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

Which of the following is one of the options for enhanced refrigerant management?

1. Use of high-impact refrigerants

2. No refrigerants or low-impact refrigerants

3. Regular refrigerant management audits

4. Calculation of refrigerant types used

The correct answer is: No refrigerants or low-impact refrigerants

One of the key options for enhanced refrigerant management is the use of no refrigerants or low-impact refrigerants. This approach significantly reduces the environmental impact associated with refrigerants, particularly those that are potent greenhouse gases. By opting for systems that either eliminate the need for refrigerants entirely or utilize low-impact options, such as natural refrigerants, the potential for ozone depletion and global warming can be minimized. This method aligns with LEED's goals of promoting sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint of buildings. Avoiding or reducing refrigerant use directly contributes to energy efficiency and helps achieve a higher performance rating under the LEED certification process, particularly in the context of the Energy and Atmosphere credit category. Choosing high-impact refrigerants, conducting regular audits, or merely calculating refrigerant types, while they may have their own benefits in certain contexts, do not directly address the critical aspect of reducing the reliance on harmful or high-impact refrigerant systems. Thus, the focus on low-impact or no refrigerants is a proactive strategy in enhanced refrigerant management.