LEED AP Building Design and Construction (BD+C) Practice Exam

Which component is included in the ASHRAE 90.1 criteria for energy-efficient design?

1. Transportation access

2. Water efficient landscaping

3. HVAC systems

4. Interior design

The correct answer is: HVAC systems

The ASHRAE 90.1 standard provides guidelines and requirements for energy-efficient building design and includes a wide range of components. Among these, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems play a critical role in a building’s overall energy consumption and efficiency. ASHRAE 90.1 includes specific requirements related to the design and performance of HVAC systems to ensure they operate efficiently, thereby reducing energy usage and improving comfort levels for occupants. With these regulations in place, designers and engineers are encouraged to select high-efficiency equipment, optimize system design, and implement controls that can lead to significant reductions in energy consumption. This focus on HVAC systems is essential, as they are one of the largest contributors to energy use in commercial buildings. Other options, while relevant to sustainability and overall building performance, do not fall under the specific regulations of ASHRAE 90.1 in terms of energy efficiency design criteria. For example, transportation access and water-efficient landscaping relate more to site and water management strategies rather than direct energy consumption. Meanwhile, interior design addresses aesthetics and functionality rather than energy performance metrics.