[Bldg-sim] LEED and infiltration

[Brian A. Turner]

All,

I am working on the design of a project which includes specification of an air barrier in the building envelope and post-construction testing to confirm its performance.  I would like to take credit for this in my energy modeling calculations for LEED EAc1.  I have seen previous discussions on this mailing list about the lack of a baseline number for air leakage in ASHRAE 90.1 Appendix G being an issue.  I am also aware of the fact that performing a precise simulation of infiltration for a building would be complex and take into account wind pressures/directions, building pressurization, massing, etc. etc.  However, page 36 of the Advanced Energy Modeling for LEED Technical Manual appears to reference a scenario in which credit can be taken for reduced infiltration, and there are CIRs that state that such credit can be taken if proper documentation is supplied.  My question is:  has anyone received a favorable review of an energy model that claimed savings due to reduced infiltration as part of LEED project documentation?  If so, what methodology/baseline data was employed?  Any insights would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance,

Brian A. Turner P.E., CEM, LEED AP BD+C
Mechanical Engineer

CLARK NEXSEN
Architecture & Engineering
6160 Kempsville Circle Suite 200A
Norfolk, VA 23502
757.961.7991 Tel.
757.455.5638 Fax
bturner at clarknexsen.com
www.clarknexsen.com