Achieving the optimal environment for learning Presenter: Geoffrey J. Bacci, M.S., C.I.H. John R. Robinson III, C.S.B.O DirectorGeneral Manager Aires Consulting GroupPerformance Services, Inc

2 Districts face competing objectives Capital cost of construction Operating costs – Energy Maintaining acceptable air quality Make the classroom environment facilitate learning: – Comfort – Noise – Perception

Cost of Construction Energy Use Learning Environment

4 Lets understand the challenges Indoor Air Quality

Historical Perspective 1970’S OIL IMPORT CRISIS

Historical Perspective BETTER LIVING THROUGH CHEMISTRY

Historical Perspective ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS TO ENERGY $$

ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS Reduce air infiltration Minimize fresh air make up Uses of new insulation products

ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS 1970 standards for fresh air make up were 5 cfm per person or 60% less than current code requirements

RESULTS OF ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS Increase in Carbon Dioxide levels Increase in trace chemicals due to source and ventilation

IAQ PROBLEM ?

NEXT ENGINEERING SOLUTION Increase Fresh air Bring in outside air moisture

RESULTS OF ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS Increase in inside moisture without effective cooling (de- humidification) Increased potential for mold growth

ALL MOLDS Sensitive individuals – nasal stuffiness, eye irritation or wheezing Series mold allergies – more severe reactions Pre-existing Chronic illness – pulmonary mold infections

To grow mold Need Nutrients; paper, dirt, fabrics Proper temperature (room temperature) Moisture

MOLD IT’S THE WATER STUPID!

Source of Moisture High humidity – absolute moisture > 1.1% Outside Leaks; roofs and foundations Inside leaks; condensation

Chronic mold problems High humidity Condensation Building envelope issues are generally more acute – unless ignored

IAQ issues that impact the learning Environment Fresh Air Supply Temperate/Humidity Mold growth – Noise – Illumination

HVAC IS EVERYTHING Controls Moisture Provides Fresh Air Regulates Temperature

Problem HVAC Unit Ventilators 2 Pipe Systems No AC with modern building materials

Good HVAC Ventilation that is distributed throughout the room - Quiet Temperature Control during transitional seasons

Good HVAC Cooling Loads that can dehumidify max occupant loads Carbon Dioxide/occupancy control - ENERGY

Chilled water Insulation Fiberglass with factory VB does not last < 5 years Poly – ISO with Seran VB – 30 years Anything with a good VB

50 o F Outside Air 85 o F 70% RH Dew Point 74 o F Vapor Barrier to prevent humidity from reaching the cold pipe Sufficient Insulation to prevent outside from reaching saturation temperature Cross Section of Pipe Insulation

3/14/ Zeston fitting not sealed

Mechanical & Electrical Construction Has the biggest impact on the inside classroom environment Has the biggest opportunity to give Energy pay back Traditionally gets the least amount of design attention

At Aires we make a business out of fixing design/operational mechanical problems. Maybe we should just build it right!

50-Year Lifecycle Cost of a Typical Building O & M, 1 st Cost, Financing, Renovations 14% 25% 50%

Why do we focus on 1 st Cost? 1 st Cost Financing Renovations O & M

Building it Right! HVAC systems usually account for about 20% of the project but causes the greatest close- out issues Single design, lowest responsible bid drives project

How to Avoid the Pitfall Design-Build Guaranteed Energy Savings Contract Multiple designs to choose from based on performance first, rather than on first cost Standardizes equipment selection Selects favored contractors the District has positive experiences with, and ability to negotiate after bidding to get the best price Can specify desired outcome, such as temperature, CO2 levels, light levels, mechanical noise, humidity All competitively bid with multiple companies and subs

Guaranteed Energy Savings Contracts – A Better Way To Buy! Best utilized in HVAC/Mechanical system upgrades, new construction and renovations Best solution is selected, not lowest responsible bidder No upfront costs to the District No Change Orders – Design-Build company owns both design and construction Continuous M & V, commissioning process guarantees performance and savings are realized to the District