Identify deficiencies that may impact IEQ and/or sources of odor concerns. Typically includes the following depending on the nature of concern, but not limited to:
- interview/questionnaire of concern individual(s)
- inspection above drop ceiling (condition of roof deck, pipe insulation, return air plenum)
- inspection of ventilation system (operation of variable air volume box and outdoor air dampers, check controls, measurements of carbon dioxide, temperature and relative humidity, sources near outdoor air intake, measure return and supply air volume, cleanliness of coils, liner and condensate pan)
- inspection of exterior
- inspection below drop ceiling (housekeeping, sink and floor drain traps, signs of past and present moisture concern via visual and/or moisture meter, mold growth, ensure connection of current and capping of abandoned sanitary vents, odorizers, excessive plants and fabric items, identify potential pathways, and measure volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, and lighting)
Date of Assessment: June 9, 2021
The temperature was slightly low (71.8 F) and the relative humidity was elevated (70.8%).
The Office of the Environment spoke with the HVAC Department to determine the state of the chillers and/or cooling towers. Just prior to the assessment, the cooling tower had apparently been shut-down for maintenance. The cooling tower had a significant amount of cicadas within the strainer. The tower had to be shut-down for cleaning/maintenance. The cooling tower being shut-down likely caused the elevated humidity within the space during the assessment.
The room does not have a return air duct/grille.
According to the facility work order system, the chiller was not operational on June 10, 2021, however this was corrected on the same day.
A data logger was placed within the space on June 9 to June 16, 2021 to monitor humidty levels overtime.
Humidity levels were not above 70% after June 11, 2021 (cooling tower and/or chillers not operational or in alarm prior to).
The Air Handling Unit that serves the space (AHU-12) was assessed:
- Filter bypass was observe
- A hole in the supply ductwork causing duct leakage was identified. This would reduce the amount of conditioned air being delivered to all spaces served by AHU-12.
- No concerns were identified with the coils.
Although not likely related to the concern, the fiberglass pipe insulation within the penthouse was deteriorating due to age.
A work order was submitted for the following HVAC related items:
- Seal the supply duct void found associated with AHU-12
- Correct the filter bypass associated with AHU-12.
- Explore the possibility/feasibility of installing a return duct in the room to assist with air movement.
- Add the replacement of the deteriorating pipe insulation to the deferred maintenance list.