This credit requires that MERV 13 filters be installed during construction and after construction is complete. Our mix-use project includes window mounted PTAC (Package Terminal Air Conditioner) units for the Residential portion and several water cooled air handling units for the first floor grocery store. There are no MERV 13 filters made that would fit the PTAC units, so we propose to seal all openings on the PTACs with tape and plastic and not use them until after all work is substantially complete, all dust-generating activities are finished, the building is cleaned and the punch list has been completed, similar to a recent CIR. The grocery store water cooled air handling units would be unable to operate properly with the pressure drop created by the MERV 13 filters, as confirmed by the Mechanical Engineer of Record, so we propose to install MERV 11 filters instead. We propose that our strategy meets the intent of IEQ 3.1 and should qualify for the credit.
The credit ruling dated 3/11/2003 provides an alternative approach that removes the need for MERV 13 filtration media DURING the construction process. The ruling, however, did not clearly note that, regardless of the system protection method used during construction, new MERV 13 filtration media must be installed at air handlers immediately prior to occupancy as noted in the LEED Rating System. Although the project is proposing an appropriate alternative for system protection during construction, the equipment does not appear to support the use of MERV 13 filtration media required to achieve this credit. -- *NOTE (Nov 1 2007): Per errata posted in Fall 2007, there is no LEED or ASHRAE 52.2-1999 requirement for MERV 13 filtration during construction. LEED-NCv2.1 EQc3.1 requires MERV 8 filters on return air grills during construction, and for all filtration media to be replaced with MERV 13 immediately prior to occupancy/at the end of construction. Applicable Internationally.