Looking for a 2nd opinion on PLF3. The Transients / FTE defined on Form PLF3 are used for determining water usage, bike racks, showers, and designated parking spaces. They are not used when designing HVAC systems and ventilation correct? For example, let's say I have a 1500 sf conference room and I calculate it's occupancy based on general office space which works out to 6 FTE, no transients. This would be the number used for water calcs, showers, etc. But when designing the HVAC system for the space it has to be done based on maximum occupancy which is 200 occupants. My inclination is to assume that since the space will be unoccupied the majority of the time, counting 200 transients / day isn't the intent of the credit. Is this correct?
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David Posada
Integrated Design & LEED SpecialistSERA Architects
LEEDuser Expert
1976 thumbs up
February 4, 2011 - 10:53 am
Correct, you don't want to use code or HVAC load occupancy numbers for FTEs in LEED forms - just what you expect or estimate to be the number of people using the building. As long as it is reasonable, and you "show your work" it shouldn't be a problem.