TESTING AND BALANCING IN HEALTHCARE FACILITIES

What is Test & BalanceThe art of establishing air and water flows to meet design criteria.

Total System Balance:The process of testing and balancing the heating,

ventilating and air conditioning systems and sub systems to perform at the design intent and operate at an optimum level. Total System Balancing includes review of the design documents balancability, construction observation, and a methodical approach to test and balance all systems

to their optimal performance with verifiable test results.

Why is Test & Balance Necessary

To ensure systems are installed and perform as intended by the design team.

To document any field conditions not installed or performing or installed within design parameter.

Make recommendations to optimize system performance as it relates to energy consumption, tenant comfort and infectious control.

Test & Balance in Healthcare Facilities Establishing air and water flows to meet design criteria.

Total System Balance (final):• Determine jurisdictional code requirements.

• Verify minimum outside air performance at all air handling systems in the project scope.

• Verify and document relative room pressures in the project space as well as effected areas.

• Verify and document all room air change rates.

• Verify and document unoccupied mode (if applicable).

• Trend temperature and humidity performance (if required).

Test & Balance in Healthcare Facilities

Pre Design Survey

Establish existing conditions to allow achievable design.• Fan Performance• Controls• Air Flow at terminal units, grilles and diffusers• Duct routing (and sizing)• Cleanliness (maintenance and operation issues)

Test & Balance in Healthcare Facilities

Pre Construction Pre Balance

Measure and document ventilation rates, relative pressures and control system performance in project areas as well as adjacent areas.

Verify minimum outside air performance on associated air handling systems.

Attain necessary data to ensure temporary and final ventilation requirements can be achieved, both mechanically and architecturally.

Test & Balance in Healthcare Facilities

Interim Balance

Review and assist construction team in implementing containment requirements.

Verify conditions in the construction have been modified as required.

Ensure existing, remaining ventilation in adjacent spaces is not disrupted. Implement the required balance steps necessary.

Test & Balance in Healthcare Facilities

Final Balance

Adjust fan systems as required to attain new design goals. Balance project space to required ventilation rates, air change

rates and space pressure requirements. Perform temperature performance and control verification on all

new and existing devices. Verify minimum outside air performance on associated air

handling systems. Verify / adjust adjacent areas to pre and interim balance

conditions. Test and document proper performance of duct smoke detectors. Provide Test and Balance report in a timely manner. Assist Cx agency in completing functional performance testing.

Test & Balance in Healthcare Facilities

The Successful Project

Deliver and document conditions meeting the design team’s and regulating agency’s requirements without delaying owner occupancy.