9.18 Hvac Guide: Chapter 9 - Design Guides

OGS Design Procedures Manual
A Guide to Designing Projects for Design
& Construction
Chapter 9 - Design Guides
9.18 HVAC GUIDE

A.
GENERAL
1.
The purpose of this guide is to convey general basis-of-design, standard of

quality, and OGS preferences as they relate to building HVAC system design.
Specific client agency and facility preferences shall be revealed through each
designers investigations on the project. Agency-specific requirements may be
found elsewhere in this manual.
2.
The design engineer shall acquire at the projects outset a minimum working
knowledge of the project intent, scope and extent of HVAC work. This activity
may also require coordination with designers from one or more trades.
3.
The initial scope and extent of HVAC work shall be verified by visiting the project
site and further communicating with the designated project Team Leader.
4.
The engineer shall identify the HVAC systems, equipment, materials, and any
specialized professional services or systems required to execute the project.
5.
All applicable New York State and industry codes and standards invoked by the
codes must be recognized early in the design stage so that they can be referred
to whenever required throughout the projects design phases.
6.
The designer shall show that the latest green building solutions have been
incorporated and/or considered in the design consistent with the projects
established Executive Order 111, LEED or sustainability goals or requirements.
7.
Review the requirements included in the applicable design forms (BDC-401, BDC402, BDC-26, BDC-188, etc.).
8.
Perform HVAC calculations according to ASHRAE recommendations for system

designs wherever applicable. The calculations may be required for review at the
initial design phase. They should be preserved as part of the record of design.
9.
The HVAC designer shall coordinate with the project structural engineer in the
Program phase to determine the seismic design requirements for the project.
10.
All ductwork and piping penetrations into different fire or smoke zones shall be
protected with appropriately rated (fire or smoke) dampers and/or sealing
compounds.
11.
Coordinate the HVAC equipment location with all the architectural and
engineering trades right from the project outset.
12.
Avoid using equipment with CFC based refrigerants.
Date Created 03/11/09

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 1

B.
& Construction
13.
Identify through testing the existence of asbestos, and other hazardous materials
in the work area during the Program Phase. Coordinate abatement scope of work
and procedures with project Certified Asbestos Designer.
14.
Generally, use the ASHRAE symbol list for all sketch and drawing
representations.
15.
Final equipment choice shall be the result of a best value assessment which takes
into account function, materials, features, O&M issues, costs and project budget.
16.
For most standard equipment, systems and materials the OGS Master
Specifications sections provide additional prompts and selection/editing directions
based on established preferences.
17.
Utilize HVAC Design Guide checklists where applicable.
MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT ROOMS (MERs)

1.
Provide MER ventilation and/or combustion air system in accordance with the
Mechanical Code of New York State and the equipment manufacturers printed
recommendations. Perform design calculations and indicate CEM quantities
along with relative locations and sizes of ventilation inlets and outlets, on the
drawings. Fit the inlets/outlets with motorized dampers with position indicating
switches.
2.
Show sizes of all structural openings (doors, hatches, etc.) to be used to introduce
the equipment for installation in the Mechanical Equipment Room.
3.
Show clearances required by the National and local codes as well as for
operation, maintenance, and eventual replacement of the equipment. For
large/long component maintenance (AHU coils, boiler tubes, heat exchanger
bundles, etc.), show size of the maintenance apron on the floor plan.
4.
Generally avoid routing piping and ductwork above electrical equipment/panels in

the MER.
5.
Coordinate with the plumbing engineer to identify the quantity and/or location of
the floor drains to satisfy the equipment drainage, and the recommended
maintenance/good housekeeping of the MER.
6.
Provide safety detection and protection hardware and systems to safeguard

against hazardous fluids/substances present in the MER. The design shall be per
the equipment or substance manufacturers recommendations and satisfy the
Mechanical Code of New York States requirements.
7.
All floor-mounted or supported equipment shall be on concrete housekeeping

pads that are (min. 4) longer and wider than the equipment base. The pad shall
be lagged to the floor with (min. 4) steel anchoring devices and chamfered all

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 2

& Construction
around. Its height (min. 4) and reinforcement requirements may vary depending
on the weight and dynamic forces produced by the equipment.
C.
8.
The final sizing and layout of the boiler/mechanical equipment should also
consider a possible future expansion of the facilitys requirements.
9.
Depending on the location/size of the room and the capacity of its equipment,
cooling, ventilating and/or combustion air heating equipment (boiler rooms) may
have to be added to assure proper ambient temperature.
10.
For larger size equipment, design ladders and/or walkways to facilitate routine
inspection and maintenance.
11.
All major hydronic and steam equipment shall be designed with shut-off valves to
facilitate their maintenance and replacement.
12.
Access doors or spaces shall be designed with each air handling, hydronic and
steam system, whenever concealed components and/or systems need
visual/manual monitoring and servicing.
BOILERS
1.
It is preferred to design the heat generating plant with more than one boiler.
When two boilers are chosen, size each boiler at about 75% of the heating load.
For three boilers, each units IBR rating should be about 50% of the load.
2.
Choose the type of boiler (cast iron, dry-base, scotch marine, water tube, etc.)
based on the application (working pressure and temperature, fuel used,
construction material, draft type, low emissions, condensing or not, etc.),
efficiency requirements, and the dimensional constraints of the boiler room.
3.
Choose the fuel(s) to be used based on local availability, cost, and environmental
constraints.
4.
Design the boiler controls, piping and valves, and its fuel train per NFPA 85
requirements. Specify high turn-down ratio for applications with widely fluctuating
loads.
5.
Estimate the boilers induced draft requirements for sizing the exhaust duct,
induced draft fan (if required), forced draft system (if required), and chimney.
Design larger HP induced (and forced) draft fans preferably with VFD.
6.
The boiler water may have to be softened to about 7.0 pH and/or chemically
treated before it is introduced and/or returned into the boiler feed system. Design
the water softening and chemical treatment systems, manual or automatic, as
required for each application.
7.
Whenever a liquid (glycol) solution is used as a heat transfer fluid, make sure it is
environmentally acceptable and approved by DEC.

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 3

D.
& Construction
8.
For hot water boiler systems, the expansion tank and water circulating pump(s)
shall be preferably placed up-stream of the boiler.
9.
The hot water GPM/velocity through the boiler should be within the
manufacturers acceptable limits.
10.
Consider the design of a heat recovery system when continuous blow-down is

used. If not, make sure it is blended down to an acceptable temperature before it
is released into the local storm sewer.
11.
Design the low pressure steam boiler with gravity return system using the Hartford
Loop return piping scheme.
12.
For larger plant installations and at the request of the client agency, a SCADA
system may be considered.
13.
The hot water boiler circulating pump, or steam boiler condensate pump or feed
water pump, should be designed preferably with stand-by pump and VFD (for
larger HP).
14.
For steam humidification applications, the water to the steam generator may be
softened but not chemically treated.
15.
For high pressure steam boilers, design the generator and storage tank according
to the manufacturers instructions.
16.
Specify company field advisor to do operational and performance tests as

required for boiler acceptance.
CHILLERS
1.
Design the chiller plant using redundant chiller units, budget permitting. Choose
high efficiency units, Energy Star rated (where available), featuring a green
refrigerant.
2.
Depending on the application and with the manufacturers agreement, consider

using VFD with the compressor motor.
3.
For year-round operation, design for low ambient conditions.
4.
Size the chilled water and condenser water pumps so as the water velocities in
the evaporator and condenser tubes are within the chillers acceptable limits.
5.
Evaluate need for chemical treatment of the chill water and condenser water
systems.

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 4

E.
& Construction
6.
Design refrigerant detection and purge ventilation of the MER/chiller room.

Provide detection and purge exhaust originating at maximum 18 above finished
floor for heavier-than-air refrigerants.
7.
When retrofitting a chiller with a green refrigerant, check the new operating
pressures, against the existing chiller components (valves, fitting, pressure
vessels, etc.) design parameters.
8.
When designing a split DX (condensing unit air handler evaporator coil) system,
ensure that the relative installed height and distance between the condensing unit
and evaporator unit meet the manufacturers requirements. If possible, place the
condensing unit at a lower level than the evaporator.
9.
For the split DX system, consider using hot gas by-pass for capacity control,
especially with 100% outdoor air. For larger systems, chose multi-step
compressors.
10.
Specify company field advisor services in sufficient quantity to address start-up,

commissioning tests, and personnel training on major equipment.
COOLING TOWERS
1.
Design for either induced or forced draft cooling towers, which-ever best fits the
application. Unit shall be ARI rated. Multi-cell tower installations are preferred for
redundancy/backup and load matching.
2.
The tower shall incorporate design options that ensure a life expectancy that
matches the chillers. Freeze protection should also be included with year-round
applications. Some systems can feature a remote tower sump located within a
heated mechanical space, eliminating the need for freeze protection at the cooling
tower basins.
3.
Depending on water quality, consider incorporating chemical treatment and/or

water-to-water heat exchanger in the tower systems design.
4.
Design the piping system and size the cooling tower water pump and piping
system so as to minimize loosening and ejection of the units water spray nozzles.
5.
Provide isolation valves at each cell as well as the equalization piping of multi-cell
towers to allow full servicing of a cell while the remainder of the system remains
operational.
6.
Typical piping arrangements for multi tower installations will minimize, but not
eliminate, the need for flow balancing.
7.
The cooling tower design parameters (water temperatures, pressure, flow rates)
should match those of the associated chiller. Some care should be taken to
assure that the manufacturers minimum and maximum flows for the chiller and
towers are compatible under all anticipated operating scenarios.

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 5

F.
G.
& Construction
8.
A fan vibration switch with a manual reset should be considered to compel

physical inspection of the towers by facility maintenance staff.
9.
Tower bypass piping may be desired to allow cold weather chiller system startups.
AIR HANDLING UNITS (AHUs)

1.
Identify in the drawings the equipment and access sections comprising the
packaged AHU.
2.
Choose the package construction (single or double wall, insulation) and fan type
(FC, BI, Airfoil, etc.) that results in acceptable performance and noise levels.
Units shall be ARI certified and UL listed.
3.
Make sure air velocities through sections and coils are as recommended by the
equipment manufacturer.
4.
Incorporate the proper filtration and monitoring system for the application.
5.
Evaluate the application and/or benefit of using VFD(s) with a (30%) minimum
VAV setting. High efficiency inverter duty motors are required on variable speed
applications.
6.
Make sure there is available space and service clearance for piping coils, drains,
and traps.
7.
Integrate the control hardware and software to protect against component freezeup and allow for optimum operating cycles, including free cooling (whenever
justifiable) and fire/smoke control.
8.
For 100% outdoor air applications, the face-and by-pass design is considered
safer against freeze-up.
9.
Generally, the draw-through configuration is preferred.
10.
Consider heat recovery for installations with large exhaust volumes.
11.
Generally, choose a fan to operate within its stable region and safely within the
maximum speed and static pressure range.
AIR SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT

1.
Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality shall be achieved as per ASHRAE
Standard 62. Consider air flow measurement and/or demand control ventilation
via CO2 measurement.

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 6

& Construction
2.
Generally, design the ducted air distribution and exhaust systems using the equal
friction method. Industrial ventilation, however, should be done using the
constant velocity method. Low pressure/velocity design should be followed.
3.
Except for special applications (raised floor computer rooms, etc.) it is preferred to
use ductwork, instead of plena, for air distribution (supply and return) in a
space/facility. It is preferred to use ductwork, instead of plena, for air distribution
(supply and return) in a space/facility.
4.
The fresh air intakes and exhaust shall be located so as not to introduce
pollutants to the inhabited space. Furthermore, size the louver/grille for reduced
air velocity to minimize noise, pressure loss, and rain/snow carryover through the
intake. Incorporated drains at the building and AHU intakes.
5.
Choose the size, shape, fitting/accessories, material composition, and layout of

the ductwork that best fits the application and minimizes the friction loss, as well
as the overall system noise level. Generally, design the ductwork per the latest
SMACNA standards. Avoid ducts featuring high aspect ratios.
6.
Roof mounted intakes, fans, and AHU, shall be preferably set on minimum 12
high curbs.
7.
Humidification and dehumidification are not pursued for normal applications.

Specialty spaces like asset storage or computer room spaces may require such
systems.
8.
The air filtration system may be integral with the equipment. The level of filtration
must satisfy the requirements of the particular application.
9.
Room terminal units:

a.
Determine the type of equipment to be used, (VAV box, unit ventilator fan
coil, etc.) based on the application, i.e. design conditions, fresh air
requirements, HVAC loads, and installation limitations.
b.
At facilities with difficult to balance hydronic systems, piping the terminal unit
with 3-way valves is preferable.
c.
Choose the units fan (s), accessories, and control options that result in
acceptable noise level and overall space comfort.
d.
For correctional facilities, design and install additional safety options per that
agencys requirements.
10.
Air Distribution Accessories:

a.
Design and install the supply grilles, registers, or diffusers in each space so
as to result in acceptable draft conditions, noise level, and system air
pressure drop.
b.
For the return or exhaust application, design and install the grille, register, or
diffuser to minimize noise and air pressure drop.
c.
For correctional and similar type facilities, follow the agency-specific
guidelines.

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 7

H.
& Construction
11.
Fans:
a.
Determine the type of fan (power roof ventilator utility fan, centrifugal in-line,
propeller fan, etc.) that best fits the application.
b.
Size the supply or exhaust systems static pressure using the equal friction
method.
c.
Choose the fan to operate in its safe region and safety below its maximum
speed and static pressure point.
12.
Kitchen Ventilation:
a.
Design and install the kitchen exhaust hood, ductwork, exhaust fan, makeup air system, and fire protection system per NFPA (96, 70, 17, 13, 12),
manufacturers printed recommendations and local codes.
13.
Ductwork:
a.
Design duct and accessories according to the latest SMACNA
recommendations, unless otherwise required by the particular application or
project.
b.
Incorporate volume dampers in duct branches for system balancing.
HOT AND CHILLED WATER SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT

1.
Piping System:
a.
Generally, design the system using a constant pressure drop (of maximum 4
feet per 100 feet of piping, average about 2.4 feet), providing the fluid
velocity is within acceptable limits (about 10 FPS maximum).
b.
Unless the system is constant flow reverse return, only control valves that
perform well under varying upstream pressure conditions should be
considered.
c.
Consider use of flow control valves, flow balancing valves, and flow
metering accessories, as required by the application.
d.
Incorporate isolation valves so that all equipment and instruments attached
to the system may be easily serviced or replaced.
e.
Evaluate the piping systems expansion and show all provisions for
anchoring, guiding, and compensation on the drawings.
f.
Provide air vents with all piping systems.
g.
Include a backflow preventer with any hydronic system connected to a
potable water system.
h.
Insulate, support, and pitch the piping system.
i.
Design the water treatment system as required by the application.
j.
Provide valved capped branches to facilitate future system modifications.
2.
Pumps:
a.
Consider any extra fouling that may be present after years of operation of
the hydronic piping and equipment when estimating the systems total
pressure head.
b.
Choose the type of pump (in-line, base mounted, split case, etc.) that best
suits the application.

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 8

c.
d.
& Construction
Pipe the pump installation to include isolation valves, suction Y strainer,

suction and discharge pressure gauges, and adequate suction piping length
or suction diffuser.
Consider using VFD, vibration isolators, and flexible piping connections as
required by each application.
3.
Hydronic Heat Exchangers/Convectors:

a.
Choose the type of exchanger (shell-and-tube, plate-and-frame, etc.) that
best fits the application.
b.
Size the unit according to the manufacturers recommendations.
c.
Pipe the exchanger with isolation valves, temperature and pressure gauges,
two- or three-way valve and controls that best fit the hydronic system and
application.
4.
Terminal Units (Fan-Coil, Unit Heater, Finned Tube Radiation, etc.):

a.
Design, pipe, and install the terminal unit based on the space load,
application, and manufacturers instructions.

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 9

I.
& Construction
PACKAGED HVAC UNITS CHECKLIST

Drawing/Design Checklist:
Yes
No N/A
Have the control points been confirmed?
Are alarm types determined?
Electrical system interlocks connections completed?
Is the equipment stand specific?
Voltage and motor amps (per phase) documented and included in the
project folder?
Electric reheat and humidifier connected?
Vibration isolation complete?
Manufacturers O&M available?
Manufacturers startup sheets attached with this checklist?
TAB report and field notes attached with this checklist?
Are notes for a special shut down drain of the system included if the
current system does not have isolation valves?
Will the unit require emergency power?
Is the direction of the flow designated on the drawing with arrows?
Are all details completed, correct, and applicable on drawings?
Will isolation valves need to be installed for future maintenance and
are they included in the project scope?
Schedule and drawings do not include specific product name, number
or vendor?
Is an equipment schedule with specifications included?
Is there adequate space for the replacement and electrical equipment?
Is the equipment accessible via manufacture specified clearances?
Is there need for temporary HVAC units or spot chillers to be used
during the current removal?
Will the provided unit require assembly (unable to install as one unit)?
Is rigging involved and included in contract documents?
Is coil pull area shown in the drawings?
In 100% OA (or high OA percentage) units, F&BP dampers and/or any
other freeze protection mechanisms included?
Is glycol necessary in heat transfer medium?
Are energy efficiency measures like economizer/heat recovery/VFD
included?
Is code required smoke detector along with FA tie-in for units above
2000 CFM included?
If new roof openings are required, is warranty reviewed and included in
spec if applicable?
Removal Checklists:
Yes
No N/A
Is disassembly of the current unit required for removal?
Have all electrical system components that require removal,
reinstallation, and/or relocation been noted?

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 10

& Construction
Does the scope include housekeeping pad removals/installations (if

required)?
Are overhead and/or floor structures able to hold structures used in the
removal and disposal of existing units?
Are special installation and removal details noted in the project
documents or drawings?
Does phasing need to be set up or can the unit be replaced during off
hours/seasons?
Do existing units have ACM insulation panels inside, ACM in pipes and
fittings?
Coordination Checklist:
Yes
No N/A
Coordinated with Electrical Engineer all electrical data and locations.
Coordinated with Structural Engineer all structural data and locations.
Coordinated with Plumbing Engineer all plumbing data and locations.
Coordinated sequence of operation and schedule with one-line
diagram.
Coordinated all equipment, piping and structures with one-linediagram.
Coordinated with Fire Protection Engineer all fire protection data and
locations.
Coordinated air intakes with discharges according to code.
Coordinated with Architect all visible HVAC locations.
Coordinated with Architect all required access flooring modifications.

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 11

J.
& Construction
PUMP CHECKLIST
Yes
No N/A
Include flow rate (gpm) on the one-line diagram.
Are pump inlet/outlet size correct?
Is the equipment scheduled and included with the project documents?
Are the pump curves included in the project files?
Are the head pressure calculations included in the project documents?
Have all possible vibrations (with in specification) been reviewed and
addressed?
Is the equipment accessible via manufacturer specified clearances?
Are the automatic temperature control, direct digital control panel, and
all associated controls designated on drawings?
One-line diagram layout completed?
Are all HVAC pumps located on floor plan?
Pump classification agrees on floor plan, diagrams, and schedule.
Is the correct piping connected to each pump?
Does the system include a valve for preventing backflow?
or vendor?
Is there adequate space for the replacement and electrical equipment
clearances?
Is there need for temporary equipment to be used during the current
removal?
Are circulating pumps pumping away from expansion tank?
Are domestic hot water recirculation pumps of all bronze construction?
Are balance valves and triple duty valves selected by flow not line
size?
Are condensate and boiler feed pumps, handling 200 degree
condensate, low NPSH pumps?
Removal Checklists:
Yes
No N/A
Is disassembly of the current pump required for removal?
Are all electrical system components that require removal,

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 12

& Construction

required)?
Can the unit be replaced during off hours/seasons?
Does the facility/client wish to retain any of the removed equipment?
Yes
No N/A
Coordinated with Electrical Engineer all electrical data and locations
including: motor control and variable-speed drive panels.
Coordinated with Plumbing Engineer all plumbing data and locations
including: floor drains and water make-up.
Coordinated with Structural Engineer all structural data and locations
including: housekeeping pad and inertia pads.
Coordinated all equipment, piping and structures with one-line
diagram.
diagram.
locations.

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 13

K.
& Construction
AIR HANDLING UNIT CHECKLIST

Yes
No N/A
Are notes for a special shut down drain of the water system included if
the current system does not have isolation valves?
Has a timeline been determined to disconnect the old AHU and
connect the new?
Does phasing need to be set up or can the AHU be phased during off
hours/seasons?
Is there need for temporary HVAC units to be used during the current
AHU removal?
Is the outside louver adequate for the application?
Is there adequate power to the AHU?
Is emergency power required?
Have all electrical code issues been resolved?
Will the unit require assembly (unable to install as one unit)?
Has the current AHU been tested for true output capacities, pressures,
and flow rates?
Does the coil have a drain?
Does the cost scope include removal and disposal cost?
or vendor?
Is rigging involved and included in contract documents?
Is coil pull area shown in the drawings?
In 100% OA (or high OA percentage) units, F&BP dampers and/or any
other freeze protection mechanisms included?
Is glycol necessary in heat transfer medium?
Are energy efficiency measures like economizer/heat recovery/VFD
included?
Is code required smoke detector along with FA tie-in for units above
2000 CFM included?
If new roof openings are required, is warranty reviewed and included in
spec if applicable?
Removal Checklist:
Yes
No N/A
Is disassembly of the current AHU required for removal?
Are special installation and removal details noted on drawings?

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 14

& Construction

required)?
Does phasing of the old unit need to be set up?
Do existing units have ACM insulation panels inside, ACM on pipes
and fittings?
Yes
No N/A
diagram.
diagram.
locations.

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 15

L.
& Construction
BOILER CHECKLIST
Yes
No N/A
Are the equipment rooms code requirements up to date?
Has the designer chosen the optimum boiler for the application?
Do the plans include new housekeeping pads for the unit (if required)?
Are there permits required and if so are they noted on drawings or in
project folders?
Is the correct size of wire and starter used per contract?
Have all flow (gpm, velocity, and pressure drop) values for hot water
and steam been noted on correct diagram?
Is the electrical scope of the boiler identified?
Do the documents include motor amperage and voltage?
Are the correct pipe sizes and exhaust vents used per manufacture
specification, building code and OGS specifications?
Are the temperature controls complete and points confirmed?
Is the piping supported independently of the boiler?
Has insulation been used per code?
Is there need for temporary boilers to be used during the current
removal?
or vendor?
Removal Checklist:
Yes
No N/A
Is disassembly of the current Boiler required for removal?
Are special installation and removal details noted on the drawings?
Does the removal scope include all pertinent information for fuel tank
removal (if required)?
Is the electrical scope identified for removing the boiler?

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 16

& Construction
Yes
No N/A
including: motor control and emergency interlocks.
including: weights, housekeeping pads and inertia pads.
Coordinated with Plumbing Engineer all plumbing data and locations
including: floor drains, gas load, gas pressure and water makeup.
diagram.
diagram.
locations.

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 17

M.
& Construction
CHILLER CHECKLIST
Yes
No N/A
Are all ventilation code requirements up to date?
Has heat tracing been completed?
Is the gas relief vented to the outside?
Are notes for a special shut down or drain down of the system included
if the current system does not have isolation valves?
Is the electrical scope of the chiller identified?
Included is the pressure drop and velocity for all distribution points on
flow diagram.
Is the glycol solution (if used) non toxic?
Is the equipment scheduled and included in the project documents?
or vendor?
Have the pumps been specifically selected for chiller compatibility (i.e.
VFD, CHW conditions, glycol temps)?
Is the correct starter used?
Do the documents include motor amperage and voltage?
Has insulation been used per code?
Are the temperature controls complete and points confirmed?
Has the issue of vibration isolation been addressed?
Is there need for temporary chillers or spot coolers to be used during
the current removal?
clearances?
Has refrigerant leak detection and ventilation been accounted for?
Have features or arrangements been specified to facilitate tube bundle
cleaning?
Removal Checklist:
Yes
No N/A
Is disassembly of the current chiller required for removal?
Does the scope include housekeeping pad removals (if required)?

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 18

& Construction

Yes
No N/A
diagram.
diagram.
locations.

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 19

N.
& Construction
COOLING TOWER CHECKLIST

Yes
No N/A
If roof alterations are necessary, have they been included in the project
documents?
Has a second water meter been utilized to record water make-up
separate from water circulation?
Is the piping adequately supported separate from the unit?
Is the motor amperage and voltage included in the project documents?
Has a waterside economizer been considered?
Are any structural supports needed to receive new cooling tower and
are they noted in the project documents?
Have non-chemical filters such as a sand filter been considered for the
condenser water system?
Is the piping to the condenser sized correctly?
Is equalizing piping in the design and is it properly sized?
Has system flushing and pressure testing been determined in the
scope of work?
Is all insulation adequate and compliant with code?
Has the electrical requirements been determined for the new unit?
Has an assessment of the water vapor carryover been complete to
determine if it will stain or deteriorate surrounding structures or
landscape?
Has the most efficient and optimum cooling tower been chosen?
Are there permits required and if so are they noted on drawings or in
project folders?
or vendor?
Is there need for temporary HVAC units to be used during the current
removal?
Do design selection criteria match the chiller design criteria?
Has a stainless steel sump been specified for long life?
Is rigging crane/helicopter in tall buildings included, or is field-erected
specified?
Staging area below identified and structural steel on roof in place?

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 20

& Construction
Are energy efficient measures like 3 speed fans/VFDs included?

Was existing water treatment contract reviewed?
Removal Checklists:
Yes
No N/A
Is disassembly of the current cooling tower required for removal?
required)?
Does the existing cooling tower have asbestos containing
components?
Yes
No N/A
diagram.
diagram.
locations.

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 21

O.
& Construction
FAN CHECKLIST
Yes
No N/A
or vendor?
Are all details completed, correct and applicable on drawings?
Are the automatic temperature control, direct digital control panel, and
all associated controls designated on drawings?
Included on one-line diagrams are minimum CFM for each section and
turn down.
Is vibration isolation accounted for?
Do fan boxes that are not able to have internal vibration isolators
feature flexible duct connections?
Are the static pressure calculations included in the project records?
Do the layouts include a riser diagram?
Does the project folder include performance curves for the fan?
Does the system include dampers for flow control?
clearances?
Is there need for temporary fans to be used during the current
removal?
Will the provided unit require disassembly/assembly to install?
Will isolation dampers need to be installed for future maintenance and
Removal Checklist:
Yes
No N/A
Is disassembly of the current fan required for removal?
required)?

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 22

& Construction
Yes
No N/A
including: fan motor, electric coil, power, smoke detectors and
disconnect switches.
including: weights and roof openings.
diagram.
diagram.
Coordinated morning warm up sequence along with night setback.
Coordinated with Acoustics Engineer all noise levels heard in public
areas.
Coordinated with Kitchen Consultant all kitchen data and locations
including: hood fans and exhaust fans (if applicable).
Coordinated with Lab Consultant all lab data and locations.
locations.

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 23

P.
& Construction
HEAT EXCHANGER CHECKLIST

Yes
No N/A
Included flow rates (gpm) on the one-line diagram?
Are the head pressure calculations included in the project documents?
Have the proper valves been used per ATC specifications?
Are the control devices indicated on drawings?
or vendor.
Is there adequate space for the replacement?
Is there need for temporary units to be used during the current
removal?
Is there a vacuum breaker on the shell of the steam to water shell and
tube heat exchanger?
Is there adequate room to remove the tube bundle on all shell and tube
heat exchangers?
Are steam to water, shell and tube heat exchangers, pitched down
from steam supply inlet (top of shell) to condensate outlet (bottom of
shell), to facilitate condensate removal?
Removal Checklists:
Yes
No N/A
Is disassembly of the current heat exchanger required for removal?
required)?

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 24

& Construction
Yes
No N/A
diagram.
diagram.
End Of HVAC Guide

9.18 HVAC Guide
Page 25

9.18 Hvac Guide: Chapter 9 - Design Guides

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

9.18 Hvac Guide: Chapter 9 - Design Guides

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

9.18 Hvac Guide: Chapter 9 - Design Guides

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

OGS Design Procedures Manual

A Guide to Designing Projects for Design

Chapter 9 - Design Guides

9.18 HVAC GUIDE

The purpose of this guide is to convey general basis-of-design, standard of

Perform HVAC calculations according to ASHRAE recommendations for system

Avoid using equipment with CFC based refrigerants.

Date Created 03/11/09

Chapter 9 - Design Guides

OGS Design Procedures Manual

Utilize HVAC Design Guide checklists where applicable.

MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT ROOMS (MERs)

Generally avoid routing piping and ductwork above electrical equipment/panels in

Provide safety detection and protection hardware and systems to safeguard

All floor-mounted or supported equipment shall be on concrete housekeeping

Date Created 03/11/09

Chapter 9 - Design Guides

OGS Design Procedures Manual

Date Created 03/11/09

Chapter 9 - Design Guides

OGS Design Procedures Manual

Consider the design of a heat recovery system when continuous blow-down is

Specify company field advisor to do operational and performance tests as

Depending on the application and with the manufacturers agreement, consider

For year-round operation, design for low ambient conditions.

Date Created 03/11/09

Chapter 9 - Design Guides

OGS Design Procedures Manual

Design refrigerant detection and purge ventilation of the MER/chiller room.

Specify company field advisor services in sufficient quantity to address start-up,

Depending on water quality, consider incorporating chemical treatment and/or

Date Created 03/11/09

Chapter 9 - Design Guides

OGS Design Procedures Manual

A fan vibration switch with a manual reset should be considered to compel

AIR HANDLING UNITS (AHUs)

Generally, the draw-through configuration is preferred.

Consider heat recovery for installations with large exhaust volumes.

AIR SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT

Date Created 03/11/09

Chapter 9 - Design Guides

OGS Design Procedures Manual

Choose the size, shape, fitting/accessories, material composition, and layout of

Humidification and dehumidification are not pursued for normal applications.

Room terminal units:

Air Distribution Accessories:

Date Created 03/11/09

Chapter 9 - Design Guides

OGS Design Procedures Manual

HOT AND CHILLED WATER SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT

Date Created 03/11/09

Chapter 9 - Design Guides

OGS Design Procedures Manual

Pipe the pump installation to include isolation valves, suction Y strainer,

Hydronic Heat Exchangers/Convectors:

Terminal Units (Fan-Coil, Unit Heater, Finned Tube Radiation, etc.):

Date Created 03/11/09

Chapter 9 - Design Guides