I am working on a pair of naturally ventilated dormitories in a relatively cool/mild climate -- the highest mean monthly temperature is 76 degrees F and the RH is between 60-70%, with some outlying hours closer to 50% and 80%. (The 80% humidity is during the summer, when the buildings are not likely to be fully occupied.)
The buildings have radiant heating and no mechanical cooling. Because the mechanical engineer was only involved with ventilation in the corridors and restrooms, I'm having a hard time determining if we should bother pursuing this credit, and if yes, then how. Any thoughts? These are major renovations to existing buildings through NC v2.2.
We are especially interested in this credit because the client will be doing regular post-occupancy surveys, so we would like to get credit for EQ7.2 as well. Alternatively, if we can't fully document EQ 7.1, is there any way to still get EQ 7.2? My understanding is no, but the reference guide does not spell this out.
Gunnar Hubbard
93 thumbs up
March 19, 2010 - 2:43 pm
There's a section in ASHRAE 55 (5.3) specifically written for naturally ventilated spaces. If the project complies with that section then they meet ASHRAE 55 conditions as required by LEED. I believe the section applies to spaces that have operable windows, and cooling is primarily by unconditioned outdoor air.
If you do the calculations and your project cannot earn EQc7.1, LEED does not allow you to earn EQc7.2. LEED reviewers will question EQc7.1 compliance and wait to award EQc7.2 until 7.1 is awarded.