The need to keep FTEs consistent through all credits is stressed though in the case of IEQp1 where for Mechanical Ventilation, table IEQp1-3, for code compliance based on square footage, the Pz (zone population) numbers provided by our Mechanical Designer are far greater than those anticipated for FTE.
In reality, the ventilation system is designed to meet code for far more occupants than will ever be expected. I am wondering if this inconsistency would flag consideration by a reviewer.
FTE=86, Total Peak Occupants = 226.
Total Pz=310
Hernando Miranda
OwnerSoltierra LLC
344 thumbs up
September 29, 2014 - 4:17 pm
The requirement for FTEs to match goes back to an error made by the LEED v2 Reference Guide authors. The error creates a huge loophole for projects that do not actually meet the requirements of ASHRAE 62.1. It has been more than 10 years and the error still exists. Based on my 15 years of working with the USGBC, and 4 years as the vice-chair of the IEQ Technical Advisory Group, it will never be corrected.
Engineers should NEVER use LEED calculations as the basis for sizing a ventilation system. That would create a design liability problem.