We would like to use a non default lavatory faucet duration of 15 seconds instead of the 30 seconds.
GBCI review comment for this non default duration is as folows:
Provide published data/studies justifying an alternate usage duration. This value may not be modified for durations specified by a manufacturer, which may be preset to shorter durations, as the manufacturer’s duration setting may not reflect typical usage patterns given variability in occupant behavior.
Has anyone addressed such a review comment with published data or any other such documentation?
Regards,
Ruju
emily reese moody
Sustainability Director, Certifications & ComplianceJacobs
LEEDuser Expert
452 thumbs up
March 31, 2021 - 5:13 pm
Hi Ruju,
Using duration-based savings for automatic fixtures was allowed in v2009, but was specifically removed for v4 projects. The Reference Guide states in the Changes from LEED 2009 section at the end of the credit language the following:
"Duration-based savings from autocontrol faucets with automatic fixture sensors or metering controls are no
longer allowed in the design case. Studies have shown that autocontrol faucets do not save water because users
frequently reactivate the faucet after initial use or stop washing before the cycle ends."
Although I believe we've seen some projects attempt to still document a non-default duration within this credit's forum pages, I don't believe I've seen any succeed. The CDC has recommended a minimum of a 20-second duration for handwashing, which requires at least two 15-second cycles, thereby negating claimed savings of a single cycle. You might be able to find some qualifying data/studies to justify less than 30 seconds, but I highly doubt any would go as low as 15 seconds.
Maybe you'll get lucky and someone else can chime in with a solid case where it was accepted.
Peter Downar
January 12, 2022 - 12:46 pm
Has anybody tried using special circumstance to reduce the lavatory faucet run time and succeeded? Interested to know if there is any possible circumstance