HVAC Green Application 4

Key Lessons from HVAC In HVAC, we learned about: Thermal and air building science Installation of HVAC equipment and systems Startup and troubleshooting of the system’s operation Alternative heating systems

Green Building Principles and HVAC Each of HVAC’s key lessons can shape these important green principles: Energy efficiency Durability and water management Indoor air quality Green product selection Reduce material use and recycle waste Work with other trades Homeowner education and training manual

Energy Efficiency HVAC directly shapes one of the largest sources of energy that we use in our homes: our heating and air conditioning. A green HVAC technician will look for energy efficient alternatives when picking and installing key equipment.

Energy Efficiency An HVAC technician can: Select energy-efficient equipment Size heating and cooling equipment Design and install energy-efficient HVAC ducts and distribution Maintain and ensure the integrity of the insulation and air barrier Maintain the system correctly

Durability and Water Management HVAC systems can shape the amount of moisture in the air and the home, and sometimes collect water condensation. A green HVAC technician will ensure that all moisture-carrying equipment is properly drained.

Indoor Air Quality Because the HVAC systems transports air from, around, and out of the home, it plays the largest role in indoor air quality of all trades. A green HVAC technician will ensure that appropriate filtration is provided, and that the system is balanced with other necessary vents.

Indoor Air Quality An HVAC technician can: Install combustion exhaust, kitchen, and bathroom equipment ventilation Install fresh air ventilation and air filtration systems Understand radon gas and other air particulate matter mitigation Avoid system water leaks and condensation that could lead to mold and mildew growth

Green Product Selection There are many materials and products that an HVAC technician uses, and many of these (like ducts) are used in large quantities. A green HVAC technician will select materials and products that both use less material and energy in their manufacturing, and less energy in their operations.

Green Product Selection An HVAC technician can: Select HVAC products and materials with low environmental Impact Select locally made materials and fixtures Select and install environmentally- friendly products

Reduce Material Use and Recycle Waste HVAC is material-intensive, and oftentimes does not use the materials efficiently. An HVAC technician can design and install duct layouts that are efficient and then reuse or recycle the leftover rather than wasting it.

Reduce Material Use and Recycle Waste An HVAC technician can: Design a material-efficient HVAC layout Minimize HVAC waste Recover and recycle refrigerant Integrate HVAC waste into the jobsite- recycling program

Work with Other Trades A green HVAC technician must coordinate with almost every other trade that might change the overall performance of the building. For example, the HVAC technician must know where the carpenter will frame to ensure minimal penetrations, and where house wiring and plumbing fixtures are located for temperature control.

Homeowner Education and Training Manual A green HVAC technician is always ready to make sure that her work is maintained properly to last a long time. HVAC technicians can provide information to occupants about where their air comes from, the kinds of equipment and controls in the home, and how to be energy and air conscious.

Referencing HVAC and the Green Application HVAC SectionRelevant Green Application Section 1.IntroductionEnergy Efficiency Indoor Air Quality 2 InstallationGreen Product Selection Reduce Material Use and Recycle Waste Durability and Water Management Work with Other Trades 3 Startup and ServiceEnergy Efficiency Indoor Air Quality Homeowner Education and Reference Manual 4 HeatingEnergy Efficiency