MEP Systems
The case study’s MEP basis of design focuses on the concepts of decarbonization and modularity. The goal is to provide a high performing building that is low carbon, affordable, and comfortable for residents.
Two climate scenarios have been analyzed as part of the study with the first climate location being the actual case study site in San Francisco. The design for this climate scenario provides heating only. The second climate location for analysis is in Atlanta, GA which has more pronounced temperature and humidity fluctuations when compared to San Francisco. The design for this climate scenario provides heating and cooling.
The basis of design for both climate scenarios utilize system solutions that require no centralizing ducting when compared to a typical MEP design for a multi-family housing building. The reduction or elimination of ducting means less embodied carbon for the construction of the building itself, and this massive reduction in physical material also results in time and cost savings for the project.
The distributed nature of modular MEP systems allows for the elimination of heating and cooling distribution systems and the significant energy losses of those systems. Modular systems that are preinstalled in a factory provide lower construction costs. Distributed systems are inherently more reliable and easier to maintain. When central systems fail, full building services are lost. Smaller distributed systems are easier and faster to replace.
Decarbonized
The electrified buildings served by renewable based electricity, is the accelerated path to building decarbonization. The Aldea concept revolves around the immediate cessation of the use of natural gas, propane and/or other fossil fuels on-site, which contribute to climate change and global warming. As more renewable energy is installed overtime, both on building rooftops and through large scale solar farms, the grid will decarbonize, ensuring all-electric buildings have a clean source of electricity.
Modularized/Distributed
Residential all-electric buildings designed around modular MEP systems allow for rapid and low cost off site preassembly and gives the occupant control over their systems. Each unit will have its own individual HVAC and domestic hot system, in addition to a smart electrical panel. By giving control to the occupant, energy usage data is transparent, which will ultimately reduce energy consumption and utility bills.
Heating Only
Electric Baseboards with ERV
In milder climates such as the Bay Area, residential buildings are designed with a robust building envelope and heating only systems. This design strategy reduces the energy loads of the building by eliminating active cooling systems. Heat is provided via an electric baseboard heater in each bedroom and living room, with remote wall programmable thermostats. To contribute to the modular design, the heat recovery ventilator (HRV) is used for ventilation and exhaust. Each unit is actively ventilated at all times, which guarantees the delivery of dry, fresh air for the benefit of the occupants.
Heating and Cooling All-In-One Heating, Cooling, Ventilation & Domestic Hot Water Unit
In climates which require cooling, the Aldea prototype uses a modular box that provide heating, cooling, ventilation and domestic hot water within one unit. This would be placed in a closet in each living space. The unit recovers waste heat from cooling to heat the hot water. When providing ventilation, heat is recovered in the winter from the exhaust air. The unit would use CO2 as a refrigerant significantly lowering climate impacts of typical refrigerants. The unit would run a significantly higher COPs then typical heat pumps available today.
