Hello,
We have a design completed in California with constant volume packaged rooftops controlled as a VVT system. The owner is contemplating getting LEED certification. My understanding of IEQp1 is that it is incompatible with a VVT system. Because, for example, if a zone has a call for heating but the zone furthest from setpoint has a call from cooling, the zone requiring heat will close off the zone damper and not receive any airflow as the rooftop would be in cooling mode.
Am I right in my thinking that this will not pass muster with a LEED reviewer?
Nancy Henderson
Managing MemberArchEcology, LLC
83 thumbs up
July 13, 2017 - 12:50 pm
Hi Brian - I am not a guest expert, but I do have some experience with VVT systems. We have successfully had a VVT system get through review - but they are not commonly used because they cause the exact problem you mentioned. It is all about the design and the controls and it is hard to get right - especially with design-build. Our system had to be rigorously commissioned to make sure we got the minimum outside air to the critical zones - even in the worst case operating mode. I would say it is tricky - but not impossible. These systems are also not used often because they are notoriously bad for thermal comfort. Perhaps that is not a great concern for this project.