August 2023 Newsletter
Welcome to the latest edition of our newsletter! As we approach the new school year, there are critical developments in the fields of energy efficiency, building sustainability, and health safety that demand our attention. In this issue, we delve into the potential of occupancy-based HVAC controls in commercial buildings, exploring their cost-effectiveness and decarbonization benefits. Additionally, we spotlight the advancements in heat pump technology that are driving HVAC efficiency and electrification, vital components in the journey towards sustainability. In the realm of education, we bring you essential guidance from the CDC and ASHRAE on reducing airborne infection risks in schools, outlining strategies for improved ventilation and air quality. Join us in discovering how these advancements are shaping a more energy-efficient, sustainable, and health-conscious future.
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Varitec; supporting our community for a better tomorrow.
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Creating an Innovative Building Design through Creative, Adaptive Architecture, Engineering and Collaboration
This article, co-authored by Varitec's Dan Hahne, discusses the complex challenge of aligning evolving building code requirements with the reduction of carbon emissions and improved indoor air quality, highlighting its impact on conventional HVAC system designs. Focusing on the City of Phoenix's adoption of updated energy conservation codes, the article underscores the necessity of reimagining architectural and engineering approaches to meet these new standards. It dives into the Helios Foundation building case study, showcasing the collaborative efforts between architects and mechanical engineers to harmonize design and function. The narrative delves into the incorporation of innovative HVAC technologies like active chilled beams and the integration of adaptable design features for natural ventilation. Ultimately, the article emphasizes that successful collaboration between design disciplines and a commitment to forward-looking strategies can lead to structures that not only meet but exceed evolving codes while fostering sustainable, comfortable, and inspiring environments.
Decarbonizing Buildings Using Commercial Heat Pumps
Commercial buildings hold a significant role in combating climate change, accounting for almost 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions, largely from their daily operations. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are key contributors to energy consumption in such buildings. The transition to electric heat pumps for heating offers a sustainable solution, as they use low-carbon electricity efficiently, reducing emissions. This shift aligns with corporate decarbonization goals and government regulations, while technological advancements have expanded heat pump applications for various climates. Heat pump adoption is incentivized by rising efficiency standards, financial models, and tax deductions, promoting energy savings and sustainability. The evolving landscape of heat pump technology promises continuous innovation, driving the commercial sector toward decarbonization through energy efficiency, electrification, and digitalization strategies.
DOE Collaborates with AHRI Research Unit for Refrigerant Project
The Department of Energy (DOE) joins forces with the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) research unit to embark on an ambitious refrigerant project. This partnership aims to address critical challenges in refrigerant technology and sustainability. By leveraging the expertise of AHRI's research unit, the DOE seeks to revolutionize the refrigerant landscape, paving the way for environmentally friendly and energy-efficient cooling solutions that will have a lasting impact on the HVAC-R industry.
Guidance to control airborne infection risks - what schools need to know
?Get ready for the upcoming school year with new guidelines from CDC and ASHRAE. They suggest using basic and enhanced strategies to improve ventilation, filtration, and air flow in schools to minimize airborne infection risks. ASHRAE's Standard 241 establishes essential requirements for outdoor air ventilation and air cleaning systems. Join the webinar to learn more from experts on how schools can prepare and reduce infection risks. Presented by U.S. EPA and the Efficient and Healthy Schools Program. Register now!
?Hosted by: U.S. EPA and the Efficient and Healthy Schools Program
August Webinar
During building commissioning, it is not uncommon to see fans supplying less air than what the design documents call for. The most common reaction of a startup crew is to assume the fan is undersized or does not perform in compliance to fan schedules or the approved submittals. Non-compliance with design airflow is more often than not attributed to fan system effect. How air moves through a duct will impact the amount of air supplied to a building.
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Dan Hahne, Varitec’s Director of High-Performance HVAC Solutions, will present on:
·???How fans are factory tested in accordance with AMCA-prescribed test methods
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·???Fan performance certification for exhaust and supply fans
·???Review of how fan curves are created and how to read them
·???Review the probable causes of airflow shortage
·???What installed duct conditions to look for in the field when there is an airflow shortage
·???How to apply AMCA 201 fan system effect tables
·???The fan laws and how to calculate new fan speeds or determine what horsepower replacement fan motors required to overcome system effect
?(1) PDH will be available for registered architects or PEs attending this presentation.?
Adopting occupancy-based HVAC controls in commercial building energy codes: Analysis of cost-effectiveness and decarbonization potential
This journal article investigates the potential of occupancy-based HVAC controls (OBCs) in commercial buildings for energy savings and decarbonization. Using parametric simulations and a nationwide cost-effectiveness analysis, the study assesses three building types and 40 U.S. cities. The findings suggest that while current OBC cost-effectiveness is limited due to high sensor costs, integrating societal carbon cost factors could enhance their performance. Furthermore, reducing sensor costs and incorporating OBCs could lead to substantial energy savings and CO2 emissions reductions. The article highlights the evolving integration of occupancy sensing technologies into building energy codes and provides valuable insights for policymakers, industry professionals, and researchers striving for more efficient and sustainable commercial buildings. Read More
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