The Improving Ventilation and Saving Energy Banner and LBNL Logo
 
Home
Study Goals
Lab Study
Field Study
Data Collection
View Data
Study Sponsors
Related Links
References
Contact
Study Publications
 
IVSE Study Goals: Ventilation System Improvement

Ventilation System Improvement
To show that the new advanced HVAC system is physically interchangeable with current HVAC models in use on RCs while providing the following:

  • Continuous outside air ventilation in amounts that meet the current California Energy and Occupational Codes and ASHRAE 62 Standard
  • Real time signals to the ventilation unit that will constantly and continuously ventilate the classroom when it is occupied regardless of temperature
  • Indoor CO2 concentration below 1000ppm at all times
  • Air velocities and temperatures that lead to acceptable thermal comfort base upon the ASHRAE 55 Standard

Making the advanced HVAC system compatible with current HVAC installation standards is extremely important. It will allow for the replacement of old HVAC system with the advanced one on classrooms that are already in use. This will increase the speed of the market transition to the advanced HVAC system while at the same time reducing the cost of the transition.

A quick transition to the new system is important because ventilation rates in classrooms often do not meet the current AHSRAE standards of 15 cubic feet per minute per person. Low ventilation rates lead to the build up of harmful air pollutants such as toxic and/or irritating volatile organic compounds (VOCs). High indoor CO2 levels imply the potential for elevated levels of other pollutants. CO2 and other indoor pollutant levels can be reduced with increased indoor to outdoor air exchange. Therefore, improving ventilation is a primary goal for the IVSE study. Having real time signals to the air handler will allow for automatic ventilation to occur when the classroom is in use. This will aid in providing continuous and consistent ventilation and reducing CO2 concentrations below 1000ppm.