Does the SF6 (Sulphur Hexafluoride) insulating gas used to quench the arc in electrical power equipment (MV switchgears) need to be taken into consideration under the EAc4? The credit language states that only the refrigerants in HVAC&R equipment are considered in the calculation. Nonetheless, I just wanted to confirm this as SF6 is a greenhouse gas which has a very large GWP. From my review, there do not seem to be any other LEED credits that would limit the use of SF6. Does anyone know anything to the contrary? Thanks!
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Tristan Roberts
RepresentativeVermont House of Representatives
LEEDuser Expert
11477 thumbs up
February 4, 2011 - 7:20 am
Lara, there is a bit more too this credit. It also prohibits fire suppression systems using CFCs, hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) or halons. If SF6 is considered to be one of these, then using it counts here. If not, then I'd say it's not considered for this credit, despite its high GWP.
Veronika Sundberg
Environmental Engineer - CertificationSkanska Sverige AB
120 thumbs up
January 16, 2012 - 5:52 am
Is the LEED requirement for HVAC&R equipment OR for any refrigerant that creates HVAC&R for the buildings users? A product that is used for cooling the equipment (not get to warm for example as the one mentioned above) but it is NOT used in any equipment that creates HVAC&R for the building (air conditioner, freezer or comparable). Should that refrigerant be included or not? I do believe so, but please advise.
Thank you!
Tristan Roberts
RepresentativeVermont House of Representatives
LEEDuser Expert
11477 thumbs up
February 18, 2012 - 12:28 am
Veronika, the scope of the credit is defined in the credit language above. It's not a simple yes/no answer to your question. Among other things, fire suppression systems are considered.