Sustainable Building Technical Manual - Etn-presco.net

SECTION BBuildings Systems andIndoor Env i ro n m e n t a lQ u a l i t yDesigning and installing environmentally sound and energy-efficient systems have along-term impact on the cost-effective operations of a building and on the productivity ofbuilding occupants. Chapter 12 in this section provides guidance on types of heating,ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system components that will most effectivelymeet design goals and also examines lighting and other electrical systems for efficiency inproducts and practices.Indoor environmental quality is also reviewed, with a focus on indoor air quality (IAQ)and acoustics as two aspects that can affect building occupants’ health and productivity.Chapter 13 outlines strategies to achieve good IAQ through control of contaminantsources and occupant activity and through good ventilation and building maintenancepractices. Chapter 14 discusses how desired sound control levels can be reachedthrough design practices, construction techniques, and attention to mechanical systemsand surface finishes.Building commissioning, a practice to ensure building systems are installed, operate, andare maintained to meet design goals, is discussed in Chapter 15.