We have a project that is predominantly a parking garage structure. All of the enclosed circulation, storage and restroom areas are provided with natural ventilation via operable windows and no air conditioning systems. However, there are four small rooms (about 140sq.ft. each) used as offices and they are provided with ductless split systems and operable windows for natural ventilation as the ductless systems are not really equipped to take and condition outside air. I was wandering if somebody had a similar situation where the space is provided with a/c and is relaying on operable windows for natural ventilation. Would this be acceptable approach to meet the IEQp1and has anybody ran into an issue with the EAp2 and EAc1 by using this strategy? Would we need an interlock to shut down the a/c unit when the window is opened or do something special from energy consumption stand point?
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Roger Chang
Principal, Energy and Engineering LeaderDLR Group | Westlake Reed Leskosky
LEEDuser Expert
398 thumbs up
August 8, 2011 - 2:53 pm
Natural ventilation is acceptable, as long as the window area meets the area requirements of ASHRAE 62 (4% of net occupiable floor area). The latest version of ASHRAE 62 contains additional guidance that I recommend be followed Section 6.4).