Functional performance tests shall demonstrate the correct installation and operation of each component, system, and system-to-system interface in accordance with the acceptance test requirements. Functional performance testing reports shall contain information addressing each of the building components tested, the testing methods utilized, and include any readings and adjustments made.
Develop and implement the functional performance tests to document (as set forth in the Commissioning Plan) that all components, equipment, systems, and system-to-system interfaces were installed as specified, and operate according to the OPR, BOD, and plans and specifications.
The following systems to be functionally tested are listed in the BOD:
1. HVAC systems and controls.
2. Indoor lighting system and controls.
3. Water heating system and controls.
4. Building Envelope Components.
Acceptance testing requirements call for functional testing of some systems and equipment. Refer to Chapter 13, Acceptance Requirements, in this manual for further guidance.
Although functional performance testing for commissioning under §120.8 is related to acceptance testing, the systems to be functionally tested are based upon systems described in the BOD. Not all of the systems described in the BOD will have acceptance testing requirements per the Energy Standards. Conversely, there may be systems listed in the BOD which do have acceptance testing requirements, such as lighting controls. To meet the acceptance testing requirements, acceptance tests must be performed by a certified Acceptance Test Technician as described in Chapter 13.
Compliance is demonstrated by developing and implementing test procedures for each piece of commissioned equipment and interfaces between equipment and systems according to the building-specific Commissioning Plan. Tests should include verification of proper operation of all equipment features, each part of the sequence of operation, overrides, lockouts, safeties, alarms, occupied and unoccupied modes, loss of normal power, exercising a shutdown, startup, low load through full load (as much as possible) and back, staging and standby functions, scheduling, energy efficiency strategies and loop tuning. Acceptance Requirements, discussed in Chapter 13, are required and will contribute toward compliance with §120.8(g), but do not cover all necessary testing.
Elements of acceptable test procedures include:
1. Date and Party – Identification of the date of the test and the party conducting the test.
2. Signature Block – Signature of the designated commissioning lead and the equipment installing contractor attesting that the recorded test results are accurate.
3. Prerequisites – Any conditions or related equipment checkout or testing that needs to be completed before conducting this test.
4. Precautions – Identification of the risks involved to the test team members and the equipment and how to mitigate them.
5. Instrumentation – Listing of the instrumentation and tools necessary to complete the test.
6. Reference – In each procedure item, identify the source for what is being confirmed (e.g., sequence of operation ID, operating feature, specification requirement, etc.).
7. Test Instructions – Step-by-step instructions of how to complete the test, including functions to test and the conditions under which the tests should performed.
8. Acceptance Criteria – Measurable pass / fail criteria for each step of the test, as applicable.
9. Results – Expected system response and space to document the actual response, readings, results and adjustments.
10. Return to Normal – Instructions that all systems and equipment are to be returned to their as-found state at the conclusion of the tests.
11. Deficiencies – A list of deficiencies and how they were mitigated.
At their discretion, the building official confirms demonstrated compliance during Field Inspection by either:
1. Receipt of a copy of the completed and signed Functional Performance Tests that indicate any deficiencies have been corrected (optional).
2. Review of acceptance certificates (NRCA’s) attesting that the Functional Performance Tests have been completed and any deficiencies corrected. Although there are no field forms for commissioning requirements, authorities having jurisdiction can review issues logs or the certificates of acceptance to verify field testing was completed and issues resolved.