U.S. shipments of residential gas storage water heaters for August 2011 decreased 8%, to 284,536 units, down from 308,646 units shipped in August 2010. Residential electric storage water heater shipments decreased 5% in August 2011, to 284,574 units, down from 299,048 units shipped in August 2010.
Where do health care facilities looking to up their sustainability profile start? Here, we shine
a light on expected sites and some lesser-known resources. Archived video from conferences,
toolkits for benchmarking, assessing a facility for CHP, general design guides, and even primers for executives looking to get the ball rolling … ideas and tips for good design and operations run a lot deeper than LEED®.
Using data trend logs to supplement in-field functional performance testing (FPT) has always been an option in the commissioning process, particularly for HVAC systems controlled by DDC systems. As DDC system trending capabilities and computer hardware storage capacities have improved substantially over the past few years, I propose that trend logs be given a more prominent place in the commissioning toolbox.
With the help of advances in intelligent controls and a shift in design mindset, these systems can steer buildings toward smaller equipment sizes and associated savings. Review three projects and consider the benefits of keeping an upcoming project in the loop.
As I read the press release, something about the DOE’s planned user test bed facility at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab reminded me of the old Wendy’s commercial from the ’80s that most of you are, uh, mature enough to recall.
In this overview of building information modeling, the authors review how BIM helped in three different projects, often with particular usage- and efficiency-based HVAC demands. While BIM’s space management skills can reduce costly changeorders and building design “clashes” ahead of time, in at least one instance, using BIM actually influenced the HVAC strategy for the better, too. See how HGA Architects and Engineers has used this to become a “model” firm.