The 30% increase in ventilation above ASHRAE 62.1-2007 is a good idea in dry climates. Our issuse is that we have several projects that are seeking LEED Silver with client (GSA) demanding the increased ventilation credit be applied. Since most of these projects are located in southeastern humid climates we are concerned that even with ERVs our system loads will demand too much additional tonnage and dehumidification to be prevent mold concerns. Has anyone addressed these concerns and is there a reference in the LEED V3 manual where this is noted so we may reflect such to our owner?
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Roger Chang
Principal, Energy and Engineering LeaderDLR Group | Westlake Reed Leskosky
LEEDuser Expert
398 thumbs up
April 29, 2010 - 9:17 am
I think the best way to tackle this one is to do some energy modeling comparing a case with 30% increased ventilation to one without. You'll typically find a hit with energy performance, which can then be presented to the GSA. They're much more interested in energy, than ventilation, given the stringent energy targets that need to be met. New construction will typically need to hit 30% better than ASHRAE 90.1-2007. With an ERV, you can still get by with a high outside air fraction in the SE US, as long as equipment is properly matched to the load. ASHRAE 62.1-2007 provides some good guidance on conditions to assume for dehumidification calculations.