CS 2009 EAp3: Fundamental Refrigerant Management

  • NC_CS_Schools_EAp3_Type3_FundimentalRefrigerant Diagram

  • Eliminate CFC-based refrigerants

    This prerequisite focuses on the elimination of CFC-based refrigerants that contribute to ozone depletion in HVAC&R equipment. Although fire suppression systems are covered by EAc4, you're not required to consider them for this prerequisite. Doing so in conjunction with EAc4 is a good idea, however.

    The credit covers all space-conditioning and refrigeration systems included in the LEED scope of work, including chillers; unitary HVAC equipment (split and packaged); room and window air-conditioners; computer, data center, and telecom room-cooling units; and commercial refrigeration equipment. The prerequisite does not, however, apply to small units and other types of equipment, such as refrigerators and small water coolers that contain less than 0.5 pounds...

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5 Comments

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John Chyz Commissioning Authority The Cross Creek Initiative, Inc.
Dec 03 2010
Guest
63 Thumbs Up

R-22

Is R-22 compliant with the requirements of EAp3?

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Scott DeGaro Sustainability Administrator, Barge Waggoner Sumner & Cannon, Inc. Dec 03 2010 Guest 214 Thumbs Up

HCFC-22 is compliant with the prerequisite. However, as of January 1, 2010 manufacturers were no longer allowed to produce equipment containing HCFC-22. That doesn't mean they can't (and don't) still manufacture equipment that operates on R-22, but is uncharged when it's delivered to the site.

Are you wondering from a new equipment purchase or an existing system?

This EPA site has some good timeline information: http://www.epa.gov/ozone/title6/phaseout/22phaseout.html

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John Chyz Commissioning Authority, The Cross Creek Initiative, Inc. Dec 05 2010 Guest 63 Thumbs Up

Thank you for the rapid response. We are constructing a new core and shell on healthcare campus that is served by an existing chiller plant. USGBC district energy guidelines stipulate that all chillers must meet EAp3 requirements. 2 chillers currently use 134a, 2 use R-22 and one uses HCFC 123. It is my understanding that HCFC 123 is not compliant and will require a phase out plan - is this corrrect? Also, can we simply demonstrate that the compliant chillers serve our building exclusively or do we need to ensure that the entire plant meets EAp3 requirements? Thank you for you input.

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Scott DeGaro Sustainability Administrator, Barge Waggoner Sumner & Cannon, Inc. Dec 06 2010 Guest 214 Thumbs Up

EAp3 only excludes the use of CFC-based refrigerants. R-22 (HCFC), R-123 (HCFC) and R-134a (HFC) are all compliant with the prerequisite, because they are all non-CFC based refrigerants. Therefore you don’t need to worry about a phase-out plan.

Where you may run into an issue is if you’re also pursuing EAc4 – Enhanced Refrigerant Management. R-22 has the highest Global Warming Potential (GWP) and Ozone Depleting Potential (ODP) of those 3 refrigerants and you’re total impact per ton may exceed the allowable limit.

I hope that helps.

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John Chyz Commissioning Authority, The Cross Creek Initiative, Inc. Dec 06 2010 Guest 63 Thumbs Up

Very helpful!

Thank you.

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