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

Which of the following is NOT considered an optional system for sub-metering?

1. Boilers

2. Irrigation systems

3. Heating systems

4. Indoor plumbing fixtures

The correct answer is: Heating systems

Sub-metering is an important strategy for monitoring and managing resource use within a building. It involves the installation of meters to track the consumption of water, energy, or other resources across different systems or areas. Optional sub-metering systems can vary based on specific building needs and the goals of the project regarding energy efficiency and water conservation. The correct answer is identified as heating systems, which are typically part of a building's core systems and are essential for maintaining comfort and functionality. While sub-metering can be beneficial for tracking the energy use of heating systems, it is not always categorized as an optional system because understanding the performance and efficiency of heating is critical for achieving energy goals and supporting sustainability initiatives. In contrast, other options like boilers, irrigation systems, and indoor plumbing fixtures are often considered optional sub-metering systems. This means building managers or owners can choose whether to implement sub-metering for these systems based on specific project objectives, including water conservation, operational efficiency, or monitoring usage patterns. Therefore, heating systems stand out as a more integral component of the building's operational structure, making them less likely to be categorized as optional.