinks, prep sinks, wash down, and cleaning sinks are considered process water and are not included in the water use calculations. Hand washing sinks located in commercial kitchen areas that do not pass through a grease interceptor should be included in the water use calculations under the kitchen sink category."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the seventh row of the table in the "Flow Rate" column, replace "1.8 gpm" with "? 2.0 gpm"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/1/2014 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Form Update
Description of change:
Corrected errors from previous version, including incorrect uses per day calculation. Added override functions for special circumstances. Modified built-in dual flush calculator. Added functionality for custom naming of tabs. Streamlined output fields. Added content for BD+C, ID+C, and Retail/Healthcare project types.
Campus Applicable
Yes
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/1/2014 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Private or private use applies to plumbing fixtures in residences, apartments, and dormitories; private (non-public) bathrooms in transient lodging facilities (hotels and motels); and private bathrooms [and patient rooms] within hospitals and nursing facilities.
Add the following to eligible fixtures section:
"For healthcare projects, fixtures used for clinical use related to medical procedures, such as surgical scrub sinks and exam rooms sinks, in hospitals and medical office buildings are excluded from the water use calculations. Medication room sinks, utility room sinks, and other exam/procedure/observation room sinks for clinical use are also excluded. Should exam/procedure/observation room sinks be used primarily for hand-washing, they may be included in the water use calculations at the project team’s discretion under the public lavatory category. If included, project teams should provide a narrative explaining the usage assumptions for these sinks.
Lavatories in hospital inpatient bathrooms and inpatient rooms are considered private. The inpatient lavatory and water closet should use the default residential usage assumptions (of five times per day per residential occupant), unless specific project conditions warrant an alternative. Lavatories in hospital inpatient rooms (outside the bathrooms) are considered private if used by patients and/or staff similarly to a residential lavatory, or can be exempt if they are used by staff primarily for medical or clinical use.
Nutrition station (pantry) sinks and hospital staff lounge sinks should be included in the water use calculations under the kitchen sink category."
Add the following to eligible fixtures section:
"For healthcare projects, fixtures used for clinical use related to medical procedures, such as surgical scrub sinks and exam rooms sinks, in hospitals and medical office buildings are excluded from the water use calculations. Medication room sinks, utility room sinks, and other exam/procedure/observation room sinks for clinical use are also excluded. Should exam/procedure/observation room sinks be used primarily for hand-washing, they may be included in the water use calculations at the project team’s discretion under the public lavatory category. If included, project teams should provide a narrative explaining the usage assumptions for these sinks.
Lavatories in hospital inpatient bathrooms and inpatient rooms are considered private. The inpatient lavatory and water closet should use the default residential usage assumptions (of five times per day per residential occupant), unless specific project conditions warrant an alternative. Lavatories in hospital inpatient rooms (outside the bathrooms) are considered private if used by patients and/or staff similarly to a residential lavatory, or can be exempt if they are used by staff primarily for medical or clinical use.
Nutrition station (pantry) sinks and hospital staff lounge sinks should be included in the water use calculations under the kitchen sink category."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the first three paragraphs with new text as indicated in the supplemental document.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
Revise the Current Baseline (Metric units) for Residential showerheads cell to read "9.5 lpm at 5.5 bar (80 psi) per shower stall"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/9/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
(1) In the "Calculating Occupancy" section, add "e. Part-time students" (2) In the paragraph immediately below that, before the last sentence, add "Part-time students are calculated in the same manner as part-time staff."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the first sentence with "Private or private use applies to plumbing fixtures in residences, apartments, and dormitories, to private (non-public) bathrooms in transient lodging facilities (hotels and motels), and to private bathrooms in hospitals and nursing facilities."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
In the pre-rinse spray valve row, add "(6 lpm)" after "1.6 gpm"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/2/2009 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the eighth row of the table in the "Fixture" column, remove the text "and janitor" so it becomes "Kitchen sink faucets"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
Delete "Except blow out fixtures: 13 lpf" from the Current Baseline (Metric units) for Residential toilets cell.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
8/1/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
See revised image
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the resource "Rocky Mountain Institute, Water," replace the text below the resource header with the following:http://www.rmi.org/rmi/pid172This portion of RMI\'s website is devoted to water resourceefficiency.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
Revise the Current Baseline (Metric units) for Residential showerheads cell to read "9.5 lpm at 5.5 bar (80 psi) per shower stall"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/1/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
Replace first table of the section
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
2/2/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the section text with the following:This prerequisite is limited to savings generated by the following water using fixtures and fixture fittings as applicable to the project: water closets, urinals, lavatory faucets, showers, kitchen sink faucets and pre-rinse spray valves, as shown in Table 1. The "Kitchen sinks" category encompasses all sinks in public or private buildings that are used with patterns and purposes similar to a sink in a residential kitchen; break room sinks would be included. However professional grade / commercial faucets such as those used in a commercial kitchen would not be included. The "Public lavatory faucets" and "Private lavatory faucets" categories encompass all sinks used primarily for hand-washing regardless of location. Faucets whose usage patterns and flow rates are regulated for medical or industrial purposes (e.g. laboratory sinks) and do not fall under the definition of private or public use are not included. Faucets used exclusively for filling operations (e.g. pot-filler) can be excluded. All other fixtures and fixtures fittings must be included in the calculations unless there are special circumstances that justify excluding them.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the seventh row of the table in the "Flow Fixture" column, replace "Low-flow shower" with "WaterSense shower"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
11/1/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace first table of the section
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the resource "Water Closet Performance Testing," with the following:Water Studieshttp://www.ebmud.com/resource-center/publications/studiesThe site provides a variety of studies related to water.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
For showerhead metric units, change "5 bar (58 psi)" to "5.5 bar (80 psi)"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/1/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
At the end of the section, insert the following text as a new paragraph:"For hospitality projects, FTE and transient occupants are calculated per the typical methodology for the respective occupancy types. Hotel guests may be determined based on the number and size of units in the project. Generally, assume 1.5 occupants per guest room and multiply the resulting total by 60% (average hotel occupancy per AH&LA information) to determine the total number of hotel guests. Alternatively, occupants may be derived from actual historical occupancy numbers. Fixture use assumptions for hotel guests follow the fixture assumptions for residential occupants. Accordingly, lavatories located in guest rooms are considered to be private lavatories. Additionally, day use guests at the hotel should be included in the value for transient / visitor occupants. Per typical fixture use assumptions, this category of occupants assumes zero shower uses throughout the day. Example: 123-room hotelTotal Hotel Guests = 123*1.5 * 60%Total Hotel Guests = 111"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the second line of the paragraph, remove the text "and subtracting any nonpotable water supply"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Can a LEED-NC project without eligible water fixtures be exempt from WEp1 Water Use Reduction?
Ruling:
A project without eligible water fixtures in the LEED-NC project boundary is exempt from WEp1. Should such a project wish to pursue points under WE Credit 3, they may do so by evaluating WEc3 performance based upon all of the fixtures that are necessary to meet the needs of the project occupants, even if they are located outside the project boundary.
**Update October 1, 2012: Has been made applicable to LEED for Schools v2007 and v2009.
**Update October 1, 2013: Applicable credits were updated. This ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
5/9/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Can children\'s toilets be exempt from the prerequisite because there are no low-flow options available?
Ruling:
There are children\'s toilets available that are 1.6 gpf. The project team must decide what is best for the clientele, but baby toilets cannot be exempt from the credit. Applicable internationally.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/12/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
We are currently designing a new County Justice Center. The project consists of 193,338 gsf and will house the county jail, Courts and office space for the County Attorney, Community Corrections, Sheriff and Court Administration. The facility comprises an occupant load of 1,879 - 587 of which are attributable to the jail portion of the facility including the inmate population, staff and visitors. During the design development process, the project team has determined that the project will be able to achieve over 40% water efficiency for the project in the courts and office space of the project. However, due to the product availability, maintenance requirements and the behavioral nature of the inmate population we have determined that the project will be unable to use low flow fixtures for the jail portion of the building. Use of low flow fixtures will place an unreasonable burden on the construction project and negatively impact the ongoing operations and maintenance of the project. Not being able to use these fixture types will negate the water efficiency achieved in other portions of the building. We respectfully request that the jail portion of the facility be exempt from the water efficiency calculations and that these strategies be applied only to the Courts and Offices areas of the project.
Ruling:
In the definitions section of EPAct 1992 (Section 123, B) "water closet" and "urinal" fixtures installed in prisons are excluded. Also, the definition of "showerhead" excludes safety showerheads. Thus, these fixtures do not fall in the scope of this credit, and do not need to be included in the calculations for WEc3. Applicable Internationally.***This LI has been overturned by LI 10120, for projects registered after 11/1/2011, and LI 10216, for projects registered after 7/1/2012***Update 1/1/13: This LI has been made applicable to LEED NC v2.0, v2.2, and Schools v2007.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/1/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Does a single-occupant lockable bathroom in a commercial establishment count as "private" for flush & flow rate calculations?
Ruling:
The project team is requesting a ruling on whether restrooms at a commercial establishment that are only usable by one individual or family at a time are considered private or private-use facilities. The facilities that are usable by one individual or family at a time at a commercial establishment are not considered private or private-use facilities. The private or public categories for lavatory faucets are based on the UPC and IPC Standards for plumbing fixtures, and are referring to the anticipated uses and performance expectations of such faucets. Public restroom faucets are used almost exclusively for hand washing or simple rinsing, compared to lavatory faucets in homes and in other private bathrooms that are used for various purposes. Therefore the single occupancy restroom facilities at a commercial establishment are not private-use facilities and the baseline case must be calculated according to the public lavatory faucet baseline flow rate. Applicable internationally.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/9/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
The installation of bedside patient care units, which is a combined toilet and lavatory, is required for some patient rooms. Can the patient care unit be excluded from the calculations since there are no low-flow options available?
Ruling:
All fixtures that are covered by the EPAct 1992 must be included in the credit calculations, even if there are no low-flow options available. The use of these fixtures by only the patients in a limited area can be factored into the calculations.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
11/1/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Can the jail portion of a prison facility be excluded from the water efficient toilet requirements of this credit due to the lack of product availability, maintenance requirements and the behavioral nature of the inmate population?
Ruling:
There are now a sufficient number of stainless steel jail type toilets on the market at the 1.28 gpf level or below to make compliance with this prerequisite reasonable. Therefore, the jail portion of a prison facility is not exempt from the credit baseline and design calculations for LEED 2009 projects. Applicable Internationally.***This LI overturns LI 5033, for projects registered after 11/1/2011, and projects registered after 7/1/2012 must refer to LI 10216, which provides additional clarifications on this issue.***Update 1/1/13: This LI is applicable to LEED NC v2.2
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/10/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
We are seeking clarification on the use of municipally provided non-potable water for achieving WEc3 under the LEED NC version 2.2 rating system. Use of municipally supplied non-potable water meets the intent of limiting or eliminating the use of potable water and reduces the burden on municipal water supplies. However, currently, the Reference Guide does not give clear direction with concern to WEc1, WEc2 & WEc3 and municipally supplied water: WEc1 states that water savings can be claimed through the use of "water treated and conveyed by a public agency specifically for non-potable uses." WEc2 states that water savings can be claimed through the use of "municipally treated wastewater." WEc3, however, makes no statements as to whether municipally supplied recycled water can count towards water saving calculations. However, the synergies between WEc2 and WEc3 calculations leads one to conclude that municipally supplied wastewater can be used for both credit calculations. Our project will be using municipally supplied non-potable reclaimed water for both irrigation and sewage conveyance (toilet flushing). Can you please clarify whether municipally supplied reclaimed water can be used to achieve both WEc3.1 and WEc3.2?
Ruling:
Update October 20, 2016: See the updated “Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance” document for new guidance on applying seawater or municipal wastewater to v2009 Water Efficiency credits.
Original ruling October 10, 2006
Municipally reclaimed water is not applicable to WEc3 achievement. This credit focuses on fixture efficiency and on-site water reuse. Applicable Internationally.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Should prison fixtures be included or excluded from WEp1 and WEc3 (WEc1 in CI) Water Use Reduction calculations?
Ruling:
Beginning with projects registered after 7/1/2012, prison water closets (toilets), urinals and safety showerheads must be included in water use reduction calculations for fixtures and fittings. This LI overturns the older LI 5033 (applicable to projects registered before 11/1/2011) and expands on the language of LI 10120 (applicable to projects registered between 11/1/2011 and 7/1/2012). Fixture use assumptions for prisoners follow the default fixture assumptions for residential occupants. Accordingly, lavatory faucets, toilets, and showerheads serving prisoners must follow the residential fixture requirements, baselines, and daily usage assumptions for the purposes of this prerequisite/credit. Internationally applicable. Internationally applicable.***Update 1/1/13: This LI is applicable to LEED NC v2.2
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
4/1/2013
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
For campus projects, can wastewater treatment facilities located outside of the LEED project boundary but within the campus boundary qualify as on-site for the purposes of this credit?
Ruling:
"Update October 20, 2016: Campus projects may continue to utilize a wastewater treatment facility located outside of the LEED project boundary as long as it is within the campus boundary for Option 2 in WEc2: Innovative Wastewater Technologies. Treated water must be infiltrated or used on-site by the project. The only change to this ruling is that the campus treated wastewater can also apply in WEc3: Water Use Reduction, if reused in the project’s flush fixtures. See the updated “Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance” document.
Original ruling April 1, 2013:
Yes, campus projects may utilize a wastewater treatment facility located outside of the LEED project boundary as long as it is within the campus boundary for Option 2. Treated water must be infiltrated or used on-site by the project.
Please note that a campus scale wastewater treatment facility located outside of the LEED project boundary would be considered a municipally supplied non-potable water source for all other Water Efficiency credits, and would not be considered an on-site non-potable water source in WEp1 Water Use Reduction. Applicable Internationally."
Campus Applicable
Yes
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/9/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Can untreated groundwater, unsuitable for drinking, contribute towards WE credits 1, 2, and 3 as a non-potable water source for irrigation and sewage conveyance?
Ruling:
This approach does not meet the intent of the WE credits. Although the local groundwater may not be suitable for drinking straight out of the ground, it still represents an important source of potable water. Applicable internationally.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Our project is an Army standard Company Operations Facility (COF) which consists of office and warehouse modules. The Army standard design for this building type requires both the office and warehouse modules, and while these components are typically combined under one roof, the standard allows for a detached configuration based on site conditions and user preference. For this project, the detached configuration will be used with a conditioned warehouse module detached from (but adjacent to) the office module. In accordance with the Army Standard for COF facilities, the warehouse module is not permitted to have restroom facilities since they are provided in the office module and the Army mandates the consolidation of plumbing fixtures in one location. The absence of dedicated toilets or fixtures in the warehouse module may prevent it from meeting the Water Efficiency prerequisite 1 under LEED NC if registered as a standalone building. Can the separate office and warehouse modules for this project be registered as one building?
Ruling:
UPDATE 10/1/2012 - This Ruling has been retracted because it is project-specific. It is no longer applicable as of 10/01/2012. It can only be used by Army standard Company Operations Facilities projects registered or submitted for review between 7/1/12 and 8/30/12. Similar project types will be evaluated on a case by case basis.The project team is inquiring if the Army standard Company Operations Facility (COF) which consists of office and warehouse modules can be considered a single building even for instances where the components may be detached. Yes, the Company Operations Facility can be considered a single building. The fact that the components of the COF are tied together and only a single set of plumbing fixtures is provided between the components indicates that they operate as a single building even when detached.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
11/1/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Can reverse osmosis reject water be used as an innovative wastewater source? Reverse osmosis water is often used in lab, hospital and other process water settings.
Ruling:
Yes, on-site reverse osmosis reject water is an acceptable non-potable water source. Applicable internationally.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
8/27/2004
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Summary: Interpretation ruling pertaining to establishing the calculation baseline for Water Reduction Credits 3.1 & 3.2 when on-site tests have been conducted, and demonstrate that the supply water pressure levels (psi) to the fixtures are substantially below the 80 psi referenced within the Energy Policy Act of 1992. Context: The scope of the project incorporates new construction of four residential halls on a college campus, which house more than 250 students and staff. Three of the buildings are three stories, and the other is four stories. Description: The residence halls are incorporating a range of fixtures that are below the flow rates within the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (dual flush toilets, and faucets within the kitchens, kitchenettes, bathrooms & apartments). The showers in the residence hall are the largest water consumer (by a large %) within the residence hall buildings. To begin to understand the water amount actually used on the project, the owner conducted some initial on-site tests to determine the supply pressure to the plumbing fixtures, and how that translated into the actual flow. On-site tests for one of the buildings have been conducted on the flow rates of the shower heads with the following results: Fixture type currently installed = 2.5 gpm 1st floor: 52 psi static, 2.10 gpm 2nd floor: 46 psi static, 1.92 gpm 3rd floor: 41 psi static, 1.79 gpm 4th floor: 37 psi static, 1.85 gpm Question: o Would the design case account for the lower psi (reduced water use) by multiplying the \'Water Use\' column within the calculation template by the percentage of supply/baseline? For example for a shower on the first floor the \'Water Use" would be multiplied by 65% (52/80) or by just including 2.10 gpm as the flow rate for the fixture on this floor? o What is the appropriate methodology for establishing the calculation baseline when the water pressure supply rate (psi) is substantially lower than the 80 psi outlined as the baseline flow rates under the Energy Policy Act of 1992?
Ruling:
[Note: this ruling was revised on 9/1/04.] The underlying assumptions used for calculating projected water use savings should remain consistent between the baseline and design case. Supply water pressure varies across the United States and within individual buildings (as you note in your inquiry). Flow rates at 80 psi are used for the calculations in this credit for consistency and to reward use of efficient fixtures. It is recommended that all projects use the flow rates reported by the manufacturer at 80 psi for comparison with the Energy Policy Act of 1992 flow rates. If you wish to use on-site tests to report the most accurate volume of water use, you must be consistent throughout all fixtures and test both baseline and design fixtures. It is not acceptable to use flow rates at 80 psi for some fixtures and actual flow rates for other fixtures. Measurement can also be used to account for the benefits of whole-building strategies, e.g., flow restrictors at the water service entrance. Applicable Internationally.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/1/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
This is an inquiry about the calculation of the FTE in relation to our project in Zurich, Switzerland. In the LEED Reference Guide on page 53 the calculation of the FTE is based on a 8-hour working day. That means that an 8-hour occupant has an FTE value of 1.0. The standard working day in Switzerland contains 8.5 hours of work.In a FTE calculation on the basis that is provided in the LEED Reference Guide the normal working day of one single person would have the FTE value of 1.0625. As a consequence of the, in case of 1000 people fulltime staff this FTE calculation would have additional number of 63 FTE in comparion to an FTE value of 1.0.Is it possible to calculate the FTE value for this project with an 8.5 instead of 8 hour day, so that we would have the FTE value of 1.0 for a standard 8.5 hour-working day?
Ruling:
The project team has inquired if projects in Switzerland may use 8.5-hours as their working day instead of 8-hours as in the US. Each full-time employee based on Swiss and US labor laws works an 8.5-hour day, which includes a half-hour unpaid lunch break and two 15-minute paid breaks. In order to maintain the baseline for projects everywhere when calculating FTE occupancy, all Swiss projects, including those industries that have an overtime work culture for full-time employees, should still use the 8.0-hour work day in their FTE calculations. Applicable internationally.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Can municipally supplied treated seawater for toilet flushing be used as a strategy for earning WEp1 and WEc1 Water Use Reduction?
Ruling:
Update October 20, 2016: See the updated “Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance” document for new guidance on applying seawater or municipal wastewater to v2009 Water Efficiency credits.
Update October 1, 2013
Note that LEED Interpretation 10117 has been updated to clarify that seawater must be treated to appropriate levels for non-potable uses in order to apply to WEc2 Innovative Wastewater Technologies; seawater that is treated to potable drinking water standards would not apply. Any on-site energy use to desalinate the seawater must be included in the EAp2/c1 calculations. Refer to the guidance document. Applicability of Seawater in Water Efficiency credits also updated.
Original ruling July 1, 2012
No, municipally supplied sources of non-potable water, including seawater, are not applicable to the WE fixture water use reduction credits, including WEp1 (D+C, EBOM) and WEc1 (CI) Water Use Reduction, or considered graywater. As stated in LI 1551 (12/12/2006) This credit focuses on fixture efficiency and on-site water reuse. In addition, the Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance document (updated 8/16/2010, http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=6493), confirms that the focus of the pre-requisite is water efficiency of the installed fixtures, regardless of the water source, and only on-site water reuse is available as an alternative compliance path.
However, municipally treated wastewater (including treated seawater) applies to SSc1 - Path 9 Innovative Wastewater Technologies (CI), WEc2, Innovative Wastewater Technologies (BD+C), and can be used if the two conditions of LEED Interpretation 10117 are met: 1) the seawater is municipally supplied or explicitly approved by the municipality and 2) meets all applicable codes and permitting requirements, so as not to contaminate the municipal wastewater system with high salinity. For EBOM projects, where no wastewater credit is available, the project may apply for innovation credit for use of this strategy."
----------
10/1/13 notes: revise ruling and update resource: http://www.usgbc.org/resources/seawater-guidance
No, municipally supplied sources of non-potable water, including seawater, are not applicable to the WE fixture water use reduction credits, including WEp1 (D+C, EBOM) and WEc1 (CI) Water Use Reduction, or considered graywater. As stated in LI 1551 (12/12/2006) This credit focuses on fixture efficiency and on-site water reuse. In addition, the Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance document (updated 8/16/2010, http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=6493), confirms that the focus of the prerequisite is water efficiency of the installed fixtures, regardless of the water source, and only on-site water reuse is available as an alternative compliance path.
However, municipally treated wastewater (including treated seawater) applies to SSc1 - Path 9 Innovative Wastewater Technologies (CI), WEc2, Innovative Wastewater Technologies (BD+C), and can be used if the two conditions of LEED Interpretation 10117 are met: 1) the seawater is municipally supplied or explicitly approved by the municipality and 2) meets all applicable codes and permitting requirements, so as not to contaminate the municipal wastewater system with high salinity. For EBOM projects, where no wastewater credit is available, the project may apply for innovation credit for use of this strategy.
**Update October 1, 2013: Note that LEED Interpretation 10117 has been updated to clarify that seawater must be treated to appropriate levels for non-potable uses in order to apply to WEc2 Innovative Wastewater Technologies; seawater that is treated to potable drinking water standards would not apply. Any on-site energy use to desalinate the seawater must be included in the EAp2/c1 calculations. Refer to the guidance document. Applicability of Seawater in Water Efficiency credits also updated
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Should prison fixtures be included or excluded from WEp1 and WEc3 (WEc1 in CI) Water Use Reduction calculations?
Ruling:
Beginning with projects registered after 7/1/2012, prison water closets (toilets), urinals and safety showerheads must be included in water use reduction calculations for fixtures and fittings. This LI overturns the older LI 5033 (applicable to projects registered before 11/1/2011) and expands on the language of LI 10120 (applicable to projects registered between 11/1/2011 and 7/1/2012). Fixture use assumptions for prisoners follow the default fixture assumptions for residential occupants. Accordingly, lavatory faucets, toilets, and showerheads serving prisoners must follow the residential fixture requirements, baselines, and daily usage assumptions for the purposes of this prerequisite/credit. Internationally applicable.***Update 1/1/13: This LI is applicable to LEED NC v2.2
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Can municipally supplied treated seawater for toilet flushing be used as a strategy for earning WEp1 and WEc1 Water Use Reduction?
Ruling:
Update October 20, 2016: See the updated “Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance” document for new guidance on applying seawater or municipal wastewater to v2009 Water Efficiency credits.
Update October 1, 2013
Note that LEED Interpretation 10117 has been updated to clarify that seawater must be treated to appropriate levels for non-potable uses in order to apply to WEc2 Innovative Wastewater Technologies; seawater that is treated to potable drinking water standards would not apply. Any on-site energy use to desalinate the seawater must be included in the EAp2/c1 calculations. Refer to the guidance document. Applicability of Seawater in Water Efficiency credits also updated.
10/1/13 notes: link resource and edit ruling: http://www.usgbc.org/resources/seawater-guidance
No, municipally supplied sources of non-potable water, including seawater, are not applicable to the WE fixture water use reduction credits, including WEp1 (D+C, EBOM) and WEc1 (CI) Water Use Reduction, or considered graywater. As stated in LI 1551 (12/12/2006) This credit focuses on fixture efficiency and on-site water reuse. In addition, the Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance document (updated 8/16/2010, http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=6493), confirms that the focus of the prerequisite is water efficiency of the installed fixtures, regardless of the water source, and only on-site water reuse is available as an alternative compliance path.
However, municipally treated wastewater (including treated seawater) applies to SSc1 - Path 9 Innovative Wastewater Technologies (CI), WEc2, Innovative Wastewater Technologies (BD+C), and can be used if the two conditions of LEED Interpretation 10117 are met: 1) the seawater is municipally supplied or explicitly approved by the municipality and 2) meets all applicable codes and permitting requirements, so as not to contaminate the municipal wastewater system with high salinity. For EBOM projects, where no wastewater credit is available, the project may apply for innovation credit for use of this strategy.
**Update October 1, 2013: Note that LEED Interpretation 10117 has been updated to clarify that seawater must be treated to appropriate levels for non-potable uses in order to apply to WEc2 Innovative Wastewater Technologies; seawater that is treated to potable drinking water standards would not apply. Any on-site energy use to desalinate the seawater must be included in the EAp2/c1 calculations. Refer to the guidance document. Applicability of Seawater in Water Efficiency credits also updated.
Original ruling July 1, 2012
No, municipally supplied sources of non-potable water, including seawater, are not applicable to the WE fixture water use reduction credits, including WEp1 (D+C, EBOM) and WEc1 (CI) Water Use Reduction, or considered graywater. As stated in LI 1551 (12/12/2006) This credit focuses on fixture efficiency and on-site water reuse. In addition, the Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance document (updated 8/16/2010, http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=6493), confirms that the focus of the prerequisite is water efficiency of the installed fixtures, regardless of the water source, and only on-site water reuse is available as an alternative compliance path.
However, municipally treated wastewater (including treated seawater) applies to SSc1 - Path 9 Innovative Wastewater Technologies (CI), WEc2, Innovative Wastewater Technologies (BD+C), and can be used if the two conditions of LEED Interpretation 10117 are met: 1) the seawater is municipally supplied or explicitly approved by the municipality and 2) meets all applicable codes and permitting requirements, so as not to contaminate the municipal wastewater system with high salinity. For EBOM projects, where no wastewater credit is available, the project may apply for innovation credit for use of this strategy."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
5/9/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Are swimming pools excluded from the calculations for WE Prerequisite 1?
Ruling:
This is correct as the prerequisite only covers fixtures specified in the Reference Guide and regulated by one of the standards listed. These fixtures and fixture fittings include water closets, urinals, lavatory faucets, showers, kitchen sink facets, and pre-rinse spray valves. Applicable internationally.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
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Requirements
Employ strategies that in aggregate use less water than the water use baseline calculated for the building (not including irrigation). The minimum water savings percentage for each point threshold is as follows:
| % Reduction | Points |
|---|---|
| 30% | 2 |
| 35% | 3 |
| 40% | 4 |
| Commercial Fixtures, Fittings, and Appliances | Current Baseline (Imperial Units) | Current Baseline (Metric units) |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Toilets | 1.6 gallons per flush (gpf)* Except blow-out fixtures: 3.5 (gpf) |
6 liters per flush (lpf) Except blow-out fixtures: 13 lpf |
| Commercial Urinals | 1.0 (gpf) | 4 lpf |
| Commercial Lavatory (Restroom) Faucets | 2.2 gallons per minute (gpm) at 60 pounds per square inch (psi), private applications only (hotel or motel guest rooms, hospital patient rooms) 0.5 (gpm) at 60 (psi)** all others except private applications 0.25 gallons per cycle for metering faucets |
8.5 liters per minute (lpm) at 4 bar (58 psi), private applications only (hotel or motel guest rooms, hospital patient rooms) 2.0 lpm at 4 bar (58 psi), all others except private applications 1 liter per cycle for metering faucets |
| Showerheads | 2.5 (gpm) at 80 (psi) per shower stall **** | 9.5 lpm at 5 bar (58 psi) |
| For projects with commercial pre-rinse spray valves, the flow rate must comply with the asME a112.18.1 standard of 1.6 gpm or less. | ||
| Residential fixtures, fittings, and appliances | Current baseline (imperial units) | Current baseline (metric units) |
|---|---|---|
| Residential toilets | 1.6 (gpf)*** | 6 liters per flush (lpf) Except blow-out fixtures: 13 lpf |
| Residential lavatory (bathroom) faucets | 2.2 (gpm) at 60 psi | 4 lpm 8.5 lpm at 4 bar (58 psi), private applications only (hotel or motel guest rooms, hospital patient rooms) 2.0 lpm at 4 bar (58 psi), all others except private applications 1 liter per cycle for metering faucets |
| Residential kitchen faucet | ||
| Residential showerheads | 2.5 (gpm) at 80 (psi) per shower stall**** | flow rate ≤ 6.1 lpm (no pressure specified; no performance requirement) |
|
* EPAct1992 standard for toilets applies to both commercial and residential models. ** in addition to Epact requirements, the american society of Mechanical Engineers standard for public lavatory faucets is 0.5 gpm at 60 psi (2.0 lpm at 4 bar (58 psi)) (asME a112.18.1-2005). this maximum has been incorporated into the national uniform plumbing Code and the international plumbing Code. *** EPAct 1992 standard for toilets applies to both commercial and residential models. **** residential shower compartment (stall) in dwelling units: the total allowable flow rate from all flowing showerheads at any given time, including rain systems, waterfalls, bodysprays, bodyspas and jets, must be limited to the allowable showerhead flow rate as specified above (2.5 gpm) per shower compartment, where the floor area of the shower compartment is less than 2,500 square inches (1.5 square meters). for each increment of 2,500 square inches (1.5 square meters) of floor area thereafter or part thereof, an additional showerhead with total allowable flow rate from all flowing devices equal to or less than the allowable flow rate as specified above must be allowed. Exception: showers that emit recirculated nonpotable water originating from within the shower compartment while operating are allowed to exceed the maximum as long as the total potable water flow does not exceed the flow rate as specified above. |
||
- Commercial Steam Cookers
- Commercial Dishwashers
- Automatic Commercial Ice Makers
- Commercial (family-sized) Clothes Washers
- Residential Clothes Washers
- Standard and Compact Residential Dishwashers
Alternative Compliance Paths (ACPs)
Europe ACP: Water Use Baseline
Projects in Europe may use the values defined by European Standards. [view:embed_resource=page_1=4887966]XX%
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|
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|
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1/27/2017 – Updated: 1/27/2017
Form Update
Description of change:
corrected ice machine baseline numbers for retail on process water and instructions tabs (v07)
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
2/2/2011 – Updated: 8/17/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the sixth row ("Lavatory Faucet") row of the table in the 11/2/2009 addenda, replace the duration (sec) of 15 with 30; replace the related note below table with "Default duration for the metering type / autocontrol faucet is 15 seconds for the baseline and 12 seconds for the design case."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
11/2/2009 – Updated: 8/17/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the table with two tables as indicated in the supplemental document. (Note: this table was updated again on February 2, 2011.)
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
10/1/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the first sentence with, "Blackwater is wastewater containing urine or fecal matter that should be discharged to the sanitary drainage system of the building or premises in accordance with the International Plumbing Code."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the first line of the fifth paragraph, replace the word "conservation" with "efficiency" so the text becomes "...analyze the water efficiency options available..."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
In the **** note, add "/9.5 lpm)" after "(2.5 gpm"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/9/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
After the section\'s first paragraph, insert the following:For additions to existing buildings, only the fixtures within the project scope must be counted for the prerequisite. To earn points under WE credit 3, all fixtures necessary to meet the needs of the addition occupants must be included, even if they are located within the existing building.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In alphabetical order, insert the following text:Alliance for Water Efficiencyhttp://www.allianceforwaterefficiency.org/The Alliance for Water Efficiency provides information andassistance on water conservation efforts.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the fourth row of the table in the "EPA WaterSense Standards" column, replace "1.5 - 2.0^b" with "2.0^b"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
Delete "4 lpm" and ", private applications only (hotel or motel guest rooms, hospital patient rooms) 2.0 lpm at 4 bar (58 psi), all others except private applications 1 liter per cycle for metering faucets" from the Current Baseline (Metric units) for Residential lavatory (bathroom faucets) and Residential kitchen faucet cell.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/9/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Remove the paragraph beginning with, "Although water-efficient dishwashers..."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
11/2/2009 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the fifth line of the paragraph, change the number 193 to 195, and the number 259 to 239, so it becomes "...annual occupancy of 195 females and 239 males..."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
For showerhead metric units, change "5 bar (58 psi)" to "5.5 bar (80 psi)"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/1/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
Replace first table of the section
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Remove both instances of "potable" in the section
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In footnote "b," replace "2.0 gmp" with "2.0 gpm"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
4/1/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In alphabetical order, add the following definition for autocontrol faucets, "Autocontrol faucets have automatic fixture sensors or metering controls."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Remove the following text:Fine Homebuilding Choosing a Toilethttp://www.taunton.com/finehomebuilding/pages/h00042.aspThis article includes several varieties of water-efficient toilets.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
In the pre-rinse spray valve row, add "(6 lpm)" after "1.6 gpm"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
4/1/2013 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
Autocontrol faucet baseline Addenda (all rating systems). In the 2/2/2011 Addenda, replace the baseline in the related note below table with “Default duration for the metering type / autocontrol lavatory faucet is 0.25 gallons per cycle (gpc) for the baseline case and 12 seconds for the design case.”
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/1/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
At the end of the section, insert the following text as a new paragraph:"For hospitality projects, fixture usage groups generally include a usage group for guest rooms and a usage group for common areas and back of house. For the purposes of the credit calculations, assume that hotel guests use the fixtures and fittings in their room, employees use back of house and / or common areas, and transient guests use common area restrooms. "
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the fifth row of the table in the column "Flow rate," replace "1.8 gpm" with ""? 2.2 gpm"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
11/1/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace first table of the section
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Remove the following text:U.S. EPA, Water Use Efficiency Programhttp://www.epa.gov/owm/water-efficiencyThis website provides an overview of EPA\'s Water Use EfficiencyProgram and information about using water more efficiently.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
In the **** note, add "/9.5 lpm)" after "(2.5 gpm"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/1/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Below the first paragraph, enter the following text as a new paragraph:"For hospitality projects, commercial kitchen sinks and bar sinks including pot sinks, prep sinks, wash down, and cleaning sinks are considered process water and are not included in the water use calculations. Hand washing sinks located in commercial kitchen areas that do not pass through a grease interceptor should be included in the water use calculations under the kitchen sink category."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the seventh row of the table in the "Flow Rate" column, replace "1.8 gpm" with "? 2.0 gpm"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/1/2014 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Form Update
Description of change:
Corrected errors from previous version, including incorrect uses per day calculation. Added override functions for special circumstances. Modified built-in dual flush calculator. Added functionality for custom naming of tabs. Streamlined output fields. Added content for BD+C, ID+C, and Retail/Healthcare project types.
Campus Applicable
Yes
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/1/2014 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Private or private use applies to plumbing fixtures in residences, apartments, and dormitories; private (non-public) bathrooms in transient lodging facilities (hotels and motels); and private bathrooms [and patient rooms] within hospitals and nursing facilities.
Add the following to eligible fixtures section:
"For healthcare projects, fixtures used for clinical use related to medical procedures, such as surgical scrub sinks and exam rooms sinks, in hospitals and medical office buildings are excluded from the water use calculations. Medication room sinks, utility room sinks, and other exam/procedure/observation room sinks for clinical use are also excluded. Should exam/procedure/observation room sinks be used primarily for hand-washing, they may be included in the water use calculations at the project team’s discretion under the public lavatory category. If included, project teams should provide a narrative explaining the usage assumptions for these sinks.
Lavatories in hospital inpatient bathrooms and inpatient rooms are considered private. The inpatient lavatory and water closet should use the default residential usage assumptions (of five times per day per residential occupant), unless specific project conditions warrant an alternative. Lavatories in hospital inpatient rooms (outside the bathrooms) are considered private if used by patients and/or staff similarly to a residential lavatory, or can be exempt if they are used by staff primarily for medical or clinical use.
Nutrition station (pantry) sinks and hospital staff lounge sinks should be included in the water use calculations under the kitchen sink category."
Add the following to eligible fixtures section:
"For healthcare projects, fixtures used for clinical use related to medical procedures, such as surgical scrub sinks and exam rooms sinks, in hospitals and medical office buildings are excluded from the water use calculations. Medication room sinks, utility room sinks, and other exam/procedure/observation room sinks for clinical use are also excluded. Should exam/procedure/observation room sinks be used primarily for hand-washing, they may be included in the water use calculations at the project team’s discretion under the public lavatory category. If included, project teams should provide a narrative explaining the usage assumptions for these sinks.
Lavatories in hospital inpatient bathrooms and inpatient rooms are considered private. The inpatient lavatory and water closet should use the default residential usage assumptions (of five times per day per residential occupant), unless specific project conditions warrant an alternative. Lavatories in hospital inpatient rooms (outside the bathrooms) are considered private if used by patients and/or staff similarly to a residential lavatory, or can be exempt if they are used by staff primarily for medical or clinical use.
Nutrition station (pantry) sinks and hospital staff lounge sinks should be included in the water use calculations under the kitchen sink category."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the first three paragraphs with new text as indicated in the supplemental document.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
Revise the Current Baseline (Metric units) for Residential showerheads cell to read "9.5 lpm at 5.5 bar (80 psi) per shower stall"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/9/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
(1) In the "Calculating Occupancy" section, add "e. Part-time students" (2) In the paragraph immediately below that, before the last sentence, add "Part-time students are calculated in the same manner as part-time staff."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the first sentence with "Private or private use applies to plumbing fixtures in residences, apartments, and dormitories, to private (non-public) bathrooms in transient lodging facilities (hotels and motels), and to private bathrooms in hospitals and nursing facilities."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
In the pre-rinse spray valve row, add "(6 lpm)" after "1.6 gpm"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/2/2009 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the eighth row of the table in the "Fixture" column, remove the text "and janitor" so it becomes "Kitchen sink faucets"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
Delete "Except blow out fixtures: 13 lpf" from the Current Baseline (Metric units) for Residential toilets cell.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
8/1/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
See revised image
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the resource "Rocky Mountain Institute, Water," replace the text below the resource header with the following:http://www.rmi.org/rmi/pid172This portion of RMI\'s website is devoted to water resourceefficiency.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
Revise the Current Baseline (Metric units) for Residential showerheads cell to read "9.5 lpm at 5.5 bar (80 psi) per shower stall"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/1/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Rating System Correction
Description of change:
Replace first table of the section
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
2/2/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the section text with the following:This prerequisite is limited to savings generated by the following water using fixtures and fixture fittings as applicable to the project: water closets, urinals, lavatory faucets, showers, kitchen sink faucets and pre-rinse spray valves, as shown in Table 1. The "Kitchen sinks" category encompasses all sinks in public or private buildings that are used with patterns and purposes similar to a sink in a residential kitchen; break room sinks would be included. However professional grade / commercial faucets such as those used in a commercial kitchen would not be included. The "Public lavatory faucets" and "Private lavatory faucets" categories encompass all sinks used primarily for hand-washing regardless of location. Faucets whose usage patterns and flow rates are regulated for medical or industrial purposes (e.g. laboratory sinks) and do not fall under the definition of private or public use are not included. Faucets used exclusively for filling operations (e.g. pot-filler) can be excluded. All other fixtures and fixtures fittings must be included in the calculations unless there are special circumstances that justify excluding them.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the seventh row of the table in the "Flow Fixture" column, replace "Low-flow shower" with "WaterSense shower"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
11/1/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace first table of the section
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
Replace the resource "Water Closet Performance Testing," with the following:Water Studieshttp://www.ebmud.com/resource-center/publications/studiesThe site provides a variety of studies related to water.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/6/2012 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Global ACP
Description of change:
For showerhead metric units, change "5 bar (58 psi)" to "5.5 bar (80 psi)"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/1/2011 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
At the end of the section, insert the following text as a new paragraph:"For hospitality projects, FTE and transient occupants are calculated per the typical methodology for the respective occupancy types. Hotel guests may be determined based on the number and size of units in the project. Generally, assume 1.5 occupants per guest room and multiply the resulting total by 60% (average hotel occupancy per AH&LA information) to determine the total number of hotel guests. Alternatively, occupants may be derived from actual historical occupancy numbers. Fixture use assumptions for hotel guests follow the fixture assumptions for residential occupants. Accordingly, lavatories located in guest rooms are considered to be private lavatories. Additionally, day use guests at the hotel should be included in the value for transient / visitor occupants. Per typical fixture use assumptions, this category of occupants assumes zero shower uses throughout the day. Example: 123-room hotelTotal Hotel Guests = 123*1.5 * 60%Total Hotel Guests = 111"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/19/2010 – Updated: 2/14/2015
Reference Guide Correction
Description of change:
In the second line of the paragraph, remove the text "and subtracting any nonpotable water supply"
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Can a LEED-NC project without eligible water fixtures be exempt from WEp1 Water Use Reduction?
Ruling:
A project without eligible water fixtures in the LEED-NC project boundary is exempt from WEp1. Should such a project wish to pursue points under WE Credit 3, they may do so by evaluating WEc3 performance based upon all of the fixtures that are necessary to meet the needs of the project occupants, even if they are located outside the project boundary.
**Update October 1, 2012: Has been made applicable to LEED for Schools v2007 and v2009.
**Update October 1, 2013: Applicable credits were updated. This ruling does not apply to Core and Shell projects.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
5/9/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Can children\'s toilets be exempt from the prerequisite because there are no low-flow options available?
Ruling:
There are children\'s toilets available that are 1.6 gpf. The project team must decide what is best for the clientele, but baby toilets cannot be exempt from the credit. Applicable internationally.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
2/12/2007
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
We are currently designing a new County Justice Center. The project consists of 193,338 gsf and will house the county jail, Courts and office space for the County Attorney, Community Corrections, Sheriff and Court Administration. The facility comprises an occupant load of 1,879 - 587 of which are attributable to the jail portion of the facility including the inmate population, staff and visitors. During the design development process, the project team has determined that the project will be able to achieve over 40% water efficiency for the project in the courts and office space of the project. However, due to the product availability, maintenance requirements and the behavioral nature of the inmate population we have determined that the project will be unable to use low flow fixtures for the jail portion of the building. Use of low flow fixtures will place an unreasonable burden on the construction project and negatively impact the ongoing operations and maintenance of the project. Not being able to use these fixture types will negate the water efficiency achieved in other portions of the building. We respectfully request that the jail portion of the facility be exempt from the water efficiency calculations and that these strategies be applied only to the Courts and Offices areas of the project.
Ruling:
In the definitions section of EPAct 1992 (Section 123, B) "water closet" and "urinal" fixtures installed in prisons are excluded. Also, the definition of "showerhead" excludes safety showerheads. Thus, these fixtures do not fall in the scope of this credit, and do not need to be included in the calculations for WEc3. Applicable Internationally.***This LI has been overturned by LI 10120, for projects registered after 11/1/2011, and LI 10216, for projects registered after 7/1/2012***Update 1/1/13: This LI has been made applicable to LEED NC v2.0, v2.2, and Schools v2007.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/1/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Does a single-occupant lockable bathroom in a commercial establishment count as "private" for flush & flow rate calculations?
Ruling:
The project team is requesting a ruling on whether restrooms at a commercial establishment that are only usable by one individual or family at a time are considered private or private-use facilities. The facilities that are usable by one individual or family at a time at a commercial establishment are not considered private or private-use facilities. The private or public categories for lavatory faucets are based on the UPC and IPC Standards for plumbing fixtures, and are referring to the anticipated uses and performance expectations of such faucets. Public restroom faucets are used almost exclusively for hand washing or simple rinsing, compared to lavatory faucets in homes and in other private bathrooms that are used for various purposes. Therefore the single occupancy restroom facilities at a commercial establishment are not private-use facilities and the baseline case must be calculated according to the public lavatory faucet baseline flow rate. Applicable internationally.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/9/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
The installation of bedside patient care units, which is a combined toilet and lavatory, is required for some patient rooms. Can the patient care unit be excluded from the calculations since there are no low-flow options available?
Ruling:
All fixtures that are covered by the EPAct 1992 must be included in the credit calculations, even if there are no low-flow options available. The use of these fixtures by only the patients in a limited area can be factored into the calculations.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
11/1/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Can the jail portion of a prison facility be excluded from the water efficient toilet requirements of this credit due to the lack of product availability, maintenance requirements and the behavioral nature of the inmate population?
Ruling:
There are now a sufficient number of stainless steel jail type toilets on the market at the 1.28 gpf level or below to make compliance with this prerequisite reasonable. Therefore, the jail portion of a prison facility is not exempt from the credit baseline and design calculations for LEED 2009 projects. Applicable Internationally.***This LI overturns LI 5033, for projects registered after 11/1/2011, and projects registered after 7/1/2012 must refer to LI 10216, which provides additional clarifications on this issue.***Update 1/1/13: This LI is applicable to LEED NC v2.2
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
10/10/2006
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
We are seeking clarification on the use of municipally provided non-potable water for achieving WEc3 under the LEED NC version 2.2 rating system. Use of municipally supplied non-potable water meets the intent of limiting or eliminating the use of potable water and reduces the burden on municipal water supplies. However, currently, the Reference Guide does not give clear direction with concern to WEc1, WEc2 & WEc3 and municipally supplied water: WEc1 states that water savings can be claimed through the use of "water treated and conveyed by a public agency specifically for non-potable uses." WEc2 states that water savings can be claimed through the use of "municipally treated wastewater." WEc3, however, makes no statements as to whether municipally supplied recycled water can count towards water saving calculations. However, the synergies between WEc2 and WEc3 calculations leads one to conclude that municipally supplied wastewater can be used for both credit calculations. Our project will be using municipally supplied non-potable reclaimed water for both irrigation and sewage conveyance (toilet flushing). Can you please clarify whether municipally supplied reclaimed water can be used to achieve both WEc3.1 and WEc3.2?
Ruling:
Update October 20, 2016: See the updated “Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance” document for new guidance on applying seawater or municipal wastewater to v2009 Water Efficiency credits.
Original ruling October 10, 2006
Municipally reclaimed water is not applicable to WEc3 achievement. This credit focuses on fixture efficiency and on-site water reuse. Applicable Internationally.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Should prison fixtures be included or excluded from WEp1 and WEc3 (WEc1 in CI) Water Use Reduction calculations?
Ruling:
Beginning with projects registered after 7/1/2012, prison water closets (toilets), urinals and safety showerheads must be included in water use reduction calculations for fixtures and fittings. This LI overturns the older LI 5033 (applicable to projects registered before 11/1/2011) and expands on the language of LI 10120 (applicable to projects registered between 11/1/2011 and 7/1/2012). Fixture use assumptions for prisoners follow the default fixture assumptions for residential occupants. Accordingly, lavatory faucets, toilets, and showerheads serving prisoners must follow the residential fixture requirements, baselines, and daily usage assumptions for the purposes of this prerequisite/credit. Internationally applicable. Internationally applicable.***Update 1/1/13: This LI is applicable to LEED NC v2.2
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
4/1/2013
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
For campus projects, can wastewater treatment facilities located outside of the LEED project boundary but within the campus boundary qualify as on-site for the purposes of this credit?
Ruling:
"Update October 20, 2016: Campus projects may continue to utilize a wastewater treatment facility located outside of the LEED project boundary as long as it is within the campus boundary for Option 2 in WEc2: Innovative Wastewater Technologies. Treated water must be infiltrated or used on-site by the project. The only change to this ruling is that the campus treated wastewater can also apply in WEc3: Water Use Reduction, if reused in the project’s flush fixtures. See the updated “Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance” document.
Original ruling April 1, 2013:
Yes, campus projects may utilize a wastewater treatment facility located outside of the LEED project boundary as long as it is within the campus boundary for Option 2. Treated water must be infiltrated or used on-site by the project.
Please note that a campus scale wastewater treatment facility located outside of the LEED project boundary would be considered a municipally supplied non-potable water source for all other Water Efficiency credits, and would not be considered an on-site non-potable water source in WEp1 Water Use Reduction. Applicable Internationally."
Campus Applicable
Yes
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
5/9/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Can untreated groundwater, unsuitable for drinking, contribute towards WE credits 1, 2, and 3 as a non-potable water source for irrigation and sewage conveyance?
Ruling:
This approach does not meet the intent of the WE credits. Although the local groundwater may not be suitable for drinking straight out of the ground, it still represents an important source of potable water. Applicable internationally.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Our project is an Army standard Company Operations Facility (COF) which consists of office and warehouse modules. The Army standard design for this building type requires both the office and warehouse modules, and while these components are typically combined under one roof, the standard allows for a detached configuration based on site conditions and user preference. For this project, the detached configuration will be used with a conditioned warehouse module detached from (but adjacent to) the office module. In accordance with the Army Standard for COF facilities, the warehouse module is not permitted to have restroom facilities since they are provided in the office module and the Army mandates the consolidation of plumbing fixtures in one location. The absence of dedicated toilets or fixtures in the warehouse module may prevent it from meeting the Water Efficiency prerequisite 1 under LEED NC if registered as a standalone building. Can the separate office and warehouse modules for this project be registered as one building?
Ruling:
UPDATE 10/1/2012 - This Ruling has been retracted because it is project-specific. It is no longer applicable as of 10/01/2012. It can only be used by Army standard Company Operations Facilities projects registered or submitted for review between 7/1/12 and 8/30/12. Similar project types will be evaluated on a case by case basis.The project team is inquiring if the Army standard Company Operations Facility (COF) which consists of office and warehouse modules can be considered a single building even for instances where the components may be detached. Yes, the Company Operations Facility can be considered a single building. The fact that the components of the COF are tied together and only a single set of plumbing fixtures is provided between the components indicates that they operate as a single building even when detached.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
11/1/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Can reverse osmosis reject water be used as an innovative wastewater source? Reverse osmosis water is often used in lab, hospital and other process water settings.
Ruling:
Yes, on-site reverse osmosis reject water is an acceptable non-potable water source. Applicable internationally.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
8/27/2004
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Summary: Interpretation ruling pertaining to establishing the calculation baseline for Water Reduction Credits 3.1 & 3.2 when on-site tests have been conducted, and demonstrate that the supply water pressure levels (psi) to the fixtures are substantially below the 80 psi referenced within the Energy Policy Act of 1992. Context: The scope of the project incorporates new construction of four residential halls on a college campus, which house more than 250 students and staff. Three of the buildings are three stories, and the other is four stories. Description: The residence halls are incorporating a range of fixtures that are below the flow rates within the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (dual flush toilets, and faucets within the kitchens, kitchenettes, bathrooms & apartments). The showers in the residence hall are the largest water consumer (by a large %) within the residence hall buildings. To begin to understand the water amount actually used on the project, the owner conducted some initial on-site tests to determine the supply pressure to the plumbing fixtures, and how that translated into the actual flow. On-site tests for one of the buildings have been conducted on the flow rates of the shower heads with the following results: Fixture type currently installed = 2.5 gpm 1st floor: 52 psi static, 2.10 gpm 2nd floor: 46 psi static, 1.92 gpm 3rd floor: 41 psi static, 1.79 gpm 4th floor: 37 psi static, 1.85 gpm Question: o Would the design case account for the lower psi (reduced water use) by multiplying the \'Water Use\' column within the calculation template by the percentage of supply/baseline? For example for a shower on the first floor the \'Water Use" would be multiplied by 65% (52/80) or by just including 2.10 gpm as the flow rate for the fixture on this floor? o What is the appropriate methodology for establishing the calculation baseline when the water pressure supply rate (psi) is substantially lower than the 80 psi outlined as the baseline flow rates under the Energy Policy Act of 1992?
Ruling:
[Note: this ruling was revised on 9/1/04.] The underlying assumptions used for calculating projected water use savings should remain consistent between the baseline and design case. Supply water pressure varies across the United States and within individual buildings (as you note in your inquiry). Flow rates at 80 psi are used for the calculations in this credit for consistency and to reward use of efficient fixtures. It is recommended that all projects use the flow rates reported by the manufacturer at 80 psi for comparison with the Energy Policy Act of 1992 flow rates. If you wish to use on-site tests to report the most accurate volume of water use, you must be consistent throughout all fixtures and test both baseline and design fixtures. It is not acceptable to use flow rates at 80 psi for some fixtures and actual flow rates for other fixtures. Measurement can also be used to account for the benefits of whole-building strategies, e.g., flow restrictors at the water service entrance. Applicable Internationally.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
11/1/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
This is an inquiry about the calculation of the FTE in relation to our project in Zurich, Switzerland. In the LEED Reference Guide on page 53 the calculation of the FTE is based on a 8-hour working day. That means that an 8-hour occupant has an FTE value of 1.0. The standard working day in Switzerland contains 8.5 hours of work.In a FTE calculation on the basis that is provided in the LEED Reference Guide the normal working day of one single person would have the FTE value of 1.0625. As a consequence of the, in case of 1000 people fulltime staff this FTE calculation would have additional number of 63 FTE in comparion to an FTE value of 1.0.Is it possible to calculate the FTE value for this project with an 8.5 instead of 8 hour day, so that we would have the FTE value of 1.0 for a standard 8.5 hour-working day?
Ruling:
The project team has inquired if projects in Switzerland may use 8.5-hours as their working day instead of 8-hours as in the US. Each full-time employee based on Swiss and US labor laws works an 8.5-hour day, which includes a half-hour unpaid lunch break and two 15-minute paid breaks. In order to maintain the baseline for projects everywhere when calculating FTE occupancy, all Swiss projects, including those industries that have an overtime work culture for full-time employees, should still use the 8.0-hour work day in their FTE calculations. Applicable internationally.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
7/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Can municipally supplied treated seawater for toilet flushing be used as a strategy for earning WEp1 and WEc1 Water Use Reduction?
Ruling:
Update October 20, 2016: See the updated “Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance” document for new guidance on applying seawater or municipal wastewater to v2009 Water Efficiency credits.
Update October 1, 2013
Note that LEED Interpretation 10117 has been updated to clarify that seawater must be treated to appropriate levels for non-potable uses in order to apply to WEc2 Innovative Wastewater Technologies; seawater that is treated to potable drinking water standards would not apply. Any on-site energy use to desalinate the seawater must be included in the EAp2/c1 calculations. Refer to the guidance document. Applicability of Seawater in Water Efficiency credits also updated.
Original ruling July 1, 2012
No, municipally supplied sources of non-potable water, including seawater, are not applicable to the WE fixture water use reduction credits, including WEp1 (D+C, EBOM) and WEc1 (CI) Water Use Reduction, or considered graywater. As stated in LI 1551 (12/12/2006) This credit focuses on fixture efficiency and on-site water reuse. In addition, the Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance document (updated 8/16/2010, http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=6493), confirms that the focus of the pre-requisite is water efficiency of the installed fixtures, regardless of the water source, and only on-site water reuse is available as an alternative compliance path.
However, municipally treated wastewater (including treated seawater) applies to SSc1 - Path 9 Innovative Wastewater Technologies (CI), WEc2, Innovative Wastewater Technologies (BD+C), and can be used if the two conditions of LEED Interpretation 10117 are met: 1) the seawater is municipally supplied or explicitly approved by the municipality and 2) meets all applicable codes and permitting requirements, so as not to contaminate the municipal wastewater system with high salinity. For EBOM projects, where no wastewater credit is available, the project may apply for innovation credit for use of this strategy."
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10/1/13 notes: revise ruling and update resource: http://www.usgbc.org/resources/seawater-guidance
No, municipally supplied sources of non-potable water, including seawater, are not applicable to the WE fixture water use reduction credits, including WEp1 (D+C, EBOM) and WEc1 (CI) Water Use Reduction, or considered graywater. As stated in LI 1551 (12/12/2006) This credit focuses on fixture efficiency and on-site water reuse. In addition, the Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance document (updated 8/16/2010, http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=6493), confirms that the focus of the prerequisite is water efficiency of the installed fixtures, regardless of the water source, and only on-site water reuse is available as an alternative compliance path.
However, municipally treated wastewater (including treated seawater) applies to SSc1 - Path 9 Innovative Wastewater Technologies (CI), WEc2, Innovative Wastewater Technologies (BD+C), and can be used if the two conditions of LEED Interpretation 10117 are met: 1) the seawater is municipally supplied or explicitly approved by the municipality and 2) meets all applicable codes and permitting requirements, so as not to contaminate the municipal wastewater system with high salinity. For EBOM projects, where no wastewater credit is available, the project may apply for innovation credit for use of this strategy.
**Update October 1, 2013: Note that LEED Interpretation 10117 has been updated to clarify that seawater must be treated to appropriate levels for non-potable uses in order to apply to WEc2 Innovative Wastewater Technologies; seawater that is treated to potable drinking water standards would not apply. Any on-site energy use to desalinate the seawater must be included in the EAp2/c1 calculations. Refer to the guidance document. Applicability of Seawater in Water Efficiency credits also updated
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Should prison fixtures be included or excluded from WEp1 and WEc3 (WEc1 in CI) Water Use Reduction calculations?
Ruling:
Beginning with projects registered after 7/1/2012, prison water closets (toilets), urinals and safety showerheads must be included in water use reduction calculations for fixtures and fittings. This LI overturns the older LI 5033 (applicable to projects registered before 11/1/2011) and expands on the language of LI 10120 (applicable to projects registered between 11/1/2011 and 7/1/2012). Fixture use assumptions for prisoners follow the default fixture assumptions for residential occupants. Accordingly, lavatory faucets, toilets, and showerheads serving prisoners must follow the residential fixture requirements, baselines, and daily usage assumptions for the purposes of this prerequisite/credit. Internationally applicable.***Update 1/1/13: This LI is applicable to LEED NC v2.2
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
7/1/2012
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Can municipally supplied treated seawater for toilet flushing be used as a strategy for earning WEp1 and WEc1 Water Use Reduction?
Ruling:
Update October 20, 2016: See the updated “Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance” document for new guidance on applying seawater or municipal wastewater to v2009 Water Efficiency credits.
Update October 1, 2013
Note that LEED Interpretation 10117 has been updated to clarify that seawater must be treated to appropriate levels for non-potable uses in order to apply to WEc2 Innovative Wastewater Technologies; seawater that is treated to potable drinking water standards would not apply. Any on-site energy use to desalinate the seawater must be included in the EAp2/c1 calculations. Refer to the guidance document. Applicability of Seawater in Water Efficiency credits also updated.
10/1/13 notes: link resource and edit ruling: http://www.usgbc.org/resources/seawater-guidance
No, municipally supplied sources of non-potable water, including seawater, are not applicable to the WE fixture water use reduction credits, including WEp1 (D+C, EBOM) and WEc1 (CI) Water Use Reduction, or considered graywater. As stated in LI 1551 (12/12/2006) This credit focuses on fixture efficiency and on-site water reuse. In addition, the Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance document (updated 8/16/2010, http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=6493), confirms that the focus of the prerequisite is water efficiency of the installed fixtures, regardless of the water source, and only on-site water reuse is available as an alternative compliance path.
However, municipally treated wastewater (including treated seawater) applies to SSc1 - Path 9 Innovative Wastewater Technologies (CI), WEc2, Innovative Wastewater Technologies (BD+C), and can be used if the two conditions of LEED Interpretation 10117 are met: 1) the seawater is municipally supplied or explicitly approved by the municipality and 2) meets all applicable codes and permitting requirements, so as not to contaminate the municipal wastewater system with high salinity. For EBOM projects, where no wastewater credit is available, the project may apply for innovation credit for use of this strategy.
**Update October 1, 2013: Note that LEED Interpretation 10117 has been updated to clarify that seawater must be treated to appropriate levels for non-potable uses in order to apply to WEc2 Innovative Wastewater Technologies; seawater that is treated to potable drinking water standards would not apply. Any on-site energy use to desalinate the seawater must be included in the EAp2/c1 calculations. Refer to the guidance document. Applicability of Seawater in Water Efficiency credits also updated.
Original ruling July 1, 2012
No, municipally supplied sources of non-potable water, including seawater, are not applicable to the WE fixture water use reduction credits, including WEp1 (D+C, EBOM) and WEc1 (CI) Water Use Reduction, or considered graywater. As stated in LI 1551 (12/12/2006) This credit focuses on fixture efficiency and on-site water reuse. In addition, the Water Use Reduction Additional Guidance document (updated 8/16/2010, http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=6493), confirms that the focus of the prerequisite is water efficiency of the installed fixtures, regardless of the water source, and only on-site water reuse is available as an alternative compliance path.
However, municipally treated wastewater (including treated seawater) applies to SSc1 - Path 9 Innovative Wastewater Technologies (CI), WEc2, Innovative Wastewater Technologies (BD+C), and can be used if the two conditions of LEED Interpretation 10117 are met: 1) the seawater is municipally supplied or explicitly approved by the municipality and 2) meets all applicable codes and permitting requirements, so as not to contaminate the municipal wastewater system with high salinity. For EBOM projects, where no wastewater credit is available, the project may apply for innovation credit for use of this strategy."
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
No
5/9/2011
LEED Interpretation
Inquiry:
Are swimming pools excluded from the calculations for WE Prerequisite 1?
Ruling:
This is correct as the prerequisite only covers fixtures specified in the Reference Guide and regulated by one of the standards listed. These fixtures and fixture fittings include water closets, urinals, lavatory faucets, showers, kitchen sink facets, and pre-rinse spray valves. Applicable internationally.
Campus Applicable
No
Internationally Applicable:
Yes
LEEDuser expert
Carlie Bullock-Jones
LEED Fellow, WELL AP
Ecoworks Studio
Principal
