WSR 17-10-062
PERMANENT RULES
BUILDING CODE COUNCIL
[Filed May 2, 2017, 1:56 p.m., effective June 2, 2017]
Effective Date of Rule: Thirty-one days after filing.
Purpose: Makes changes to the commercial energy portion of the Washington State Energy Code for clarity, along with some editorial changes. Includes Sections C202.12, the definition for Low voltage dry-type distribution transformer; C402.1.5.1, Component U-factors; Table C403.2.3(1A), Minimum efficiency standards for electrically operated unitary air conditioners and condensing units; Table C403.2.3(8), Minimum efficiency standards for heat rejection equipment; C403.2.11.5, Fan airflow control; C403.4.3.1, Fan speed control; C403.4.6, Hot gas bypass limitation; C403.7, High efficiency VAV systems (Item 14); C405.6, Electrical transformers.
Citation of Existing Rules Affected by this Order: Amending WAC 51-11C-20212, 51-11C-40215, 51-11C-403231, 51-11C-403238, 51-11C-403291, 51-11C-40344, 51-11C-40347, 51-11C-40360, and 51-11C-40507.
Statutory Authority for Adoption: RCW 19.27A.025, 19.27A.045, 19.27A.160.
Other Authority: RCW 19.27.074.
Adopted under notice filed as WSR 17-04-086 on January 31, 2017.
Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Comply with Federal Statute: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; Federal Rules or Standards: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Recently Enacted State Statutes: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted at Request of a Nongovernmental Entity: New 0, Amended 25, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted on the Agency's Own Initiative: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Clarify, Streamline, or Reform Agency Procedures: New 0, Amended 9, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted Using Negotiated Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; Pilot Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Other Alternative Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Date Adopted: April 21, 2017.
Steve K. Simpson
Council Chair
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 16-24-070, filed 12/6/16, effective 5/1/17)
WAC 51-11C-20212 Section C202.12—L.
LABELED. Equipment, materials or products to which have been affixed a label, seal, symbol or other identifying mark of a nationally recognized testing laboratory, inspection agency or other organization concerned with product evaluation that maintains periodic inspection of the production of the above-labeled items and whose labeling indicates either that the equipment, material or product meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for a specified purpose.
LINER SYSTEM (LS). A system that includes the following:
1. A continuous vapor barrier liner membrane that is installed below the purlins and that is uninterrupted by framing members.
2. An uncompressed, unfaced insulation resting on top of the liner membrane and located between the purlins.
For multilayer installations, the last rated R-value of insulation is for unfaced insulation draped over purlins and then compressed when the metal roof panels are attached.
LISTED. Equipment, materials, products or services included in a list published by an organization acceptable to the code official and concerned with evaluation of products or services that maintains periodic inspection of production of listed equipment or materials or periodic evaluation of services and whose listing states either that the equipment, material, product or service meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for a specified purpose.
LOW-SLOPED ROOF. A roof having a slope less than 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal.
LOW-VOLTAGE DRY-TYPE DISTRIBUTION TRANSFORMER. A transformer that is air-cooled, does not use oil as a coolant, has an input voltage less than or equal to 600 volts and is rated for operation at a frequency of 60 hertz.
LOW-VOLTAGE LIGHTING. A lighting system consisting of an isolating power supply, the low voltage luminaires, and associated equipment that are all identified for the use. The output circuits of the power supply operate at 30 volts (42.4 volts peak) or less under all load conditions.
LUMINAIRE. A complete lighting unit consisting of a lamp or lamps together with the housing designed to distribute the light, position and protect the lamps, and connect the lamps to the power supply.
LUMINAIRE-LEVEL LIGHTING CONTROL. A lighting system consisting of one or more luminaire(s) each with embedded lighting control logic, occupancy and ambient light sensors, local or central wireless networking capabilities, and local override switching capability.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 16-24-070, filed 12/6/16, effective 5/1/17)
WAC 51-11C-40215 Section C402.1.5—Component performance alternative.
C402.1.5 Component performance alternative. Building envelope values and fenestration areas determined in accordance with Equation 4-2 shall be permitted in lieu of compliance with the U-factors and F-factors in Table C402.1.4 and C402.4 and the maximum allowable fenestration areas in Section C402.4.1.
Equation 4-2
A + B + C + D = ≤ Zero
Where:
A =
Sum of the (UA Dif) values for each distinct assembly type of the building thermal envelope, other than slabs on grade
 
UA Dif
=
UA Proposed – UA Table
 
UA Proposed
=
Proposed U-value x Area
 
UA Table
=
(U-factor from Table C402.1.4 or C402.4) x Area
B =
Sum of the (FL Dif) values for each distinct slab on grade perimeter condition of the building thermal envelope
 
FL Dif
=
FL Proposed – FL Table
 
FL Proposed
=
Proposed F-value x Perimeter length
 
FL Table
=
(F-factor specified in Table C402.1.4) x Perimeter length
The maximum allowed prescriptive vertical fenestration area, identified as "Vertical Fenestration Area allowed" in factor CA below, as a percent of the gross above-grade wall area ratio is either:
 
1.
30%
 
2.
40% if the building complies with Section C402.4.1.1 or Section C402.1.4.1; or
 
3.
40% if the U-values used in calculating A for vertical fenestration are taken from Section C402.4.1.3 rather than Table C402.4
Where the proposed vertical fenestration area is less than or equal to the maximum allowed prescriptive vertical fenestration area, the value of C (Excess Vertical Glazing Value) shall be zero. Otherwise:
C =
(CA x UV) – (CA x UWall), but not less than zero
 
CA
=
(Proposed Vertical Fenestration Area) – (Vertical Fenestration Area allowed)
 
UA Wall
=
Sum of the (UA Proposed) values for each opaque assembly of the exterior wall
 
UAW
=
Sum of the (UA proposed) values for each above-grade wall assembly
 
UWall
=
UAW/sum of wall area (excludes vertical fenestration area)
 
UAV
=
Sum of the (UA Proposed) values for each vertical fenestration assembly
 
UV
=
UAV/total vertical fenestration area
Where the proposed skylight area is less than or equal to the skylight area allowed by Section C402.4.1, the value of D (Excess Skylight Value) shall be zero. Otherwise:
D =
(DA x US) – (DA x URoof), but not less than zero
 
DA
=
(Proposed Skylight Area) – (Allowable Skylight Area from Section C402.4.1)
 
UAR
=
Sum of the (UA Proposed) values for each roof assembly
 
URoof
=
UAR/sum of roof area (excludes skylight area)
 
UAS
=
Sum of the (UA Proposed) values for each skylight assembly
 
US
=
UAS/total skylight area
C402.1.5.1 Component U-factors. The U-factors for typical construction assemblies are included in Chapter 3 and Appendix A. These values shall be used for all calculations. Where proposed construction assemblies are not represented in Chapter 3 or Appendix A, values shall be calculated in accordance with the ASHRAE Handbook—Fundamentals, using the framing factors listed in Appendix A.
For envelope assemblies containing metal framing, the U-factor shall be determined by one of the following methods:
1. Results of laboratory measurements according to acceptable methods of test.
2. ASHRAE Handbook—Fundamentals where the metal framing is bonded on one or both sides to a metal skin or covering.
3. The zone method as provided in ASHRAE Handbook—Fundamentals.
4. Effective framing/cavity R-values as provided in Appendix A.
When return air ceiling plenums are employed, the roof/ceiling assembly shall:
a. For thermal transmittance purposes, not include the ceiling proper nor the plenum space as part of the assembly; and
b. For gross area purposes, be based upon the interior face of the upper plenum surface.
5. Tables in ASHRAE ((90.1-2010)) 90.1 Normative Appendix A.
C402.1.5.2 SHGC rate calculations. Solar heat gain coefficient shall comply with Table C402.4. The target SHGCAt and the proposed SHGCAp shall be calculated using Equations 4-3 and 4-4 and the corresponding areas and SHGCs from Table C402.4.
Equation 4-3—Target SHGCAt
Equation C402-3
Target SHGCAt
SHGCAt
 
SHGCogt(Aogt) + SHGCvgt (Avgt + Avgmt + Avgmot + Avgdt)
Where:
SHGCAt
=
The target combined solar heat gain of the target fenestration area.
SHGCogt
=
The solar heat gain coefficient for skylight fenestration found in Table C402.4.
Aogt
=
The proposed skylight area.
SHGCvgt
=
The solar heat gain coefficient for vertical fenestration found in Table C402.4 which corresponds to the proposed total fenestration area as a percentage of gross exterior wall.
Avgt
=
The proposed vertical fenestration area with nonmetal framing.
Avgmt
=
The proposed vertical fenestration area with fixed metal framing.
Avgmot
=
The proposed vertical fenestration area with operable metal framing.
Avgdt
=
The proposed vertical fenestration area of entrance doors.
NOTE:
The vertical fenestration area does not include opaque doors and opaque spandrel panels.
Equation 4-4
Proposed SHGCAp
SHGCAp
=
SHGCogAog + SHGCvgAvg
Where:
SHGCAt
=
The combined proposed solar heat gain of the proposed fenestration area.
SHGCog
=
The solar heat gain coefficient of the skylights.
Aog
=
The skylight area.
SHGCvg
=
The solar heat gain coefficient of the vertical fenestration.
Avg
=
The vertical fenestration area.
NOTE:
The vertical fenestration area does not include opaque doors and opaque spandrel panels.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 16-03-072, filed 1/19/16, effective 7/1/16)
WAC 51-11C-403231 Table C403.2.3(1)—Minimum efficiency requirements—Electrically operated unitary air conditioners and condensing units.
Table C403.2.3(1)A
Minimum Efficiency Requirements—Electrically Operated Unitary Air Conditioners and Condensing Units
Equipment Type
Size Category
Heating Section Type
Subcategory or Rating Condition
Minimum Efficiency
Test ProcedureA
Air conditioners, air cooled
< 65,000 Btu/hb
All
Split System
13.0 SEER
AHRI 210/240
Single Package
14.0 SEER
Through-the-wall
(air cooled)
≤ 30,000 Btu/hb
All
Split system
12.0 SEER
Single Package
12.0 SEER
Small duct high velocity,
air cooled
< 65,000 Btu/hb
All
Split system
11.0 SEER
Air conditioners,
air cooled
≥ 65,000 Btu/h
and
< 135,000 Btu/h
Electric Resistance (or None)
Split System and Single Package
11.2 EER
12.9 IEER
AHRI 210/240
All other
Split System and Single Package
11.0 EER
12.7 IEER
≥ 135,000 Btu/h
and
< 240,000 Btu/h
Electric Resistance (or None)
Split System and Single Package
11.0 EER
12.4 IEER
All other
Split System and Single Package
10.8 EER
12.2 IEER
≥ 240,000 Btu/h
and
< 760,000 Btu/h
Electric Resistance (or None)
Split System and Single Package
10.0 EER
11.6 IEER
All other
Split System and Single Package
9.8 EER
11.4 IEER
≥ 760,000 Btu/h
Electric Resistance (or None)
Split System and Single Package
9.7 EER
11.2 IEER
All other
Split System and Single Package
9.5 EER
11.6 IEER
Air conditioners,
water cooled
< 65,000 Btu/hb
All
Split System and Single Package
12.1 EER
12.3 IEER
AHRI 210/240
≥ 65,000 Btu/h
and
< 135,000 Btu/h
Electric Resistance (or None)
Split System and Single Package
12.1 EER
13.9 IEER
AHRI 210/240
All other
Split System and Single Package
11.9 EER
13.7 IEER
≥ 135,000 Btu/h
and
< 240,000 Btu/h
Electric Resistance (or None)
Split System and Single Package
12.5 EER
13.9 IEER
All other
Split System and Single Package
12.3 EER
13.7 IEER
≥ 240,000 Btu/h
and
< 760,000 Btu/h
Electric Resistance (or None)
Split System and Single Package
12.4 EER
13.6 IEER
All other
Split System and Single Package
12.2 EER
13.4 IEER
≥ 760,000 Btu/h
Electric Resistance (or None)
Split System and Single Package
12.2 EER
13.5 IEER
All other
Split System and Single Package
12.0 EER
13.3 IEER
Air conditioners,
evaporatively cooled
< 65,000 Btu/hb
All
Split System and Single Package
12.1 EER
12.3 IEER
AHRI 210/240
≥ 65,000 Btu/h
and
< 135,000 Btu/h
Electric Resistance (or None)
Split System and Single Package
12.1 EER
12.3 IEER
AHRI 340/360
All other
Split System and Single Package
11.9 EER
12.1 IEER
≥ 135,000 Btu/h
and
< 240,000 Btu/h
Electric Resistance (or None)
Split System and Single Package
12.0 EER
12.2 IEER
All other
Split System and Single Package
11.8 EER
12.0 IEER
≥ 240,000 Btu/h
and
< 760,000 Btu/h
Electric Resistance (or None)
Split System and Single Package
11.9 EER
12.1 IEER
All other
Split System and Single Package
11.7 EER
11.9 IEER
≥ 760,000 Btu/h
Electric Resistance (or None)
Split System and Single Package
11.7 EER
11.9 EER
All other
Split System and Single Package
11.5 EER
11.7 EER
Condensing units,
air cooled
≥ 135,000 Btu/h
 
 
10.5 EER
11.8 IEER
AHRI 365
Condensing units,
water cooled
≥ 135,000 Btu/h
 
 
13.5 EER
14.0 IEER
Condensing units,
evaporatively cooled
≥ 135,000 Btu/h
 
 
13.5 EER
14.0 IEER
For SI:
1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W.
a
Chapter 6 of the referenced standard contains a complete specification of the referenced test procedure, including the reference year version of the test procedure.
b
Single-phase, air-cooled air conditioners less than 65,000 Btu/h are regulated by NAECA. SEER values are those set by NAECA.
Table C403.2.3(1)B
Minimum Efficiency Requirements—Electrically Operated Variable Refrigerant Flow Air Conditioners
Equipment Type
Size Category
Heating
Section Type
Subcategory or Rating Condition
Minimum
Efficiency
Test
Procedure
VRF Air
Conditioners,
Air Cooled
< 65,000 Btu/h
All
VRF Multi-Split System
13.0 SEER
AHRI 1230
 
≥ 65,000 Btu/h and
< 135,000 Btu/h
Electric
Resistance (or none)
VRF Multi-Split System
11.2 EER
13.1 IEER
(before 1/1/2017)
15.5 IEER
(as of 1/1/2017)
 
 
≥ 135,000 Btu/h and
< 240,000 Btu/h
Electric
Resistance (or none)
VRF Multi-Split System
11.0 EER
12.9 IEER
(before 1/1/2017)
14.9 IEER
(as of 1/1/2017)
 
 
≥ 240,000 Btu/h
Electric
Resistance (or none)
VRF Multi-split System
10.0 EER
11.6 IEER
(before 1/1/2017)
13.9 IEER
(as of 1/1/2017)
 
Table C403.2.3(1)C
Minimum Efficiency Requirements—Electrically Operated Variable Refrigerant Flow Air-to-Air and Applied Heat Pumps
Equipment Type
Size Category
Heating
Section Type
Subcategory or Rating Condition
Minimum
Efficiency
Test
Procedure
VRF Air Cooled (cooling mode)
< 65,000 Btu/h
All
VRF Multi-Split System
13.0 SEER
AHRI 1230
 
≥ 65,000 Btu/h and < 135,000 Btu/h
Electric
Resistance (or none)
VRF Multi-Split System
11.0 EER
12.9 IEER
(before 1/1/2017)
14.6 IEER
(as of 1/1/2017)
 
 
≥ 65,000 Btu/h and < 135,000 Btu/h
Electric
Resistance (or none)
VRF Multi-Split System with Heat Recovery
10.8 EER
12.7 IEER
(before 1/1/2017)
14.4 IEER
(as of 1/1/2017)
 
 
≥ 135,000 Btu/h and < 240,000 Btu/h
Electric
Resistance (or none)
VRF Multi-Split System
10.6 EER
12.3 IEER
(before 1/1/2017)
13.9 IEER
(as of 1/1/2017)
 
 
≥ 135,000 Btu/h and < 240,000 Btu/h
Electric
Resistance (or none)
VRF Multi-Split System with Heat Recovery
10.4 EER
12.1 IEER
(before 1/1/2017)
13.7 IEER
(as of 1/1/2017)
 
 
≥ 240,000 Btu/h
Electric
Resistance (or none)
VRF Multi-Split System
9.5 EER
11.0 IEER
(before 1/1/2017)
12.7 IEER
(as of 1/1/2017)
 
 
≥ 240,000 Btu/h
Electric
Resistance (or none)
VRF Multi-Split System with Heat Recovery
9.3 EER
10.8 IEER
(before 1/1/2017)
12.5 IEER
(as of 1/1/2017)
 
VRF Water Source
(cooling mode)
< 65,000 Btu/h
All
VRF Multi-Split System
86ºF entering water
12.0 EER
AHRI 1230
 
< 65,000 Btu/h
All
VRF Multi-Split System with Heat Recovery
86ºF entering water
11.8 EER
 
 
≥ 65,000 Btu/h and < 135,000 Btu/h
All
VRF Multi-Split System
86ºF entering water
12.0 EER
 
 
≥ 65,000 Btu/h and < 135,000 Btu/h
All
VRF Multi-Split System with Heat Recovery
86ºF entering water
11.8 EER
 
 
≥ 135,000 Btu/h
All
VRF Multi-Split System
86ºF entering water
10.0 EER
 
 
≥ 135,000 Btu/h
All
VRF Multi-Split System with Heat Recovery
86ºF entering water
9.8 EER
 
VRF
Groundwater Source (cooling mode)
< 135,000 Btu/h
All
VRF Multi-Split System
59ºF entering water
16.2 EER
AHRI 1230
< 135,000 Btu/h
All
VRF Multi-Split System with Heat Recovery
59ºF entering water
16.0 EER
 
 
≥ 135,000 Btu/h
All
VRF Multi-Split System
59ºF entering water
13.8 EER
 
 
≥ 135,000 Btu/h
All
VRF Multi-Split System with Heat Recovery
59ºF entering water
13.6 EER
 
VRF Ground Source (cooling mode)
< 135,000 Btu/h
All
VRF Multi-Split System
77ºF entering water
13.4 EER
AHRI 1230
 
< 135,000 Btu/h
All
VRF Multi-Split System with Heat Recovery
77ºF entering water
13.2 EER
 
 
≥ 135,000 Btu/h
All
VRF Multi-Split System
77ºF entering water
11.0 EER
 
 
≥ 135,000 Btu/h
All
VRF Multi-Split System with Heat Recovery
77ºF entering water
10.8 EER
 
VRF Air Cooled (heating mode)
< 65,000 Btu/h
(cooling capacity)
—
VRF Multi-Split System
7.7 HSPF
AHRI 1230
 
≥ 65,000 Btu/h and < 135,000 Btu/h
(cooling capacity)
—
VRF Multi-Split System
47ºF db/43ºF wb outdoor air
17ºF db/15ºF wb outdoor air
3.3 COP
2.25 COP
 
 
≥ 135,000 Btu/h
(cooling capacity)
—
VRF Multi-Split System
47ºF db/43ºF wb outdoor air
17ºF db/15ºF wb outdoor air
3.2 COP
2.05 COP
 
VRF Water Source
(heating mode)
< 135,000 Btu/h
(cooling capacity)
—
VRF Multi-Split System
68ºF entering water
4.2 COP
AHRI 1230
 
≥ 135,000 Btu/h
(cooling capacity)
—
VRF Multi-Split System
68ºF entering water
3.9 COP
 
VRF Groundwater Source
(heating mode)
< 135,000 Btu/h
(cooling capacity)
—
VRF Multi-Split System
50ºF entering water
3.6 COP
AHRI 1230
 
≥ 135,000 Btu/h
(cooling capacity)
—
VRF Multi-Split System
50ºF entering water
3.3 COP
 
VRF Ground Source
(heating mode)
< 135,000 Btu/h
(cooling capacity)
—
VRF Multi-Split System
32ºF entering water
3.1 COP
AHRI 1230
 
≥ 135,000 Btu/h
(cooling capacity)
—
VRF Multi-Split System
32ºF entering water
2.8 COP
 
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 16-03-072, filed 1/19/16, effective 7/1/16)
WAC 51-11C-403238 Table C403.2.3(8)—Minimum efficiency requirements—Heat rejection equipment.
Table C403.2.3(8)
Minimum Efficiency Requirements—Heat Rejection Equipment
Equipment Typea
Total System Heat Rejection Capacity at Rated Conditions
Subcategory or Rating Condition
Performance
Requiredb,c,d,g,h
Test Proceduree,f
Propeller or axial fan open circuit cooling towers
All
95°F Entering Water
85°F Leaving Water
75°F Entering wb
≥ 38.2 gpm/hp
CTI ATC-105 and CTI STD-201
Centrifugal fan open circuit cooling towers
All
95°F Entering Water
85°F Leaving Water
75°F Entering wb
≥ 20.0 gpm/hp
CTI ATC-105 and CTI STD-201
Propeller or axial fan closed circuit cooling towers
All
102°F Entering Water
90°F Leaving Water
75°F Entering wb
≥ 14.0 gpm/hp
CTI ATC-105S and CTI STD-201
Centrifugal closed circuit cooling towers
All
102°F Entering Water
90°F Leaving Water
75°F Entering wb
≥ 7.0 gpm/hp
CTI ATC-105S and CTI STD-201
Propeller or axial fan evaporative condensers
All
R-507A Test Fluid
165°F Entering Gas Temperature
105°F Condensing Temperature
75°F Entering wb
≥ 157,000
Btu/h • hp
CTI ATC-106
Propeller or axial fan evaporative condensers
All
Ammonia Test Fluid
140°F Entering Gas Temperature
96.3°F Condensing Temperature
75°F Entering wb
≥ 134,000
Btu/h • hp
CTI ((ATC-160)) ATC-106
Centrifugal fan evaporative condensers
All
R-507A Test Fluid
165°F Entering Gas Temperature
105°F Condensing Temperature
75°F Entering wb
≥ 135,000
Btu/h • hp
CTI ATC-106
Centrifugal fan evaporative condensers
All
Ammonia Test Fluid
140°F Entering Gas Temperature
96.3°F Condensing Temperature
75°F Entering wb
≥ 110,000
Btu/h • hp
CTI ATC-106
Air cooled condensers
All
125°F Condensing Temperature
R-22 Test Fluid
190°F Entering Gas Temperature
15°F Subcooling
95°F Entering db
≥ 176,000
Btu/h • hp
AHRI 460
For SI:
°C = [(°F) - 32]/1.8, L/s • kW = (gpm/hp)/(11.83), COP = (Btu/h • hp)/(2550.7).
 
db = dry bulb temperature, °F;
 
wb = wet bulb temperature, °F.
a
The efficiencies and test procedures for both open and closed circuit cooling towers are not applicable to hybrid cooling towers that contain a combination of wet and dry heat exchange sections.
a
For purposes of this table, open circuit cooling tower performance is defined as the water flow rating of the tower at the thermal rating condition listed in Table 403.2.3(8) divided by the fan nameplate rated motor power.
c
For purposes of this table, closed circuit cooling tower performance is defined as the water flow rating of the tower at the thermal rating condition listed in Table 403.2.3(8) divided by the sum of the fan nameplate rated motor power and the spray pump nameplate rated motor power.
d
For purposes of this table, air cooled condenser performance is defined as the heat rejected from the refrigerant divided by the fan nameplate rated motor power.
e
Chapter 6 of the referenced standard contains a complete specification of the referenced test procedure, including the referenced year version of the test procedure.
f
Where a certification program exists for a covered product, and it includes provisions for verification and challenge of equipment efficiency ratings, then the product shall be listed in the certification program, or, where a certification program exists for a covered product, and it includes provisions for verification and challenge of equipment efficiency ratings, but the product is not listed in the existing certification program, the ratings shall be verified by an independent laboratory test report.
g
Cooling towers shall comply with the minimum efficiency listed in the table for that specific type of tower with the capacity effect of any project-specific accessories and/or options included in the capacity of the cooling tower.
h
For purposes of this table, evaporative condenser performance is defined as the heat rejected at the specified rating condition in the table, divided by the sum of the fan motor nameplate power and the integral spray pump nameplate power.
i
Requirements for evaporative condensers are listed with ammonia (R-717) and R-507A as test fluids in this table. Evaporative condensers intended for use with halocarbon refrigerants other than R-507A must meet the minimum efficiency requirements listed above with R-507A as the test fluid.
Reviser's note: The brackets and enclosed material in the text of the above section occurred in the copy filed by the agency and appear in the Register pursuant to the requirements of RCW 34.08.040.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 16-03-072, filed 1/19/16, effective 7/1/16)
WAC 51-11C-403291 Section C403.2.11—Air system design and control.
C403.2.11 Air system design and control. Each HVAC system having a total fan system motor nameplate horsepower (hp) exceeding 5 horsepower (hp) (3.7 kW) shall comply with the provisions of Sections C403.2.11.1 through C403.2.11.3.
The air flow requirements of Section C403.2.11.5 shall apply to all fan motors. Group R occupancy exhaust fans shall also comply with Section C403.2.11.4.
C403.2.11.1 Allowable fan motor horsepower. Each HVAC system at fan system design conditions shall not exceed the allowable fan system motor nameplate hp (Option 1) or fan system bhp (Option 2) as shown in Table C403.2.11.1(1). This includes supply fans, exhaust fans, return/relief fans, and fan-powered terminal units associated with systems providing heating or cooling capability. Single zone variable-air-volume systems shall comply with the constant volume fan power limitation.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Hospital, vivarium and laboratory systems that utilize flow control devices on exhaust or return to maintain space pressure relationships necessary for occupant health and safety or environmental control shall be permitted to use variable volume fan power limitation.
 
2. Individual exhaust fans with motor nameplate horsepower of 1 hp or less are exempt from allowable fan motor horsepower requirements.
C403.2.11.2 Motor nameplate horsepower. For each fan, the selected fan motor shall be no larger than the first available motor size greater than the brake horsepower (bhp). The fan brake horsepower (bhp) shall be indicated on the design documents to allow for compliance verification by the code official.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. For fans less than 6 bhp (4413 W), where the first available motor larger than the brake horsepower has a nameplate rating within 50 percent of the bhp, selection of the next larger nameplate motor size is allowed.
 
2. For fans 6 bhp (4413 W) and larger, where the first available motor larger than the bhp has a nameplate rating within 30 percent of the bhp, selection of the next larger nameplate motor size is allowed.
 
3. For fans used only in approved life safety applications such as smoke evacuation.
C403.2.11.3 Fan efficiency. Fans shall have a fan efficiency grade (FEG) of 67 or higher based on manufacturers' certified data, as defined by AMCA 205. The total efficiency of the fan at the design point of operation shall be within 15 percentage points of the maximum total efficiency of the fan.
EXCEPTION:
The following fans are not required to have a fan efficiency grade:
 
1. Fans of 5 hp (3.7 kW) or less as follows:
 
1.1. Single fan with a motor nameplate horsepower of 5 hp (3.7 kW) or less, unless Exception 1.2. applies.
 
1.2. Multiple fans in series or parallel that have a combined motor nameplate horsepower of 5 hp (3.7 kW) or less and are operated as the functional equivalent of a single fan.
 
2. Fans that are part of equipment covered under Section C403.2.3.
 
3. Fans included in an equipment package certified by an approved agency for air or energy performance.
 
4. Powered wall/roof ventilators.
 
5. Fans outside the scope of AMCA 205.
 
6. Fans that are intended to operate only during emergency conditions.
C403.2.11.4 Group R occupancy exhaust fan efficacy. The Group R occupancies of the building shall be provided with ventilation that meets the requirements of the International Mechanical Code, as applicable, or with other approved means of ventilation. Mechanical ventilation system fans with 400 cfm or less in capacity shall meet the efficacy requirements of Table C403.2.11.4.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Group R heat recovery ventilator and energy recovery ventilator fans that are less than 400 cfm.
 
2. Where whole house ventilation fans are integrated with forced-air systems that are tested and listed HVAC equipment, they shall be powered by an electronically commutated motor where required by Section C405.8.
 
3. Domestic clothes dryer booster fans, domestic range hood exhaust fans, and domestic range booster fans that operate intermittently.
C403.2.11.5 Fan airflow control. Each cooling system listed in Table C403.2.11.5 shall be designed to vary the indoor fan airflow as a function of load and shall comply with the following requirements:
1. Direct expansion (DX) and chilled water cooling units that control the capacity of the mechanical cooling directly based on space temperature shall have not fewer than two stages of fan control. Low or minimum speed shall not be greater than 66 percent of full speed. At low or minimum speed, the fan system shall draw not more than 40 percent of the fan power at full fan speed. Low or minimum speed shall be used during periods of low cooling load and ventilation-only operation.
2. Other units including DX cooling units and chilled water units that control the space temperature by modulating the airflow to the space shall have modulating fan control. Minimum speed shall be not greater than 50 percent of full speed. At minimum speed, the fan system shall draw no more than 30 percent of the power at full fan speed. Low or minimum speed shall be used during periods of low cooling load and ventilation-only operation.
3. Units that include an airside economizer in accordance with Section C403.3 shall have not fewer than two speeds of fan control during economizer operation.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Modulating fan control is not required for chilled water and evaporative cooling units with fan motors of less than 1 hp (0.746 kW) where the units are not used to provide ventilation air and the indoor fan cycles with the load.
 
2. Where the volume of outdoor air required to comply with the ventilation requirements of the International Mechanical Code at low speed exceeds the air that would be delivered at the minimum speed defined in this section, the minimum speed shall be selected to provide the required ventilation air.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 16-03-072, filed 1/19/16, effective 7/1/16)
WAC 51-11C-40344 Section C403.4.3—Heat rejection equipment.
C403.4.3 Heat rejection equipment. Heat rejection equipment such as air-cooled condensers, dry coolers, open-circuit cooling towers, closed-circuit cooling towers and evaporative condensers used for comfort cooling applications shall comply with this section.
EXCEPTION:
Heat rejection devices where energy usage is included in the equipment efficiency ratings listed in Tables C403.2.3(1)A, C403.2.3(1)B, C403.2.3(1)C, C403.2.3(2), C403.2.3(3), C403.2.3(7) and C403.2.3(9).
C403.4.3.1 Fan speed control.The fan speed shall be controlled as provided in Sections ((C403.4.3.2.1 and C403.4.3.2.2)) C403.4.3.1.1 and C403.4.3.1.2.
C403.4.3.1.1 Fan motors not less than 7.5 hp. Each fan powered by a motor of 7.5 hp (5.6 kW) or larger shall have controls that automatically change the fan speed to control the leaving fluid temperature or condensing temperature/pressure of the heat rejection device.
C403.4.3.1.2 Multiple-cell heat rejection equipment. Multiple-cell heat rejection equipment with variable speed fan drives shall be controlled in both of the following manners:
1. To operate the maximum number of fans allowed that comply with the manufacturer's requirements for all system components.
2. So all fans can operate at the same fan speed required for the instantaneous cooling duty, as opposed to staged (on/off) operation. Minimum fan speed shall be the minimum allowable speed of the fan drive system in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
C403.4.3.2 Limitation on centrifugal fan open-circuit cooling towers. Centrifugal fan open-circuit cooling towers with a combined rated capacity of 1,100 gpm (4164 L/m) or greater at 95°F (35°C) condenser water return, 85°F (29°C) condenser water supply, and 75°F (24°C) outdoor air wet-bulb temperature shall meet the energy efficiency requirement for axial fan open-circuit cooling towers listed in Table C403.2.3(8).
EXCEPTION:
Centrifugal open-circuit cooling towers that are designed with inlet or discharge ducts or require external sound attenuation.
C403.4.3.3 Tower flow turndown. Open-circuit cooling towers used on water-cooled chiller systems that are configured with multiple- or variable-speed condenser water pumps shall be designed so that all open circuit cooling tower cells can be run in parallel with the larger of the flow that is produced by the smallest pump at its minimum expected flow rate or at 50 percent of the design flow for the cell.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-056, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11C-40347 Section ((C403.4.7)) C403.4.6—Hot gas bypass limitation.
((C403.4.7)) C403.4.6 Hot gas bypass limitation. Cooling systems shall not use hot gas bypass or other evaporator pressure control systems unless the system is designed with multiple steps of unloading or continuous capacity modulation. The capacity of the hot gas bypass shall be limited as indicated in Table ((C403.4.7)) C403.4.6, as limited by Section C403.3.1.
((EXCEPTION:
Unitary packaged systems with cooling capacities not greater than 90,000 Btu/h (26,379 W).))
Table ((C403.4.7)) C403.4.6
Maximum Hot Gas Bypass Capacity
Rated Capacity
Maximum Hot Gas Bypass Capacity (% of total capacity)
≤ 240,000 Btu/h
50
˃ 240,000 Btu/h
25
For SI:
1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 16-13-089, filed 6/15/16, effective 7/16/16)
WAC 51-11C-40360 Section C403.6—Dedicated outdoor air systems (DOAS).
C403.6 Dedicated outdoor air systems (DOAS) (This section is optional until June 30, 2017; and becomes prescriptive as of July 1, 2017). For office, retail, education, libraries and fire stations. Outdoor air shall be provided to each occupied space by a dedicated outdoor air system (DOAS) which delivers 100 percent outdoor air without requiring operation of the heating and cooling system fans for ventilation air delivery.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Occupied spaces that are not ventilated by a mechanical ventilation system and are only ventilated by a natural ventilation system per Section 402 of the International Mechanical Code.
 
2. High efficiency variable air volume (VAV) systems complying with Section C403.7. This exception shall not be used as a substitution for a DOAS per Section C406.6 or as a modification to the requirements for the Standard Reference Design per Section C407.
C403.6.1 Energy recovery ventilation with DOAS. The DOAS shall include energy recovery ventilation that complies with the minimum energy recovery efficiency and energy recovery bypass requirements, where applicable, of Section C403.5.1.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Occupied spaces under the threshold of Section C403.5 with an average occupant load greater than 25 people per 1000 square feet (93 m2) of floor area (as established in Table 403.3.1.1 of the International Mechanical Code) that include demand control ventilation configured to reduce outdoor air by at least 50% below design minimum ventilation rates when the actual occupancy of the space served by the system is less than the design occupancy.
 
2. Systems installed for the sole purpose of providing makeup air for systems exhausting toxic, flammable, paint, or corrosive fumes or dust, dryer exhaust, or commercial kitchen hoods used for collecting and removing grease vapors and smoke.
C403.6.2 Heating/cooling system fan controls. Heating and cooling equipment fans, heating and cooling circulation pumps, and terminal unit fans shall cycle off and terminal unit primary cooling air shall be shut off when there is no call for heating or cooling in the zone.
EXCEPTION:
Fans used for heating and cooling using less than 0.12 watts per cfm may operate when space temperatures are within the setpoint deadband (Section C403.2.4.1.2) to provide destratification and air mixing in the space.
C403.6.3 Impracticality. Where the code official determines that full compliance with all the requirements of Sections C403.6.1 and C403.6.2 would be impractical, it is permissible to provide an approved alternate means of compliance that achieves a comparable level of energy efficiency. For the purposes of this section, impractical means that an HVAC system complying with Section C403.6 cannot effectively be utilized due to an unusual use or configuration of the building.
C403.7 High efficiency variable air volume (VAV) systems. For HVAC systems subject to the requirements of Section C403.6 but utilizing Exception 2 of that section, a high efficiency VAV system may be provided without a separate parallel DOAS when the system is designed, installed, and configured to comply with all of the following criteria (this exception shall not be used as a substitution for a DOAS per Section C406.6 or as a modification to the requirements for the Standard Reference Design per Section C407):
1. The VAV systems are provided with airside economizer per Section 403.3 without exceptions.
2. A direct-digital control (DDC) system is provided to control the VAV air handling units and associated terminal units per Section C403.2.4.12 regardless of sizing thresholds of Table C403.2.4.12.1.
3. Multiple-zone VAV systems with a minimum outdoor air requirement of 2,500 cfm (1180 L/s) or greater shall be equipped with a device capable of measuring outdoor airflow intake under all load conditions. The system shall be capable of increasing or reducing the outdoor airflow intake based on feedback from the VAV terminal units as required by Section C403.4.4.3, without exceptions, and Section C403.2.6.2 demand controlled ventilation.
4. Multiple-zone VAV systems with a minimum outdoor air requirement of 2,500 cfm (1180 L/s) or greater shall be equipped with a device capable of measuring supply airflow to the VAV terminal units under all load conditions.
5. In addition to meeting the zone isolation requirements of C403.2.4.4 a single VAV air handling unit shall not serve more than 50,000 square feet (2323 m2) unless a single floor is greater than 50,000 square feet (2323 m2) in which case the air handler is permitted to serve the entire floor.
6. The primary maximum cooling air for the VAV terminal units serving interior cooling load driven zones shall be sized for a supply air temperature that is a minimum of 5°F greater than the supply air temperature for the exterior zones in cooling.
7. Air terminal units with a minimum primary airflow setpoint of 50% or greater of the maximum primary airflow setpoint shall be sized with an inlet velocity of no greater than 900 feet per minute.
8. DDC systems be designed and configured per the guidelines set by high performance sequences of operation for HVAC systems (ASHRAE GPC 36, RP-1455).
9. Allowable fan motor horsepower shall not exceed 90% of the allowable HVAC fan system bhp (Option 2) as defined by Section C403.2.11.1.
10. All fan powered VAV terminal units (series or parallel) shall be provided with electronically commutated motors. The DDC system shall be configured to vary the speed of the motor as a function of the heating and cooling load in the space. Minimum speed shall not be greater than 66% of design airflow required for the greater of heating or cooling operation. Minimum speed shall be used during periods of low heating and cooling operation and ventilation-only operation.
EXCEPTION:
For series fan powered terminal units where the volume of primary air required to deliver the ventilation requirements at minimum speed exceeds the air that would be delivered at the speed defined above, the minimum speed setpoint shall be configured to exceed the value required to provide the required ventilation air.
11. Fan-powered VAV terminal units shall only be permitted at perimeter zones with an envelope heating load requirement. All other VAV terminal units shall be single duct terminal units.
12. When in occupied heating or in occupied deadband between heating and cooling all fan powered VAV terminal units shall be configured to reset the primary air supply setpoint, based on the VAV air handling unit outdoor air vent fraction, to the minimum ventilation airflow required per International Mechanical Code without utilizing the exceptions 2, 3, or 4 of Section C403.4.4.
13. Spaces that are larger than 150 square feet (14 m2) and with an occupant load greater than or equal to 25 people per 1000 square feet (93 m2) of floor area (as established in Table 403.3.1.1 of the International Mechanical Code) shall be provided with all of the following features:
13.1. A dedicated VAV terminal unit capable of controlling the space temperature and minimum ventilation shall be provided.
13.2. Demand control ventilation (DCV) shall be provided that utilizes a carbon dioxide sensor to reset the ventilation setpoint of the VAV terminal unit from the design minimum to design maximum ventilation rate as required by Chapter 4 of the International Mechanical Code.
13.3. Occupancy sensors shall be provided that are configured to reduce the minimum ventilation rate to zero and setback room temperature setpoints by a minimum of 5°F, for both cooling and heating, when the space is unoccupied.
14. Dedicated server rooms, electronic equipment rooms, telecom rooms, or other similar spaces with cooling loads greater than 5 watts/sf shall be provided with separate, independent HVAC systems to allow the VAV air handlers to turn off during unoccupied hours in the office space and to allow the supply air temperature reset to occur.
EXCEPTION:
The VAV air handling unit and VAV terminal units may be used for secondary backup cooling when there is a failure of the primary HVAC system.
 
((Additionally, server rooms, electronic equipment rooms, telecom rooms, or other similar spaces shall be provided with airside economizer per Section 403.3 without using the exceptions to Section C403.3.))
Additionally, server rooms, electronic equipment rooms, telecom rooms, or other similar spaces shall be provided with airside economizer per Section 403.3 without using the exceptions to Section C403.3.
EXCEPTION:
Heat recovery per exception 9 of Section 403.3 may be in lieu of airside economizer for the separate, independent HVAC system.
15. HVAC system central heating or cooling plant will include a minimum of one of the following options:
15.1. VAV terminal units with hydronic heating coils connected to systems with hot water generation equipment limited to the following types of equipment: Gas-fired hydronic boilers with a thermal efficiency, Et, of not less than 90%, air-to-water heat pumps or heat recovery chillers.
15.2. Chilled water VAV air handing units connected to systems with chilled water generation equipment with IPLV values more than 25% higher than the minimum part load efficiencies listed in Table C403.2.3(7), in the appropriate size category, using the same test procedures. Equipment shall be listed in the appropriate certification program to qualify. The smallest chiller or compressor in the central plant shall not exceed 20% of the total central plant cooling capacity or the chilled water system shall include thermal storage sized for a minimum of 20% of the total central cooling plant capacity.
16. The DDC system shall include a fault detection and diagnostics (FDD) system complying with the following:
16.1. The following temperature sensors shall be permanently installed to monitor system operation:
16.1.1. Outside air.
16.1.2. Supply air.
16.1.3. Return air.
16.2. Temperature sensors shall have an accuracy of ±2°F (1.1°C) over the range of 40°F to 80°F (4°C to 26.7°C).
16.3. The VAV air handling unit controller shall be configured to provide system status by indicating the following:
16.3.1. Free cooling available.
16.3.2. Economizer enabled.
16.3.3. Compressor enabled.
16.3.4. Heating enabled.
16.3.5. Mixed air low limit cycle active.
16.3.6. The current value of each sensor.
16.4. The VAV air handling unit controller shall be capable of manually initiating each operating mode so that the operation of compressors, economizers, fans and the heating system can be independently tested and verified.
16.5. The VAV air handling unit shall be configured to report faults to a fault management application accessible by day-to-day operating or service personnel or annunciated locally on zone thermostats.
16.6. The VAV terminal unit shall be configured to report if the VAV inlet valve has failed by performing the following diagnostic check at a maximum interval of once a month:
16.6.1. Command VAV terminal unit primary air inlet valve closed and verify that primary airflow goes to zero.
16.6.2. Command VAV terminal unit primary air inlet valve to design airflow and verify that unit is controlling to with 10% of design airflow.
16.7. The VAV terminal unit shall be configured to report and trend when the zone is driving the following VAV air handling unit reset sequences. The building operator shall have the capability to exclude zones used in the reset sequences from the DDC control system graphical user interface:
16.7.1. Supply air temperature setpoint reset to lowest supply air temperature setpoint for cooling operation.
16.7.2. Supply air duct static pressure setpoint reset for the highest duct static pressure setpoint allowable.
16.8. The FDD system shall be configured to detect the following faults:
16.8.1. Air temperature sensor failure/fault.
16.8.2. Not economizing when the unit should be economizing.
16.8.3. Economizing when the unit should not be economizing.
16.8.4. Outdoor air or return air damper not modulating.
16.8.5. Excess outdoor air.
16.8.6 VAV terminal unit primary air valve failure.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 16-13-089, filed 6/15/16, effective 7/16/16)
WAC 51-11C-40507 Section ((C405.7)) C405.6—Electrical energy consumption.
C405.6 Electrical transformers (Mandatory). Electric transformers shall meet the minimum efficiency requirements of Table C405.6 as tested and rated in accordance with the test procedure listed in DOE 10 C.F.R. 431. The efficiency shall be verified through certification under an approved certification program or, where no certification program exists, the equipment efficiency ratings shall be supported by data furnished by the transformer manufacturer.
EXCEPTION:
The following transformers are exempt:
 
1. Transformers that meet the Energy Policy Act of 2005 exclusions based on the DOE 10 C.F.R. 431 definition of special purpose applications.
 
2. Transformers that meet the Energy Policy Act of 2005 exclusions that are not to be used in general purpose applications based on information provided in DOE 10 C.F.R. 431.
 
3. Transformers that meet the Energy Policy Act of 2005 exclusions with multiple voltage taps where the highest tap is at least 20 percent more than the lowest tap.
 
4. Drive transformers.
 
5. Rectifier transformers.
 
6. Auto-transformers.
 
7. Uninterruptible power system transformers.
 
8. Impedance transformers.
 
9. Regulating transformers.
 
10. Sealed and nonventilating transformers.
 
11. Machine tool transformer.
 
12. Welding transformer.
 
13. Grounding transformer.
 
14. Testing transformer.
Table C405.6
Minimum Nominal Efficiency Levels For 10 C.F.R. 431 Low Voltage Dry-Type Distribution Transformers
Single Phase Transformers
Three Phase Transformers
kVAa
Efficiency (%)b
kVAa
Efficiency (%)b
15
97.7
15
97.0
25
98.0
30
97.5
37.5
98.2
45
97.7
50
98.3
75
98.0
75
98.5
112.5
98.2
100
98.6
150
98.3
167
98.7
225
98.5
250
98.8
300
98.6
333
98.9
500
98.7
 
 
750
98.8
 
 
1000
98.9
a
kiloVolt-Amp rating.
b
Nominal efficiencies shall be established in accordance with the DOE 10 C.F.R. 431 test procedure for low voltage dry-type transformers.
C405.7 Dwelling unit electrical energy consumption (Mandatory). Each dwelling unit located in a Group R-2 building shall have a separate electrical meter. A utility tenant meter meets this requirement. See Section C409 for additional requirements for energy metering and energy consumption management.