4.11 Mechanical Plan Check Documents

At the time a building permit application is submitted to the enforcement agency, the applicant also submits plans and energy compliance documentation. This section describes the forms and recommended procedures documenting compliance with the mechanical requirements of the Standards. It does not describe the details of the requirements; these are presented in Section 4.2. The following discussion is addressed to the designer preparing construction documents and compliance documentation, and to the enforcement agency plan checkers who are examining those documents for compliance with the Standards.

4.11.1  Field Inspection Checklist

New for the compliance forms is the Field Inspection Energy Checklist. Prescriptively the Documentation Author is responsible for filling out the Field Inspection Energy Checklist. For the Performance Approach the fields will be automatically filled. A copy shall be made available to the Field Inspector during different stage inspection.

The Field Inspection Energy Checklist is designed to help Field Inspectors look at specifics features that are critical to envelope compliance. These features should match the building plans as indicated on the Mechanical Field Inspection Energy Checklist or NRCC-MCH-01-E. The Field Inspector must verify after the installation of each measure (e.g. HVAC Systems). The Field Inspector 'in 'addition must collect a signed MECH-INST (Installation Certificate) from the installer.

In the case of the Field Inspection Energy Checklist does not match exactly the building plans or the MECH-INST form, the field inspector must verify the features are meeting the minimum efficiency or better and if so no further compliance is required from the Architect or responsible party. In the case the features do not meet the efficiencies (worse) the field inspector shall require recompliance with the actual installed features.

A.   HVAC SYSTEM Details

The Field Inspector need check the Pass or Fail check boxes only after the measures have been verified. If the Special Feature is checked, the enforcement agency should pay special attention to the items specified in the checklist. The local enforcement agency determines the adequacy of the justification, and may reject a building or design that otherwise complies based on the adequacy of the special justification and documentation. See MECH-2C Pages 1-2-3 of 3.

B.   Special Features Inspection Checklist

The local enforcement agency should pay special attention to the items specified in this checklist. These items require special written justification and documentation, and special verification. The local enforcement agency determines the adequacy of the justification, and may reject a building or design that otherwise complies based on the adequacy of the special justification and documentation submitted. See MECH-1C Pages 2-3 of 3.

C.   Discrepancies

If any of the Fail boxes are checked off, the field inspector shall indicate appropriate action of correction(s). See Field Inspection Energy Checklist on Page 2 of MECH-1C.

The use of each form is briefly described below and then complete instructions for each form are presented in the following subsections. The information and format of these forms may be included in the equipment schedule:

NRCC-MCH-01-E: Certificate of Compliance

This form is required for every job, and it is required to part on the plans.

NRCC-MCH-02-E: Air, Water Side, and Service Hot Water & Pool System Requirements

This form summarizes the major components of the heating and cooling systems, and service hot water and pool systems, and documents the location on the plans and in the specifications where the details about the requirements appear.

NRCC-MCH-03-E: Mechanical Ventilation and Reheat

This form documents the calculations used as the basis for the outdoor air ventilation rates. For VAV systems, it is also used to show compliance with the reduced airflow rates necessary before reheating, re-cooling or mixing of conditioned airstreams.

NRCC-MCH-407-E: Fan Power Consumption

This form is used, following the prescriptive approach, to calculate total system fan power consumption for fan systems exceeding 25 brake horsepower.  The “total system” includes supply, exhaust and return fans used for space conditioning. 

NRCC-PLB-01-E:  Certificate of Compliance – Water Heating System General Information

This form is required for every job, and it is required to part on the plans.

NRCI-PLB-01-E:  Water Heating System

This installation form is used for all hot water system

NRCI-PLB-02-E:  High Rise Residential, Hotel/Motel Single Dwelling Unit Hot Water Systems Distribution

This installation form is used when individual water heating system is installed in each dwelling units in High Rise Residential, Hotel/Motel

NRCI-PLB-03-E:  High Rise Residential, Hotel/Motel Central Hot Water Systems Distribution

This installation form is used when central water heating system is installed that service multiple dwelling units in High Rise Residential, Hotel/Motel

NRCI-PLB-04-E:  Nonresidential Single Dwelling Unit Hot Water Systems Distribution

This installation form is used when individual water heating system is installed in each dwelling units in High Rise Residential, Hotel/Motel

NRCI-PLB-05-E:  Nonresidential Central Hot Water Systems Distribution Water Heating System

This installation form is used when central water heating system is installed that service multiple dwelling units in High Rise Residential, Hotel/Motel

4.11.2  NRCC-MCH-01-E: Certificate of Compliance

NRCC-MCH-01-E is the primary mechanical form. The purpose of the form is to provide compliance information in a form useful to the enforcement agency’s field inspectors.

This form should be included on the plans, usually near the front of the mechanical drawings. A copy of these forms should also be submitted to the enforcement agency along with the rest of the compliance submittal at the time of building permit application. With enforcement agency approval, the applicant may use alternative formats of these forms (rather than the Energy Commission’s forms), provided the information is the same and in similar format.

A.   Project Description

PROJECT NAME is the title of the project, as shown on the plans and known to the enforcement agency.

DATE is the last revision date of the plans. If the plans are revised after this date, it may be necessary to re-submit the compliance documentation to reflect the altered design. Note that it is the enforcement agency’s  discretion whether or not to require new compliance documentation.

B.   Documentation Author’s Declaration Statement

The CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE is signed by both the Documentation Author and the Principal Mechanical Designer who is responsible for preparation of the plans of building. This latter person is also responsible for the energy compliance documentation, even if the actual work is delegated to a different person acting as Documentation Author. It is necessary that the compliance documentation be consistent with the plans.

DOCUMENTATION AUTHOR is the person who prepared the energy compliance documentation and who signs the Declaration Statement. The person’s telephone number is given to facilitate response to any questions that arise. A Documentation Author may have additional certifications such as an Energy Analyst or a Certified Energy Plans Examiner certification number. Enter number in the EA# or CEPE# box.

C.   Declaration Statement of Principle Mechanical Designer

The Declaration Statement is signed by the person responsible for preparation of the plans for the building and the documentation author. This principal designer is also responsible for the energy compliance documentation, even if the actual work is delegated to someone else (the Documentation Author as described above). It is necessary that the compliance documentation be consistent with the plans. The Business and Professions Code governs who is qualified to prepare plans and therefore to sign this statement. See Section 2.2.2 Permit Application for applicable text from the Business and Professions Code.

D.   Compliance Forms and Worksheets

The checkboxes list all applicable compliance forms or worksheets included with the compliance documentation submitted to the enforcement agency.

E.   Acceptance Requirements

The Designer is required to list all system and identify the applicable acceptance testing required. The Designer should think about who will be conducting the tests and list this person in the section titled “Test Performed By” if applicable. Those who are allowed to conduct the tests are the installing contractor, design professional or an agent selected by the owner. Note that a single system may require multiple acceptance tests, depending on the type of system.

4.11.3  NRCC-MCH-02-E Overview

A.   Mechanical Mandatory and Prescriptive Measures

The mandatory measures and prescriptive measures must be incorporated into the construction documents. Left column, NRCC-MCH-02E (Parts 1, 2, and 3) list the measures and the section numbers in the Building Efficiency Standards where the requirements for those measures are specified. The columns labeled Indicate Page Reference on Plans or Schedule are for designating the specific sheet on the plans or specification section(s) where the measures used to comply with the Standards are documented. As noted below the table, a reference to specifications must include both a specification section and paragraph number. The remaining cells in this form are organized with a separate column for each system (or groups of similar systems). In each column, the documentation author shall identify where each of the required measures are specified on the plans or in the project specifications. Where a measure is not applicable to the specific system, the letters “NA” (for not applicable) are placed in the cell. Groups of similar systems can be entered in a single column where appropriate.

In the plans or specifications where the specific details of compliance are shown, the designer may use whatever format is most appropriate for specifying the required measures. This will generally take one of several forms:

1.   The material is incorporated into an equipment schedule on the mechanical plans. This includes items like equipment efficiencies, capacities (desired equipment size and calculated required capacity) and some features like air-side economizers.

2.   The material appears on the plans in a general notes block. Examples of these are the “mandatory measures block” that was used in the project.

3.   The material is incorporated into the specifications. For most control measures this will be in the sequences of operations under the controls specification section. For equipment features like tower flow turndown or heat pump thermostats this will typically be in either the equipment schedules or the specification sections for the specific piece of equipment. Where specifications are used, the documentation must be specific enough to point the code official to the page (or specific paragraph) where the feature is specified.

The information on this form may be incorporated into the plans or on a spreadsheet.

4.11.4  NRCC-MCH-02-E Air System Requirements (Dry)

A.   Item or System Tags

At the start of each column identify each air-side unit or groups of similar units using the Items or System Tag(s) from the plans or specifications.

B.   Mandatory Measures

For each item below, identify the plan or specification section where the required feature is specified.

1.     HEATING EQUIPMENT EFFICIENCY – This is the minimum code-mandated heating equipment efficiency found in §110.1 or §110.2(a). Where appropriate, both full- and part-load efficiency must be identified.

2.     COOLING EQUIPMENT EFFICIENCY – This is the minimum code-mandated cooling equipment efficiency found in §110.1 or §110.2(a). Note both the full- and part-load efficiencies must be identified.

3.     HEAT PUMP THERMOSTAT – Heat pump systems indicate the controls that minimize the use of electric resistance heat as required by §110.2(b), §110.2(c). The electric resistance heat can only be used for defrost and as a second stage of heating.

4.     FURNACE CONTROLS – The specified plan sheet must indicate the furnace control requirements of §110.2(d) (IID and power venting or flue damper for furnaces ≥ 225 MBH input rating) and §110.5(a) (ignition by other than a pilot light).

5.     NATURAL VENTILATION – The specifications for operable openings, their control (if appropriate) and location found in §120.1(b). Note this will likely cross reference architectural plans.

6.     MINIMUM VENTILATION – The specification for minimum OSA at both the central and zone levels in compliance with §120.1(b).

7.     DEMAND CONTROL VENTILATION – If demand control ventilation systems are either required or provided per §120.1(c)4, identify the specifications for the CO2 sensors and controls.

8.     Occupant Sensor CONTROL – Identify the control specifications for preoccupancy purge per §120.1(c)5 and scheduling control per §120.2(e)3 for each system. This item should be in the control sequences or in the specification for a time clock or programmable thermostat.

9.     Shutoff and Reset  CONTROL – If shufoff or reset controls are required per §120.2(e), identify the specifications for these off hour controls. This item should be in the control sequences.

10.  OUTDOOR DAMPER CONTROL – Identify the specifications for automatic or barometric dampers on OSA and exhaust openings as specified in §120.2(f).

11.  ISOLATION ZONES – Identify the specifications for isolation zone controls that are required by §120.2(g) for units serving multiple floors or areas in excess of 25,000 ft². This item should be in the control sequences.

12.  Automatic Demand Shed Controls – Identify the specifications for automatic demand shed controls that are required by §120.2(h).

13.  Economizer FDD – Identify the specifications for economizer FDD that are required by §120.2(i).

14.  DUCT INSULATION – Identify the specifications for duct insulation greater than or equal to the requirements of §120.4.

C.   Prescriptive Measures

1.     CALCULATED COOLING/HEATING CAPACITY – Confirm that the cooling/heating equipment is sized in conformance with §140.4 (a & b).

2.     FAN CONTROL – For VAV systems, identify the specifications for fan volume control per §140.4(c). For constant volume systems, enter “NA” in these cells. For VAV fan systems over 10 hp, the modulation must be one of the following:

Variable pitch vanes.

Variable frequency drive or variable-speed drive.

Other; A specification for a device that has a 70 percent power reduction at 50 percent airflow with a design pressure setpoint of 1/3 of the fan total static pressure.

3.     SIMULTANEOUS HEAT/COOL – Indicate the controls or sequences that stage the heating and cooling or for VAV systems reduces the supply before turning on the zone heating. §140.4(d)

4.     ECONOMIZER – Indicate the specification for an air or water economizer that meets the requirements of §140.4 (e). The specification must include details of the high limit switch for airside economizers. If an economizer is not required, indicate by entering “NA.”

5.     HEAT AND COOL SUPPLY RESET – Indicate the specification for supply temperature reset controls per §140.4(f). This will typically be a sequence of operation. This control is required for systems that reheat, re-cool, or mix conditioned air streams.

6.     ELECTRIC RESISTANCE HEATING – Indicate which of the five exceptions to §140.4(g) applies to the project. For more information, see Section 4.6.2E.

7.     DUCT SEALING – Indicate the specification for duct leakage testing where required by §140.4(l). Note this only applies to small single units with either horizontal discharge or ducts in un-insulated spaces.

4.11.5  NRCC-MCH-02-E Water Side System Requirements (Wet)

A.   Item or System Tags

At the start of each column identify each chiller, tower, boiler, and hydronic loop (or groups of similar units) using the system tag(s) from the plans or specifications.

B.   Mandatory Measures

1.     EFFICIENCY – This is the minimum code-mandated heating or cooling equipment efficiency as specified in §110.1. Where appropriate both full- and part-load efficiency must be identified. This is typically identified in the equipment schedules.

2.     HEAT REJECTIONS SYSTEM - Applies to heat rejection equipment used in comfort cooling systems such as air cooled condensers, open cooling towers, closed-circuit cooling towers and evaporative condensers.
§110.1, §140.4 (i)

3.     PIPE INSULATION – Identify the specifications for pipe insulation greater than or equal to the requirements of §120.3.

C.   Prescriptive Measures

1.     TOWER FAN CONTROLS – For cooling towers identify the specifications for fan volume control per §140.4(h)2, §140.4(h)5. Each fan motor 7.5 hp and larger must have a variable speed drive, pony motor or two-speed motor for no less than 2/3rds of the tower cells.

2.     TOWER FLOW CONTROLS – For cooling towers identify the specifications for tower flow control per §140.4(h)3. Each tower cell must turn down to 50 percent or the capacity of the smallest pump whichever is larger.

3.     Centrifugal Fan Cooling Towers – Identify the specification for centrifugal fan cooling towers per §140.4(h)4.

4.     Air-Cooled Chiller Limitation – Identify the specifications for air-cooled chillers per §140.4(j).

5.     VARIABLE FLOW SYSTEM DESIGN – Identify the specifications for two way valves on chilled and hot water systems with more than 3 control valves per §140.4(k). This is often shown on the chilled or hot water piping schematic or riser diagram. It is also sometimes identified in the coil schedules.

6.     CHILLER AND BOILER ISOLATION – Identify the specifications for actuated isolation of chiller and boilers in a plant with multiple pieces of equipment and headered pumps per §140.4(k). Note this requirement is inherently met by chillers and boilers with dedicated pumps. This is often shown on the chilled or hot water piping schematic.

7.     CHW AND HHW RESET CONTROLS – Indicate the specification for supply water temperature reset controls per §140.4(k). This will typically be a sequence of operation.

8.     WLHP ISOLATION VALVES – Indicate the specification for water loop heat pump isolation valves to meet the requirements of §140.4(k).

9.     VSD ON CHW & CW PUMPS > 5HP – Indicate the specification for variable speed drives on variable flow systems with greater than five horsepower as indicated in §140.4(k).

10.  DP Sensor LOCATION – Indicate the specification for the placement of the pump pressure sensor to meet the requirements of §140.4(k).

4.11.6  NRCC-MCH-02-E Service Hot Water & Pool Requirements (SWH)

A.   Item or System Tags

At the start of each column identify each service hot water, pool heating, and spa heating system (or groups of similar units) using the system tag(s) from the plans or specifications.

B.   Mandatory Measures

1.   WATER HEATER EFFICIENCY – This is the minimum code-mandated water heating equipment efficiency and standby losses per §110.1, §110.3(b), §110.4(a). Where appropriate both full- and part-load efficiency must be identified. This is typically identified in the equipment schedules.

2.   PILOT LIGHT Restriction – Indicate the specifications for ignition by other than a continuous burning pilot lights as required by §110.5.

3.   INSTALLATION – Per §110.3(c), §110.4(b) indicate the specifications for:

      At least 36 inches of pipe between the filter and the heater to allow for the future addition of solar heating equipment

      A cover for outdoor pools or outdoor spas

      Directional inlets and off-peak demand time switches for pools

      Pools or spas deriving at least 60 percent of the annual heating energy from site solar energy or recovered energy are accepted from the requirement for covers. Where public health standards require on-peak operations, directional inlets and time switches are not required

      PIPE INSULATION – Identify the specifications for pipe insulation greater than or equal to the requirements of §120.3

4.11.7  NRCC-MCH-03-E: Mechanical Ventilation and Reheat    

This form is used to document the design outdoor ventilation rate for each space, and the total amount of outdoor air that will be provided by the space-conditioning or ventilating system. For VAV systems, this form also documents the reduced CFM to which each VAV box must control before allowing reheat.

One copy of this form should be provided for each mechanical system. Additional copies may be required for systems with a large number of spaces or zones. In lieu of this form, the required outdoor ventilation rates and airflows may be shown on the plans or the calculations can be presented in a spreadsheet.

Note that, in all of the calculations that compare a supply quantity to the REQ’D V.A. quantity, the actual percentage of outdoor air in the supply is ignored.

Areas in buildings for which natural ventilation is used should be clearly designated. Specifications must require that building operating instructions include explanations of the natural ventilation system.

A.   Ventilation Calculations

ACTUAL DESIGN INFORMATION:

1.   COLUMN A – ZONE/SYSTEM is the system or zone identifier as shown on the plans.

2.   COLUMN B - DESIGN PRIMARY COOLING AIRFLOW (CFM) the largest amount primary air supplied by the terminal unit when it’s operating in the cooling mode.

3.   COLUMN C - DESIGN PRIMARY DEADBAND AIRFLOW (CFM) smallest amount of primary air supplied by the terminal unit in the deadband mode.

4.   COLUMN D - DESIGN PRIMARY HEATING AIRFLOW (CFM) largest amount of primary air supplied by the terminal unit when it’s operating in heating mode.

5.   COLUMN E - CONTROL TYPE DDC (Y/N) the terminal unit can be controlled with DDC controls, or non-DDC controls.  Each control category has different reheat limitations.

6.   COLUMN F - TRANSER AIRFLOW (CFM) transfer air must be provided where Required Ventilation Airflow (Column M) is greater than the Design Primary Deadband Airflow (Column C).

AREA BASIS:

Outdoor air calculations are documented in COLUMNS G, H and I. If a space is naturally ventilated, it should be noted here and the rest of the calculations (Columns B-I and N) skipped.

1.   COLUMN G – CONDITION AREA (SF) is the area in ft² for the SPACE, ZONE, or SYSTEM identified in COLUMN A.

2.   COLUMN H – CFM PER SF is the minimum allowed outdoor ventilation rate as specified in Standards Table 120.1-A for the type of use 'listed.

3.   COLUMN I – MIN CFM BY AREA is the minimum ventilation rate calculated by multiplying the CONDITION AREA in COLUMN B by the CFM PER SQUARE FEET in COLUMN C.

OCCUPANCY BASIS outdoor air calculations are calculated in COLUMNS J, K and L.

1.   COLUMN J – NUMBER OF PEOPLE is determined using one of the methods described inSection 0..

2.   COLUMN K – CFM PER PERSON is determined using one of the methods described in Section 0. Note this is generally 15 CFM/person.

3.   COLUMN L – MIN CFM BY OCCUPANT is the NUMBER OF PEOPLE multiplied by CFM PER PERSON.

4.   COLUMN M – REQ’D V.A is the larger of the outdoor ventilation rates calculated on an AREA BASIS or OCCUPANCY BASIS (COLUMN I or L).

5.   COLUMN N – This column identifies whether or not the Design Primary Deadband Airflow complies or not.  It compares the value in column M to the value in column C and column F.

REHEAT LIMITATION VAV Reheated Primary Air CFM, in COLUMNS O through Q.

1.   COLUMN O, PERCENTAGE BASED DESIGN PRIMARY COOLING AIR – Design Primary Cooling Airflow * 0.50 for DDC, Design Primary Cooling Airflow * 0.30 for Non-DDC.  If the Design Primary Cooling Airflow is less than 300 cfm, then this is not applicable.

2.   COLUMN P – MAXIMUM REHEAT CFM Maximum of Column M and Column O.  If the Design Primary Cooling Airflow is 300 cfm or less, then this is not applicable. –COLUMN Q – This column identifies whether or not the Design Primary Reheat Airflow at the zone level, complies or not. It compares the value in column P to the value in column D.

DEADBAND LIMITATION VAV Deadband Primary Air CFM, in columns R through T,

1.   COLUMN R - Design Primary Cooling Airflow * 0.20 for DDC.  Not applicable for Non-DDC zones or zones where Design Primary Cooling Airflow is 300 cfm or less.

2.   COLUMN S – Maximum of Column M and Colum R.  Not applicable is the Design Primary Cooling Airlfow is 300 cfm or less.

3.   COLUMN T – This column identifies whether or not the Design Primary Deadband Airflow at the zone level, complies or not.  It compares the value in column S to the value in column C.

4.11.8  NRCC-MCH-07-E: Fan Power Consumption    

A.   Fan Power Consumption

This form is used to document the calculations used in sizing equipment and demonstrating compliance with the fan power requirements when using the prescriptive approach. The PROJECT NAME and DATE should be entered at the top of the form. See §140.4(c).

Note: Provide one copy of this worksheet for each fan system with a total fan system horsepower greater than 25 hp for Constant Volume Fan Systems or Variable Air Volume (VAV) Systems when using the Prescriptive Approach.

This section is used to show how the fans associated with the space-conditioning system complies with the maximum fan power requirements. All supply, return, exhaust, and space exhaust fans – such as toilet exhausts – in the space-conditioning system that operate during the peak design period must be 'listed. Included are supply/return/exhaust fans in packaged equipment. Economizer relief fans that do not operate at peak are excluded. Also excluded are all fans that are manually switched and all fans that are not directly associated with moving conditioned air to/from the space-conditioning system, such as condenser fans and cooling tower fans.

If the total horsepower of all fans in the system is less than 25 hp, then this should be noted in the FAN DESCRIPTION column and the rest of this section left blank. If the total system horsepower is not obvious, such as when a VAV System has many fan-powered boxes, then this section must be completed.

VAV fans and Constant Volume fans should be summarized on separate forms.

      COLUMN A – FAN DESCRIPTION lists the equipment tag or other name associated with each fan.

      COLUMN B – DESIGN BRAKE HORSEPOWER lists the brake horsepower, excluding drive losses, as determined from manufacturer’s data.

For dual-fan, dual-duct systems, the heating fan horsepower may be the (reduced) horsepower at the time of the cooling peak. If unknown, it may be assumed to be 35 percent of design. If this fan will be shut down during the cooling peak, enter 0 in COLUMN B.

If the system has fan-powered VAV boxes, the VAV box power must be included if these fans run during the cooling peak (i.e. series style boxes). The power of all boxes may be summed and 'listed on a single line. If the manufacturer lists power consumption in watts, then the wattage sum may be entered directly in COLUMN F. Horsepower must still be entered in COLUMN B if the designer intends to show that total system has less than 25 hp.

      COLUMNS C & D – EFFICIENCY lists the efficiency of the MOTOR and DRIVE. The default for a direct drive is 1.0; belt drive is 0.97. If a variable-speed or variable-frequency drive is used, the drive efficiency should be multiplied by that device’s efficiency.

      COLUMN E - NUMBER OF FANS lists the number of identical fans included in this line.

      COLUMN F - PEAK WATTS is calculated as:

((BHP x Number of Fans x 746 W/HP) / (Motor Efficiency, Em x Drive Efficiency, Ed) where BHP (COLUMN B) is the design brake horsepower as described above, Em (COLUMN C) and Ed (COLUMN D) are the efficiency of the motor and the drive, respectively.

Totals and Adjustments

      TOTALS FANS SYSTEMS POWER is the sum of all PEAK WATTS from (COLUMN F). Enter sum in provided box at the right.

      SUPPLY DESIGN AIRFLOW (CFM) Enter sum in provided box at the right (under COLUMN F) to identify the design airflow of the system.

      TOTAL FAN SYSTEM POWER INDEX, W/CFM is calculated by dividing the total PEAK WATTS (COLUMN F) by the total CFM. To comply, total space-conditioning system power demands must not exceed 0.8 W/CFM for constant volume systems, or 1.25 W/CFM for VAV systems. See §140.4(c)

If filter pressure drop is greater than 1 inch W. C. Enter filter air pressure drop. SPa on line 4 and total pressure drop across the fan SPf on Line 5, otherwise leave blank and go to Line 7. See §140.4(c)3.

      SPa is the air pressure drop across the air treatment or filtering system.

      SPf is the total pressure drop across the fan.

      FAN ADJUSTMENT is the adjusted fan power index = 1-(SPa – 1)/ SPf.

      ADJUSTED FAN POWER INDEX is the total fan systems power index multiplied with the fan adjustment (Line 3 x Line 6). Note: TOTAL FAN SYSTEM POWER INDEX or ADJUSTED FAN POWER INDEX must not exceed 0.8 W/CFM, for Constant Volume systems or 1.25 W/CFM for VAV systems).

Enter notes to enforcement agency in the Notes column.

4.11.9  NRCC-PLB-01-E: Certification of Compliance – Water Heating System General Information    

 

A. General Information/System Information

1.     Water Heating System Name: Enter a name for the system.  If there is a plumbing plan for the system, the tag name may be given on the plans (e.g. WH-1).

2.     Water Heating System Configuration:  Enter either Single Dwelling Unit or Central.  In the case of multi-family a multi-family building with individual water heaters should be 'listed as single dwelling unit.

3.     Water Heating System Type:  Enter Domestic Hot Water, Combined Hydronic, or Hydronic.

4.     Building Type:  Enter High Rise, Hotel/Motel or Nonresidential

5.     Number of Water Heaters :  Enter the total number of water heaters in the system

6.     Central DHW Distribution Type:    Based on the system being installed, pick from one of the following – Multiple Dwelling Units - Recirculation Temperature Modulation Control; Multiple Dwelling Units - Recirculation Continuous Monitoring Systems;  Multiple Dwelling Units - Demand Recirculation; Other

7.     Dwelling DHW Distribution Type:  Based on the system being installed, pick from one of the following - Standard Distribution System (STD), Pipe Insulation Credit (PIC), Central Parallel Piping (PP), Recirculation non demand controls (R-ND), Demand Recirculation – Manual Control (R-DRmc), Demand Recirculation – Sensor Control (RDRsc)

B. Water Heater Information

1.   Water Heater Type:  Imported  .  Includes Small Storage (Gas, Electric), Large Storage (Gas Electric) Heat Pump Water Heater, Boiler, Instantaneous Large (Gas and Electric) and Instantaneous Small ( Gas and Electric).

2.   Fuel Type:  Imported value, defining if water heater uses gas, propane, or electricity as a fuel type.

3.   Enter the manufacture name:  From installed equipment.

4.   Enter Model Number:  From AHRI database, CEC appliance efficiency database or manufacture product data sheets.

5.   Number of Identical Water Heaters:  From Certificate of Compliance.

6.   Installed Water Heater System Efficiency:  From AHRI database, CEC appliance efficiency database or manufacture product data sheets.

7.   Required Minimum Water Heater System Efficiency:  Based on water heater type use minimal efficiency assigned by Appliance Regulations.

8.   Total Standby or Standby: From AHRI database, CEC appliance efficiency database or manufacture product data sheets.

9.   Rated Input: From AHRI database, CEC appliance efficiency database or manufacture product data sheets

10.  Pilot Energy: From AHRI database, CEC appliance efficiency database or manufacture product data sheets.

11.  Water Heater Tank Storage Tank Volume:  From AHRI database, CEC appliance efficiency database or manufacture product data sheets.

12.  Exterior Insulation on Water Heater: Value from Certificate of Compliance should match label on insulation blanket.

13.  Volume of Supplemental Storage:  Form Certificate of Compliance should match value on tank or manufacturer data.

14.  Internal Insulation on Supplemental Storage:  From Certificate of Compliance should match value on tank or manufacturer data.

15.  External Insulation on Supplemental Storage Tanks:  From Certificate of Compliance should match label on insulation blanket.

4.11.10     NRCI-PLB-01-E: Water Heating System General Information    

 

A. General Information/System Information

1.   Water Heating System Name: Imported from the  CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE form.  If there is a plumbing plan for the system, the tag name may be given on the plans (e.g. WH-1).

2.   Water Heating System Configuration:  Imported from the  CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE.  Choices are Single Dwelling Unit or Central.  In the case of multi-family a multi-family building with individual water heaters should be 'listed as single dwelling unit.

3.   Water Heating System Type:  Imported from the  CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE form 'listed as Domestic Hot Water, Combined Hydronic, or Hydronic.

4.   Building Type:  Enter High Rise, Hotel/Motel or Nonresidential

5.   Number of Water Heaters :  Imported from the  CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE form.

6.   Central DHW Distribution Type:  Imported from the  CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE.

7.   Dwelling DHW Distribution Type:  Imported from the  CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE form.

 

B. Water Heater Information

1.   Water Heater Type:  Imported  .  Includes Small Storage (Gas, Electric), Large Storage (Gas Electric) Heat Pump Water Heater, Boiler, Instantaneous Large (Gas and Electric) and Instantaneous Small ( Gas and Electric).

2.   Fuel Type:  Imported value, defining if water heater uses gas, propane, or electricity as a fuel type.

3.   Enter the manufacture name:  From installed equipment.

4.   Enter Model Number:  From AHRI database, CEC appliance efficiency database or manufacture product data sheets.

5.   Number of Identical Water Heaters:  From Certificate of Compliance.

6.   Installed Water Heater System Efficiency:  From AHRI database, CEC appliance efficiency database or manufacture product data sheets.

7.   Required Minimum Water Heater System Efficiency:  Based on water heater type use minimal efficiency assigned by Appliance Regulations.

8.   Total Standby or Standby: From AHRI database, CEC appliance efficiency database or manufacture product data sheets.

9.   Rated Input: From AHRI database, CEC appliance efficiency database or manufacture product data sheets

10.  Pilot Energy: From AHRI database, CEC appliance efficiency database or manufacture product data sheets.

11.  Water Heater Tank Storage Tank Volume:  From AHRI database, CEC appliance efficiency database or manufacture product data sheets.

12.  Exterior Insulation on Water Heater: Value from Certificate of Compliance should match label on insulation blanket.

13.  Volume of Supplemental Storage:  Form Certificate of Compliance should match value on tank or manufacturer data.

14.  Internal Insulation on Supplemental Storage:  From Certificate of Compliance should match value on tank or manufacturer data.

15.  External Insulation on Supplemental Storage Tanks:  From Certificate of Compliance should match label on insulation blanket.

4.11.11            NRCI-PLB-02-E:  High Rise Residential, Hotel/Motel Single Dwelling Unit Hot Water Systems Distribution

A.   DHW DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

1.   Water Heating System Name:  From Certificate of Compliance

2.   Distribute type:  Based on the system being installed, pick from one of the following - Standard Distribution System (STD), Pipe Insulation Credit (PIC), Central Parallel Piping (PP), Recirculation non demand controls (R-ND), Demand Recirculation – Manual Control (R-DRmc), Demand Recirculation – Sensor Control (RDRsc)

B.   MANDATORY MEASURES FOR ALL DOMESTIC HOT WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS

Ensure all mandatory requirements are met. Based on the type of distribution system that was installed; the following requirements must be met:

C.   (STD)-Standard Distribution System (trunk and branch systems only)

1.   The Standard Distribution System design requires that hot water distribution piping meets the requirements of Proper Installation of Pipe Insulation R4.4.1

D.   (PIC)- Pipe Insulation Credit (For trunk and branch Hot Water system)

1.     All piping in the hot water distribution system must be insulated from the water heater to each fixture or appliance. Insulation shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of Proper Installation of Pipe Insulation R4.4.1.

E.   (R-ND)- Recirculation non demand controls

All recirculation controls with the exception of demand recirculation control systems fall under this category.

More than one circulation loop may be installed. Each loop shall have its own pump and controls.

The active control shall be either: timer, temperature, or time and temperature. Timers shall be set to less than 24 hours. The temperature sensor shall be connected to the piping and to the controls for the pump.

F.   (RDRmc)-Demand Recirculation – Manual Control

Demand controlled recirculation systems shall operate “on-demand”, meaning that pump operation shall be initiated shortly prior to the hot water draw. The controls shall operate on the principal of shutting off the pump with a sensed rise in pipe temperature (Delta-T). For this measure a manual switch is used to activate the pump.

1.   More than one circulation loop may be installed. Each loop shall have its own pump and controls.

2.   Manual controls shall be located in the kitchen, bathrooms, and any hot water use location that is at least 20 feet (measured along the hot water piping) from the water heater.

3.   Manual controlled systems may be activated by wired or wireless mechanisms, Manual controls shall have standby power of 1 watt or less.

4.   Pump and demand control placement meets one of the following criteria.

      When a dedicated return line has been installed the pump, demand controls and thermo-sensor are installed at the end of the supply portion of the recirculation loop (typically under a sink); or

      The pump and demand controls are installed on the return line near the water heater and the thermo sensor is installed in an accessible location as close to the end of the supply portion of the recirculation loop as possible (typically under a sink), or

      When the cold water line is used as the return, the pump, demand controls and thermo-sensor is installed in an accessible location at the end of supply portion of the hot water distribution line (typically under a sink).

5.   Insulation is not required on the cold water line when it is used as the return.

6.   Demand controls shall be able to shut off the pump in accordance with these three methods:

      After the pump has been activated, the controls shall allow the pump to operate until the water temperature at the thermo-sensor rises not more than 10ºF ( 5.6 ºC ) above the initial temperature of the water in the pipe, or

      The controls shall not allow the pump to operate when the temperature in the pipe exceeds 102ºF (38.9 ºC).

The controls shall limit pump operation to a maximum of 5 minutes following any activation. This is provided in the event that the normal means of shutting off the pump have failed.

G.   (RDRsc)-Demand Recirculation – Sensor Control

Demand controlled recirculation systems shall operate “on-demand”, meaning that pump operation shall be initiated shortly prior to the hot water draw. The controls shall operate on the principal of shutting off the pump with a sensed rise in pipe temperature (Delta-T). For this measure a sensor control is used to activate the pump rather than a manual control.

1.   More than one circulation loop may be installed. Each loop shall have its own pump and controls.

2.   Sensor controls shall be located in the kitchen, bathrooms, and any hot water use location that is at least 20 feet (measured along the hot water piping) from the water heater.

3.   Sensor controlled systems may be activated by wired or wireless mechanisms, including motion sensors, door switches and flow switches. Sensors controls shall have standby power of 1 watt or less.

4.   Pump and demand control placement meets one of the following criteria.

      When a dedicated return line has been installed the pump, demand controls and thermo-sensor are installed at the end of the supply portion of the recirculation loop (typically under a sink); or

      The pump and demand controls are installed on the return line near the water heater and the thermosensor is installed in an accessible location as close to the end of the supply portion of the recirculation loop as possible (typically under a sink),

      When the cold water line is used as the return, the pump, demand controls and thermo-sensor is installed in an accessible location at the end of supply portion of the hot water distribution line (typically under a sink).

5.   Insulation is not required on the cold water line when it is used as the return.

6.   Demand controls shall be able to shut off the pump in accordance with these three methods:

      After the pump has been activated, the controls shall allow the pump to operate until the water temperature at the thermo-sensor rises not more than 10ºF ( 5.6 ºC ) above the initial temperature of the water in the pipe, or

      The controls shall not allow the pump to operate when the temperature in the pipe exceeds 102ºF (38.9 ºC).

      The controls shall limit pump operation to a maximum of 5 minutes following any activation. This is provided in the event that the normal means of shutting off the pump have failed.

4.11.12            NRCI-PLB-03-E:  High Rise Residential, Hotel/Motel Central Hot Water Systems Distribution    

 

A. DHW DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM Water Heating System Name:  From Certificate of Compliance Distribution type: 

Based on the system being installed, pick from one of the following:

Multiple Dwelling Units: Recirculation Temperature Modulation Control; Multiple Dwelling Units; Recirculation Continuous Monitoring Systems; Multiple Dwelling Units: Demand Recirculation; Other

B.   MANDATORY MEASURES FOR ALL DOMESTIC HOT WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS

Ensure all mandatory requirements are met. Based on the type of distribution system that was installed; the following requirements must be met:

1.   Multiple Dwelling Units: Recirculation Temperature Modulation Control

A recirculation temperature modulation control shall reduce the hot water supply temperature when hot water demand is determined to be low by the control system. The control system may use a fixed control schedule or dynamic control schedules based measurements of hot water demand. The daily hot water supply temperature reduction, which is defined as the sum of temperature reduction by the control in each hour within a 24-hour period, shall be more than 50 degrees Fahrenheit to qualify for the energy savings credit. Qualifying equipment shall be 'listed with the Commission.

Recirculation systems shall also meet the requirements of §110.3.

2.   Multiple Dwelling Units: Recirculation Continuous Monitoring Systems

Systems that qualify as a recirculation continuous monitoring systems for domestic hot water systems serving multiple dwelling units shall record no less frequently than hourly measurements of key system operation parameters, including hot water supply temperatures, hot water return temperatures, and status of gas valve relays of water heating equipment. The continuous monitoring system shall automatically alert building operators of abnormalities identified from monitoring results. Qualifying equipment or services shall be 'listed with the Commission.

Recirculation systems shall also meet the requirements of §110.3.

3.   Multiple Dwelling Units: Demand Recirculation

Demand controlled recirculation systems shall operate “on-demand”, meaning that pump operation shall be initiated shortly prior to, or by a hot water draw. The controls shall operate on the principal of shutting off the pump with a sensed rise in pipe temperature (Delta-T). For this measure sensor or manual controls may be used to activate the pump(s).

Manual or sensor shall be installed and if powered, has standby power of 1 watt or less. Controls may be located in individual units or on the loop. Controls may be activated by wired or wireless mechanisms, including buttons, motion sensors, door switches and flow switches.

4.   Pump and control placement shall meet one of the following criteria:

a.   When a dedicated return line has been installed the pump, controls and thermo-sensor are installed at the end of the supply portion of the recirculation loop; or

b.   The pump and controls are installed on the dedicated return line near the water heater and the thermo-sensor is installed in an accessible location as close to the end of the supply portion of the recirculation loop as possible, or

c.   When the cold water line is used as the return, the pump, demand controls and thermosensor shall be installed in an accessible location at the end of supply portion of the hot water distribution line (typically under a sink). Insulation is not required on the cold water line when it is used as the return.

5.   Demand controls shall be able to shut off the pump in accordance with these three methods:

a.   After the pump has been activated, the controls shall allow the pump to operate until the water temperature at the thermo-sensor rises not more than 10ºF ( 5.6 ºC ) above the initial temperature of the water in the pipe, or

b.   The controls shall not allow the pump to operate when the temperature in the pipe exceeds 102ºF (38.9 ºC).

c.   The controls shall limit pump operation to a maximum of 10 minutes following any activation.  This is provided in the event that the normal means of shutting off the pump have failed.

Recirculation systems shall also meet the requirements of §110.3.

C.   Other

This is for system that does not fit into any of the above category.  All mandatory measures must still be met.

4.11.13            NRCI-PLB-04-E:  Nonresidential Single Dwelling Unit Hot Water Systems Distribution

A.   DHW DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

1.   Water Heating System Name:  From Certificate of Compliance

B.   MANDATORY MEASURES FOR ALL DOMESTIC HOT WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS

1.   Ensure all mandatory requirements are met.

4.11.14            NRCI-PLB-05-E:  Nonresidential Central Hot Water Systems Distribution Water Heating System    

A.   DHW DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

1.   Water Heating System Name:  From Certificate of Compliance

B.   MANDATORY MEASURES FOR ALL DOMESTIC HOT WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS

1.   Ensure all mandatory requirements are met.

4.11.15            Mechanical Inspection

The mechanical building inspection process for energy compliance is carried out along with the other building inspections performed by the enforcement agency. The inspector relies upon the plans and upon the NRCC-MCH-01-E Certificate of Compliance form printed on the plans (See Section 4.11.2).

4.11.16            Acceptance Requirements

Acceptance requirements can effectively improve code compliance and help determine whether mechanical equipment meets operational goals and whether it should be adjusted to increase efficiency and effectiveness.

Acceptance tests are described in detail in Chapter 13

A.   Process

The process for meeting the acceptance requirements includes:

1.   Document plans showing thermostat and sensor locations, control devices, control sequences and notes,

2.   Review the installation, perform acceptance tests and document results, and

3.   Document the operating and maintenance information, complete installation certificate and indicate test results on the Certificate of Acceptance, and submit the Certificate to the enforcement agency prior to receiving a final occupancy permit.

B.   Administration

The administrative requirements contained in the Standards require the mechanical plans and specifications to contain:

 

1.   Requirements for acceptance testing for mechanical systems and equipment shown in Table 4-2.

Table 4-2– Mechanical Acceptance Tests

Variable Air Volume Systems

Constant Volume Systems

Package Systems

Air Distribution Systems

Economizers

Demand Control Ventilation Systems

Ventilation Systems

Variable Frequency Drive Fan Systems

Hydronic Control Systems

Hydronic Pump Isolation Controls and Devices

Supply Water Reset Controls

Water Loop Heat Pump Control

Variable Frequency Drive Pump Systems

 

2.   Requirement that within 90 days of receiving a final occupancy permit, record drawings be provided to the building owners,

3.   Requirement that operating and maintenance information be provided to the building owner, and

4.   Requirement for the issuance of installation certificates for mechanical equipment.

For example, the plans and specifications would require an economizer. A construction inspection would verify the economizer is installed and properly wired. Acceptance tests would verify economizer operation and that the relief air system is properly functioning. Owners’ manuals and maintenance information would be prepared for delivery to the building owner. Finally, record drawing information, including economizer controller set points, must be submitted to the building owner within 90 days of the issuance of a final occupancy permit.

C.   Plan Review

Although acceptance testing does not require that the construction team perform any plan review, they should review the construction drawings and specifications to understand the scope of the acceptance tests and raise critical issues that might affect the success of the acceptance tests prior to starting construction. Any construction issues associated with the mechanical system should be forwarded to the design team so that necessary modifications can be made prior to equipment procurement and installation.

D.   Testing

The construction inspection is the first step in performing the acceptance tests. In general, this inspection should identify:

1.   Mechanical equipment and devices are properly located, identified, calibrated and set points and schedules established.

2.   Documentation is available to identify settings and programs for each device, and

3.   For air distribution systems, this may include select tests to verify acceptable leakage rates while access is available.

Testing is to be performed on the following devices:

      Variable air volume systems

      Constant volume systems

      Package systems

      Air distribution systems

      Economizers

      Demand control ventilation systems

      Variable frequency drive fan systems

      Hydronic control systems

      Hydronic pump isolation controls and devices

      Supply water reset controls

      Water loop heat pump control

      Variable frequency drive pump systems

      System programming

      Time clocks

Chapter 13 contains information on how to complete the acceptance forms. Example test procedures are also available in Chapter 13.

E.   Roles and Responsibilities

The installing contractor, engineer of record or owners agent shall be responsible for documenting the results of the acceptance test requirement procedures including paper and electronic copies of all measurement and monitoring results. They shall be responsible for performing data analysis, calculation of performance indices and crosschecking results with the requirements of the Standards. They shall be responsible for issuing a Certificate of Acceptance. Enforcement agencies shall not release a final Certificate of Occupancy until a Certificate of Acceptance is submitted that demonstrates that the specified systems and equipment have been shown to be performing in accordance with the Standards. The installing contractor, engineer of record or owners agent upon completion of undertaking all required acceptance requirement procedures shall record their State of California Contractor’s License number or their State of California Professional Registration License Number on each Certificate of Acceptance that they issue.

F.   Contract Changes

The acceptance testing process may require the design team to be involved in project construction inspection and testing. Although acceptance test procedures do not require that a contractor be involved with a constructability review during design-phase, this task may be included on individual projects per the owner’s request. Therefore, design professionals and contractors should review the contract provided by the owner to make sure it covers the scope of the acceptance testing procedures as well as any additional tasks.