Professional development programs

Principles of Sustainable HVAC Systems

Many factors influence the design and selection of sustainable HVAC systems and equipment. Considerations include important issues such as the client/owner brief, user requirements, regulations, environment, design criteria, spatial factors, operation, maintenance, economic criteria, and architecture.

This module will deal with the principles of sustainable HVAC systems while relying on other modules for code, standards and rating scheme compliance; design process; methods and tools; and operational sustainability and energy-efficiency.

Understanding sustainability means better design criteria, system selection, and operational efficiency. How the system functions for all modes, loads, and environments and the consideration of ease of operation, adaptability, and maintenance are all essential to long-term operational sustainability.

To deliver a successful sustainable project, it is essential to incorporate all stakeholders into the design process. Architecture can play a significant role in the ability of the HVAC system to provide sustainable outcomes, and an integrated design process is vital in achieving this.

Information, new equipment, design tools, and many competing factors will lead to various energy-efficient solutions that are applicable to various projects. Energy-efficient designers should continue to consider new designs and challenge existing designs for applicability and improvement.

Topic 1 - Sustainability impacts of HVAC

Identifying the key elements of HVAC systems that impact sustainability.

Topic 2 - Sustainable design responsibilities

Exploring the way law, ethics, and environment impact on HVAC design; how stakeholders can identify sustainable design opportunities; and methods to manage sustainable outcomes.

Topic 3 - Building design parameters

Looking at factors that may impact sustainable design – including building elements, building use specialist requirements, and services design considerations. We also look at some considerations when selecting equipment and systems.

Topic 4 - Principles of sustainability into design

Reviewing, in detail, a number of design options and explaining life-cycle and system cost analysis to present an option-analysis method to assist in system selection.

Learning outcomes

At the completion of this module, participants should have the confidence to consider, and be able to incorporate, the principles of sustainable HVAC system design for buildings.

Specific learning outcomes covered in this module:

• Factors impacting sustainability are analysed to inform system design decisions. 
• Legal, ethical, and environmental issues impacting HVAC systems are considered to inform design decisions. 
• Needs of stakeholders are evaluated to identify new opportunities for increasing sustainability and energy-efficiency in HVAC systems.
• Elements of building design and building services are analysed to determine their impact on system design and efficiency. 
• Building use is analysed to determine specialist HVAC system requirements.
• Equipment/systems are analysed to determine energy-efficiency and functionality. 
• Energy-saving options are reviewed to determine their benefits, costs, and risks for the proposed system. 
• Life-cycle analysis techniques are analysed to determine whole-of-life system costs. 
• Options are analysed to assist selection of equipment and systems.
• Strategies are assessed to effectively manage HVAC WHS issues.

Program fees (inc. GST)

Your program fees include access to the online classroom environment and all online topic resources.

Registration

Online registration is available for the for the AIRAH accredited Professional Diploma in Sustainable HVAC Design and Operation and individual modules within.

Alternatively, please complete the registration form and return it to [email protected].