Project Description

HEA is providing commissioning services for all bridge and facility systems. Building systems include bridge systems (power, lighting, intelligent traffic systems, structural health monitoring, security, network communication, radio and facilities systems), building automation systems, mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. HEA’s services will provide documented confirmation that building systems function in accordance with criteria set forth in the project documents to satisfy the owner’s operational needs.

Project Description

HEA is the commissioning authority for the World Trade Center Memorial Fountains, Memorial Museum & Pavilion project. The $800 million facility was created to commemorate the events of 9/11. HEA is providing comprehensive mechanical, electrical, plumbing, security, vertical transport, closed circuit TV and fire protection commissioning services for the new 190,000 sf facility. HEA is satisfying the requirements for the NY State Executive Order 111, Sustainable Guidelines for the WTC Redevelopment Projects, LEED NC: Energy and Atmosphere (EA) Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems and EA Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning. In addition to commissioning, HEA is providing mechanical, electrical and plumbing coordination services and support.

At the very heart of the Memorial, inscribed on bronze parapets surrounding the twin Fountains are the names of nearly 3,000 men, women and children that were killed in the attacks of September 11, 2001 and February 26, 1993. The two 800 foot-long parapets have both heating and cooling systems to ensure the public can see and touch the names at all times. The unique cooling system, required due to the bronze parapets heating up in excess of 160 degrees during the summer months, provides over 200- tons of cooling capability to each of the parapets. HEA commissioned and participated in the redesigning and implementation of both parapet systems. HEA redesigned the design build system by realigning the system piping so it would no longer be visible when viewing the names. HEA encountered many challenges throughout the redesign most notably with the flex stainless steel piping. HEA had to design the piping so when they were rigged for installation each 3,000 lb panel would not damage the flex hoses, and then align without damaging the hoses that passed through the mounting flange into the below tunnel where they connected to the headers for the systems.

The project is composed of three elements: a ground level plaza with waterfalls at the site of the fallen towers, the below ground level Memorial Museum of approximately 150,000 sf and the above ground level Museum Pavilion. The Museum Pavilion serves as the visitor’s entryway to the Memorial and Memorial Museum. This building includes museum ticketing, security check-in similar to airports, an auditorium and café. Mechanical commissioning includes an emergency chiller, vertical transportation and a generator shared with the Memorial. The Museum Pavilion obtains its electrical power from the Memorial and its primary chilled water supply comes from the central chiller plant constructed by the Port Authority of NY and NJ.

Project Description

Hord Coplan Macht, Inc. hired HEA to provide LEED commissioning services for the Brightview Senior Living facility located in Bethesda, MD. The facility will include 98 assisted-living units, with 29 providing specialized memory care. Commissioning services provided will satisfy LEED Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite: Fundamental Commissioning and Verification and Credit: Enhanced Commissioning for LEED v4. Commissioning activities for mechanical, electrical, plumbing and renewable energy systems and assemblies will be in accordance with ASHRAE Guideline 0-2005 and ASHRAE Guideline 1.1-2007 for HVAC&R systems, as they relate to energy, water, indoor environmental quality and durability. 

Systems included in HEA's scope of work include: HVAC, electrical distribution, emergency electrical distribution, domestic hot water, plumbing piping and lighting controls. 

Project Description

Brookfield Office Properties contracted HEA to provide commissioning and construction management services for the Southwest Tower Residential project. HEA's services included reviewing equipment submittals, commissioning of MEP and control systems and balancing verification. HEA maintained a daily site presence to track ongoing issues related to MEP work; coordinated work with subcontractors to move towards turnover and commissioning; ran weekly meetings to discuss work and resolve issues and also helped to rack and verify turnover documentation. 

All deficient items identified during the commissioning process were documented and tracked regularly and re-inspected following corrective action. As a result, HEA's commissioning process identified over 300 deficiencies. Examples of how the commissioning process improved equipment performance and overall occupant comfort include:

- Several air conditioning units were installed without local controls and could not be operated as per design intent. HEA advised and provided comments to new controls submittals

- Multiple packaged terminal air conditioner deficiencies were found during testing. HEA and Brookfield met and discussed proper systematic start-up and deficiency re-inspection. Upon review, deficiencies quantity was reduced during functional testing

- During balancing it was observed that the exhaust air system was not operating as intended. Consistent air flow regulator dampers were found to be missing/installed incorrectly, causing flow issues in respective ductwork

Project Description

Flank Development contracted HEA to provide both commissioning services and construction management support for the 71 Smith Street residential project. HEA's scope of work included commissioning of the HVAC systems, in-room hotel automation system, Building Management System (BMS), lighting controls, emergency electrical systems, plumbing and life safety systems. Construction management support entailed a full-time on-site presence as a supplemental MEP super for the General Contractor. 

In an effort to maintain maximum building occupant comfort, as well as maximize energy efficiency, HEA was able to identify and correct many issues leading up to turn-over of the building. Some examples of how the commissioning process improved equipment performance and overall occupant comfort include:

- The primary and secondary condenser water piping installation did not allow for proper control of the condenser water supply temperature. Coordination was led by HEA, with the design engineer and the construction team all working together, piping and sequence of operations were reconfigured. HEA then verified the new system control through several inspections and functional testing

- During commissioning it was identified that the intended communication protocols between the boiler plant and the building management system were not compatible. HEA worked with the controls contractor to resolve the communications issues, tested and verified operation of the boiler plant in conjunction with the BMS

- HEA led the construction team in conducting an integrated systems test of the emergency power distribution system, or a "pull the plug" test. Leading up to and during the test, several issues were identified and corrected, such as: emergency power elevator recall sequences; emergency power wiring to the BMS front end computer, and incorrect operation of load shed sequences. 

Project Description

Shelter Development, LLC contracted HEA to provide commissioning services for the Lake Tappan Senior Living Community project. HEA's services included but were not limited to reviewing of design documents, shop drawings, commissioning of all mechanical, control and building envelope (moisture air, vapor and thermal control layers associated with the subgrade waterproofing at the foundation systems, the exterior wall systems, storefronts and roof) systems and balancing verification. 

The following is a list of major deficiencies found during the commissioning process. Although these deficiencies represent only a sample of all items found, once corrected their sum effect on the buildings contributed to the buildings proper and efficient operation:

- VTACS located on the 3rd floor were found to be switched between heating and cooling modes of operation. After consulting the mechanical contractor, this issue was corrected. The units were tested again and proved to operate as designed.

- Domestic hot water piping was found to be missing a check valve on the incoming side of the domestic cold water

- Domestic hot water piping was missing a ball valve installed with the BYPASS around the mixing valve which should be operated in the closed position

- Domestic hot water valves located in the mechanical room were relocated such that they could be operated without any obstruction

- Generator internal wiring was found to be hanging loose. HEA requested that the electrical contractor secure the wiring and tie it back to prevent internal damage to the unit

Project Description

HEA was hired by Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide to provide existing building commissioning (EBCx) for the mechanical systems associated with the Westin Peachtree Plaza. HEA evaluated the systems in the mechanical spaces, guest rooms, meeting spaces, guest services and lobbies by investigating, analyzing and optimizing the performance through the identification and implementation of low/no-cost and capital intensive energy conservation measures. 

Systems commissioned included air handling systems, air terminal units, fan coil units, exhaust air, chilled water, heating hot water, domestic hot water and building automation systems (controlled devices, sensors, control loops, logic and graphical user interface). 

Project Description

HEA provided commissioning services for the transformation of The Metropolitan, a 14-story neo-Gothic building, built in 1925. The Metropolitan was a showplace to house jewelry showrooms, artisan and milliners studios, dress stores, beauty shops, artists’ studios, advertising agents, and other related businesses. The building has been transformed into Detroit’s first extended stay hotel: Element by Starwood. The hotel has 110 one- and two-bedroom hotel rooms, 2,000 sf of meeting space on the second-floor mezzanine, approximately 7,000 sf of retail space on the ground floor and lower level and a rooftop bar and patio. 

HEA’s scope of services included providing commissioning services necessary to satisfy the LEED Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems and Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning. Systems commissioned included: air handlers, return fans, energy recovery units/DOAS units, terminal units, fan coil unit, fixed speed exhaust fans, condenser units, gas fired unit heaters, electric cabinet unit heaters, domestic hot water heater, domestic hot water pump, lighting controls and occupancy sensors.

Project Description

The Extell Development Company contracted HEA to provide commissioning services for the 157 West 57th Street project, now known as One57. This project is a 75-story condominium tower that includes 92 units. 

HEA’s services included commissioning of the mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment, control systems, and balancing verification.

The following are three examples of how the commissioning process attributed to improved equipment performance, proper life safety and tighter building envelope:

• An Emergency Power or Pull the Plug test was completed by HEA which ensured all emergency power systems operated as required in the event of a loss of normal power. The systems inspected included emergency lighting and egress, vertical transport, fire alarm, smoke exhaust, UPS, IT, BMS and mechanical systems.
• Inspections for mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment ensured the equipment would operate according to the manufacturer’s required specifications, and was installed as per the Design Engineer’s specifications.
• Sensor calibration and point to point testing for mechanical controls ensured all information depicted at the BMS is accurate and all commands issued from the BMS are executed in the field.

Overall, the commissioning process to date has been a success due to the number of issues that were found and resolved by HEA.

Project Description

HEA was contracted by Kings & Queens Maintenance Services to provide Local Law 87 (LL87) energy audit and retro-commissioning services for the Dumont Hotel renovation project, located at 150 East 34th Street in New York, New York. As per the requirements of Local Law 87 of 2009, the objective of the project was to assess and benchmark the building’s current energy use and to reduce the building’s overall energy consumption. 

During the energy audit and retro-commissioning process, HEA found that domestic hot water was being created using steam that required the boiler to run during the summer. With a conversion to gas, energy savings will be realized by reduction of oil usage by steam boilers and increased efficiency of new domestic hot waters. The building’s pressure control settings were also not coordinated correctly, causing the boiler to maintain a steam pressure between 6-8 PSI. By lowering this steam pressure, the building was able to save energy by reducing standby losses. Finally, it was found that controls on the roof top and lobby unit were not operational and were causing thermal comfort issues and excess energy usage. HEA helped to address all of these deficiencies to help ensure the building was running as energy-efficiently as possible. 

Project Description

Brookfield Office Properties has contracted HEA to provide commissioning services that will include the necessary requirements to satisfy the LEED Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems and Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning for the Brookfield Northeast Office Tower Project. The Northeast Office Tower is the first of two commercial buildings planned for Brookfield's five-acre, mixed-use development, Manhattan West. 

HEA's services include reviewing of the shop drawings and submittals from an operational standpoint, in addition to determining the most feasible way to install the equipment for both performance and serviceability. 

Equipment/systems to be commissioned by HEA include all mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, such as: fire alarm, fire protection piping, fire pump & jockey pumps, fire reserve tanks, dry pipe system, plumbing piping, steam domestic hot waters, instantaneous hot water heater, domestic water booster pump, sump / elevator pumps, fuel oil, domestic water house tanks, steam pry stations, storm water retention, btu meters, electrical metering, grounding & lighting protection, bus duct, lighting controls, electrical panels, distribution board, transformers, emergency generator, automatic transfer switches, uninterruptible power supply, pull the plug test, micro turbine, plate/frame heat exchanger, shell & tube heat exchangers (co-gen backup), hot water pumps and heat recovery systems. 

Project Description

This project is part of the New York City Police Department's (NYPD) construction of a new Police Academy in an effort to incorporate many of the NYPD’s existing training facilities throughout New York City into one 32-acre campus. This project is part of the development of a modern academic and physical training complex for recruits, civilians and active police officers that are currently spread across the city. The 32-acre campus, operated by the NYPD Training Bureau, opened its doors in 2014, consolidating the old Police Academy in Manhattan and existing training facilities throughout the city into one central location. The new facility has nearly three times the amount of useable space as the old academy and features modern classrooms, a gymnasium and indoor track, and a tactical village that emphasizes hands-on scenario-based training. Mock-environment training rooms include a precinct station house, multi-family residence, grocery store, restaurant, park, court room, bank, and a subway car and platform

Project Description

Buffalo State College renovated their existing science building in two phases. Phase I involved adding 90,000 sf of new construction. The multi-story addition now houses new teaching labs, research labs, faculty offices and instrumentation rooms. Phase II included a full renovation to the north wing of the existing building, demolition of the south wing and construction of a second addition of roughly 59,000 sf. 

Project Description

HEA provided commissioning services on all mechanical systems for this 15-story control tower building. HEA upgraded all the HVAC systems in the tower and the base building. HEA provided the commissioning plan, performed functional testing and provided a final commissioning report on all deficiencies.

The control tower is approximately a 230 sf structure consisting of 15 levels above grade. The cab and penthouse at the upper level is constructed with a steel structure and is clad with sloped glass curtain wall and insulated metal panels. Between the Cable Access Level through the 9th floor, construction is steel structure with precast concrete cladding panels except for the Junction level which is clad with insulated metal panes. Below level 9, the control tower is constructed of precast structural elements with cast in place concrete panels.

Project Description

HEA provided LEED commissioning services for the Coppin State University's Science and Technology Center in Baltimore, MD. The Science and Technology Center is an 149,950 sf, six-story structure. The building includes four primary levels occupied by laboratories, classrooms, offices and an upper level mechanical penthouse with a greenhouse and a partially below grade level that includes a loading dock, Vivarium and a Satellite Central Utility Plant (SCUP). 

HEA's scope of work included providing commissioning services for all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire alarm, boiler and Building Management System (BMS)/Controls, security and communications systems. HEA's services satisfied LEED Energy and Atmosphere (EA) Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems and EA Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning. This building achieved LEED Gold certification. 

Project Description

HEA was contracted by Dartmouth College to provide commissioning services for the Irving Institute for Energy and Society project. The institute will employ an integrated, interdisciplinary approach to problem solving, with knowledge and tools from diverse disciplines. In keeping with this interdisciplinary focus, the institute will be located between the Tuck School of Business and Thayer School of Engineering in a newly constructed approximately 55,000 sf, three-story academic building. A connection to Murdough Hall is envisioned as an atrium, providing a natural point of convergence for faculty and students from around campus who engaged in issues related to energy and society. The building will also contain several teaching spaces of various sizes, faculty and research office and workplace environments, research and demonstration labs and maker spaces, and a series of spaces designed to foster informal interaction between faculty, researchers and students. 

HEA's scope of work includes mechanical, electrical, plumbing, BMS and building envelope. This facility intends to register for LEED designation. The following types of systems are to be part of the building envelope commissioning process:

- Air barriers, thermal barriers, vapor barriers, drainage boundaries and moisture barriers integral to the exterior enclosure

- Roofing systems with associated flashing and trims

- Below grade and above grade waterproofing system

- Fenestration systems (curtain walls, windows, storefronts and glazed openings)

- Exterior wall cladding systems, inclusive of precast cladding panels and formed metal rain screen cladding systems, etc. with associated insulation, support systems and air and vapor barriers

- Exterior louvers

- Stone cladding or other cladding materials

- Sealant joints, expansion joints and control joints related to the exterior enclosure

Project Description

The University of North Carolina Charlotte contracted HEA to provide commissioning services for the Atkins Library Renewal project. This project is a rehab of two existing air handler units (AHUs). This is a phased project, as the AHUs are hot deck/cold deck with work commencing on the off-season for each. Ductwork, VAVs, piping and control valves are included in the scope of work with TAB verification. 

HEA's services included commissioning services for the pre-construction, construction and turnover phases, including OPR, BoD coordination, commissioning specification and plan, attending construction meetings, shop drawings & submittal review, systems installation inspection, systems performance assessment, maintenance planning & operations training and commissioning reports and logs. In addition to various upgrades of ductwork, terminal units and controls throughout the building, systems to be commissioned by HEA include AHU modifications, relief fans, ductwork, terminal units, hydronic piping, hydronic specialties, BMS interface and graphics. 

Atkins Library faced many challenges early in the project, including above-ceiling cable support complying with North Carolina State building code. On several floors, asbestos was discovered on duct and insulation and caused a delay in project schedule. Sensitive artifacts in the building presented a challenge for both the construction team and HEA due to its sensitivity to particulates in the air and triggering a halon system. The existing AHU was removed and replaced by a newer assembly and new air filters and steam systems were implemented as a result of the new capabilities. HEA identified several items in the sequence of the AHU that the University accepted to help optimize efficiency of newly installed units. Items included individual floor sensor calibration and placement, economizer sequential trigger, alarm and humidification feedback mismatch and pressure rest tolerances. 

Project Description

HEA was contracted by the State of Mississippi to provide building commissioning services for the renovation of the existing Stewart Hall on the campus of Jackson State University in Jackson, MS. The building was an existing male dormitory built in 1961 & 1962 and will remain a male dormitory for this project, due to shortage of space on campus. The owner is looking for the building to be brought up to existing codes and to be Stewart Hall version 2.0, which includes designing for future technology into the design. The 5-story, 37,033 sf building has approximately 90 rooms and will house approximately 180 male students when complete. The existing building is thought to be slab on grade. 

HEA's scope of work includes: space heating, ventilation, air conditioning/cooling HVAC pumps, variable frequency drives (VFD), HVAC controls, domestic hot water, lighting controls, day lighting controls, emergency power and fire alarm. In addition, HEA is providing building envelope review of the exterior window replacements. 

Project Description

HEA was contracted by Cornell University to provide commissioning services for the Statler Hotel Terrace Kitchen Exhaust Hood Repairs project. Services included, but were not limited to, reviewing of design documents, shop drawings, commissioning of mechanical, control systems and balancing verification. The terrace kitchen exhaust riser and fans were damaged in a previous fire and have been inoperable. The intent of the current project was to replace the hoods, exhaust riser, and fan to meet the terrace kitchen's operational needs. Two new kitchen exhaust hoods were procured by Cornell and installed in the terrace kitchen. Associated exhaust risers were installed up to the roof and connected to a new exhaust fan. New controls and sequence of operations were provided for the control of the exhaust system. The existing kitchen hood controller was reused and modified for use with the new exhaust system. A new VFD was installed in the mechanical room at roof to serve the exhaust fan. Minor electrical relocations and changes were completed in the kitchen as required.

The goal of the commissioning process was to ensure that the Cornell University and the Statler Hotel received systems that operated and performed per the engineer's and architect's intended design and that the owners staff would have the proper training and documents needed for continual maintenance of the building well into the future. All deficient items identified during the commissioning process were documented and provided to the contractors for correction. HEA's constant written and verbal communication with the contractors will help to ensure deficiencies are completed in a timely fashion. 

Project Description

HEA provided mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP) commissioning services for the new 89,000 sf Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) building and chemistry addition project. The building was constructed with multiple laboratory spaces, class rooms, special student manufacturing/engineering development spaces and common areas. HEA was involved in the project through schematic design, design phase reviews and construction phase submittal reviews on the various complex HVAC systems that were installed for this project.

Commissioning included equipment such as: energy recovery units, with laboratory exhaust systems (fume hoods), supply and exhaust terminal units, humidification systems, emergency power systems, domestic hot water generating, distribution systems and lighting controls. As equipment was installed, HEA provided onsite presence in the form of installation inspections and oversaw startup of equipment and systems and balancing/pressure control verification, bringing the project through Functional Performance Testing. 

HEA also provided exterior envelope commissioning procedures, including substructure, superstructure, exterior envelope and roofing construction that protects conditioned and semi-conditioned interior spaces from unconditioned spaces and the exterior environment. Through the commissioning process, HEA provided services that acted as a bridge between the design intent and the final built environment. 

Commissioning services also served to insure the integration of various building envelope components and systems, especially important in dedicated STEM facilities. Finally, HEA provided building envelope commissioning specifications and the commissioning plan to implement the full integration of the complex and varied building systems needed for a complete technology building. 

Project Description

HEA was hired to provide commissioning services for the Heating Plant Phase 2 project at SUNY Binghamton. The central heating plant at the State University of New York (SUNY) campus in Binghamton, NY is a high temperature hot water (HTHW) facility originally built in 1965. The plant received extensive renovations in the later 1980's and early 1990's and in general the facility has been well maintained and is functional and reliable. HEA's services included, but were not limited to, reviewing the design design documents, developing the commissioning plan, documentation of the commissioning process and review/approval of the engineer's systems descriptions. HEA was present for all new equipment start-ups including the electrical shut down and replacement of motor controllers. HEA performed functional testing on all new equipment and existing boilers via the new controller upgrades. 

The following are HEA's recommendations for based on discoveries made during the project:

- Installation of temperature and pressure gauges at sensor locations in order to visually see what is happening out in the field and these gauges will give the plant operators locations to verify accuracy of sensors with a calibrated devise

- HEA discovered through testing that the new RTU providing heating and cooling to the new office spaces had faulty wiring from the factory. HEA notified the contractors and the unit was repaired prior to occupancy

- During the electrical shut down and upgrade, HEA discovered through testing that the generator automatic transfer switch was not properly programmed. If left undiagnosed, the plant would not provide heating during a power outage

HEA provided direction for programming the humidifiers located in the wood chip silo area of the project. Relative Humidity controllers were not originally provided for the project, HEA helped the project team choose the correct controller and provided direction for properly programming the units to operate efficiently. 

Project Description

HEA was contracted by Yale University to provide design-phase commissioning services for the renovation of the University's on-campus Peabody Museum of Natural History, the first major update to the landmark museum in over 93 years. HEA's scope of work will include the commissioning of all mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems and includes the completion of the following LEED requirements: Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite: Fundamental Commissioning and Verification and Credit: Enhanced Commissioning for LEED v4. During the duration of the design phase, HEA will also develop monitoring-based commissioning (MBCx) procedures and identify points to be measured and evaluated to assess performance of the facility's energy and water-consuming systems. 

Project Description

HEA was contracted by Boston College to provide commissioning services for the Carney Hall HVAC Upgrade project. Carney Hall is a four-story, L-shaped office space facility. HEA's scope of work includes: chilled water/heating hot water/steam piping, ducting, air handling units, VAVs, exhaust fans, unit ventilators, re-rated cooling tower, chiller, pumps, control sequences, building automation system, VRF system, fin tube radiation, steam coils and condensate pumps. 

Project Description

Horizon Engineering Associates, LLP (HEA) was contracted by the Pennsylvania Department of General Services to provide construction stage commissioning services for the Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology Manufacturing center project. HEA’s scope of work included pipe/duct testing and commissioning of the following systems: ventilation, cooling, heating hot water, and plumbing, building automation, electrical, fire alarm and fire protection.

Project Description

HEA was engaged by The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) to provide both MEP and Building Envelope Commissioning Services (BECx) for the Brower Student Center project in Ewing, NJ. This project includes a major renovation that will provide a transformative change to the interior and exterior of the building, as well as a 25,000 sf addition. The program includes meeting and event spaces; student spaces; co‐curricular support; lounge / social spaces; and dining in addition to mechanical/circulation/building support. TCNJ was particularly vigilant about ensuring that the BECx is performed by qualified personnel with building envelope experience.

HEA was first engaged during the design phase and continued through the completion of construction and post occupancy. In regards to the BECx process, HEA played a role in ensuring that the systems were designed in accordance with the owner’s requirements. In addition, HEA confirmed that the systems were installed in a manner that met the high expectations of the University.

Project Description

HEA was contracted by the New York-Presbyterian Hospital to perform commissioning services for the Allen Hospital Central Sterilization project. The project was a facility upgrade and renovation that was originally conceived to accommodate the growing requirements for sterilization services and included an MEP upgrade of the existing central sterilization facility to accommodate for new equipment. The upgrades also included the installation of a pre-fabricated high pressure steam boiler plant that provided steam to the new facility in such a manner that allowed for redundancy and did not require a high pressure steam supply or a consistent high pressure operator presence.

HEA was responsible for the commissioning of the facility’s following systems: ductwork, roof top packaged AC unit, VAVs, exhaust fans, electric unit heaters, steam piping, steam boilers, semi-instantaneous hot water heaters, humidifier, building automation, electrical panels, transformers, heat trace, feed water pumps, AC compressor and RO filtration. HEA’s commissioning process included all work required to satisfy the LEED project requirements for EA Prerequisite 1, Fundamental Building Systems Commissioning and EA Credit 3, Enhanced Commissioning.

Project Description

The New York City Department of Design and Construction (NYCDDC) contracted HEA to provide existing building commissioning services for the Manhattan Supreme Court ECM Implementation project in New York, NY. Services being provided include the commissioning of the following systems: electrical, demand control ventilation, chillers, condenser water pumps, cooling tower, and HVAC sensors and controls.

Project Description

HEA was hired by Citadel LLC to provide commissioning services for 350 Park Avenue, a 211,000 sf commercial high-rise building.

Scope of work includes all mechanical, electrical and fire protection systems: 

• Condenser/Chilled water pumps
• VRFs
• CRAC units
• VAVs
• Exhaust fans
• Building management system
• Building automation system
• Electrical panels
• Automatic transfer switch
• Emergency generator 
• Emergency power systems:
  • Automatic transfer switches (ATS) - Witness engine start signals sent to the generator upon loss of the normal source, along with transferring to emergency power. Witness bypass isolation operation and rack out of the transfer switch. 
  • Uninterrupted power systems (UPS) - Witness load bank testing and transient response testing for the different operating modes (bypass mode, static bypass, etc.)Witness battery discharge test. 
  • Static transfer switches (STS) - Witness response testing when switching between preferred and alternate sources.
  • Emergency generator - Perform pull the plug test (allowance to be present during commissioning with base building). Confirmation of circuits on emergency power as intended per engineer’s design, during PTP test.

Project Description

HEA was hired to provide LEED commissioning services for this 52-story tower that will total 780,000 sf. Once completed, it will have 700 rooms of which 240 rooms will be dedicated under the W Hotel flag and 460 rooms under the Element by Westin flag. 

HEA's scope of commissioning services includes the necessary requirements to satisfy the LEED Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning and Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning. Systems to be commissioned include: building automation, heating, ventilating and air conditioning, interior and exterior lighting and controls, emergency lighting, domestic hot water for plumbing efficiencies and visual and audible fire alarm systems. 

Project Description

HEA was contracted to provide commissioning engineer labor to assist with the "Dry Side" process HVAC equipment and controls associated with the Volvo Cars paint shop facility located in Charleston, SC. This 700,000 sf building has four floors where cars are cleaned, heat treated, sanded, sealed and painted. 

HEA is working with the Eisenmann commissioning technicians and controls contractors to demonstrate proficiency in effectively commissioning the "Dry Side" HVAC equipment and controls including: AHUs with exhaust units and the oven heater units.

Commissioning tasks include:

• Verification of control sensor: location, mapping, calibration and operation
• Confirmation of damper: functionality and position set-point
• Confirmation of air flow based on feedback from control and reference points

Project Description

Horizon Engineering Associates, LLP (HEA) was contracted by Group PMX, LLC to provide design phase commissioning services for the Hudson Valley Hospital MRI Replacement project in Cortlandt Manor, New York. HEA’s scope of work includes commissioning of the mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems to ensure all that all systems and equipment are installed and operating according to design intent.

Project Description

The USTA National tennis Center, Inc. contracted HEA to provide commissioning services as per USGBC NC LEED Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems and Energy and Atmosphere Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning for the USTA Louis Armstrong Stadium project in Flushing, NY. Services included reviewing of design documents, shop drawings, commissioning of all mechanical, control systems and balancing verification as well as developing a building systems manual. Throughout the duration of the project, HEA held regular commissioning meetings with the design team, owner, MEP trade firm and controls contractor in order to promote timely responses to major items of concerns. Finally, in accordance to Energy and Atmosphere Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning, a systems manual was provided to the owner to assist in continual preventative maintenance and peak energy efficiency of the building.

Project Description

HEA was hired by the Massachusetts School Building Authority and provided commissioning services for this new high school facility. The project included construction of a completely new school building on the site of the existing school.

In addition to the state-of-the-art classrooms in the new school, the building also features an impressive auditorium, a large media center and a new swimming pool. The building includes many sustainable features and is seeking certification under the Massachusetts Collaborative for High Performing Schools (MA-CHPS) Program.

HEA's scope of work included all mechanical, electrical, fire protection, BMS/controls, plumbing, roofing, data and solar panel systems.

The school Superintendent has reported that the project had very few change orders, with construction costs not exceeding the budget which was allocated. 

Project Description

This project included the construction of two, four-story office buildings (109,362 sf each) and a three-story research & development building (167,378 sf). All three buildings are located on a 32-acre corporate campus in Charlotte, NC. 

HEA was hired to provide fundamental and enhanced commissioning throughout the project schedule, including the design, construction, acceptance and post-construction phases.

HEA's scope of work included the commissioning of Air Handling Units, Terminal Units, Laboratory Exhaust Systems / Exhaust Fans, Building Automation System, Chillers / Cooling Towers, Pumps, Ductwork, Mechanical Piping, Domestic Hot Water Systems Lighting Controls (normal and emergency) and Emergency Generator systems. 

HEA's commissioning services included the necessary requirements to satisfy the LEED Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems and Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning 

Project Description

As part of an umbrella contract with the New York City Department of Design and Construction (DDC), HEA was contracted to assist in bringing the geothermal well system at Queens Botanical Garden (QBG) to full operational capacity. The system consisted of a supply well, two dilution wells and a submersible pump located deep within the supply pumps well water through eight heat pumps and into the two dilution well. The supply pump is controlled by a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) which modulates based on demand.

HEA's commissioning scope included the supply pump, UV filters, and piping associated with the geothermal well system. HEA monitored and evaluated the water systems and treatment programs, which enabled them to maintain reliable control over the geothermal system for the water source heat pump system. HEA performed water testing which allowed to track and trend various water parameters so that corrections to the water treatment program were made before any issues arose.

Project Description

HEA was hired by the New York City Department of Design & Construction to provide LEED commissioning services on all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, boiler and BMS systems at the Kensington Library in Brooklyn, New York. HEA ensured the systems were installed and operated in accordance with the original design intent. HEA satisfied the LEED Energy & Atmosphere (EA) Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of Building Energy Systems and EA Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning. The library achieved LEED Silver certification.

The new Kensington Library was designed with green features to make it environmentally friendly. The building contains reading rooms, a computer lab, circulation and staff support spaces and a multi-purpose community room.

Sustainable features included generous day lighting with a high-performance lighting system that integrated dimming and occupancy controls. This significantly reduced the building's use of electrical lighting. The addition of ground-source heat pumps also reduced the use of fossil fuels. There was also sufficient water flow below grade to support an open loop system, which eliminated noisy cooling equipment from the roof, as well as the on-site emissions associated with conventional mechanical systems. All this made this green building a good neighbor in the residential community.

Project Description

HEA has been providing commissioning services for hundreds of new/remodeled Target stores throughout the county since 2007. The stores consist of various types and sizes ranging from typical Target’s to City Targets, P-Fresh reboots and Super Targets. In addition, HEA has been heavily involved in Target’s end of life HVAC replacement program, serving as an adjunct Owner’s Representative. HEA’s primary objective is for energy consuming systems by ensuring proper installation methods and verifying system performance for energy optimization. The commissioned systems for Target stores include: HVAC (rooftop units, dehumidification units, energy recovery ventilators, air terminal units, split system air conditioners & exhaust fans), refrigeration (walk-in storage freezers & coolers, refrigerated product cases, anti-sweat heating and refrigeration energy management) and lighting (interior controls, exterior controls and occupancy sensors).

Project Description

HEA was hired by Centene Corporation to provide building commissioning services for the Centene Urban Campus Sub-District 1 project, currently under construction in downtown Clayton, Missouri. The project is seeking a LEED Gold certification. 

HEA's scope of work includes design, construction and acceptance phase services to help Centene achieve the LEED certification goals in addition to having their building meet their operation and efficiency objectives.

A list of the systems being commissioned include:

• Air Handling Units
• Energy Recover Units
• Fans (supply, exhaust, pressurization)
• Fan-Powered Terminal Units
• Chillers
• Cooling Towers
• HVAC Pumps
• Lighting Controls
• Emergency Generator
• Domestic Hot Water System
• Fire Alarm and Fire Protection Systems

Project Description

Redford Township contracted HEA to retro-commission the mechanical equipment, controls system and perform an air balancing verification report for the Redford Township Library. The systems and equipment tested included: the heating hot water system and piping (boiler, pumps and reheat coils), the domestic water system and piping (domestic hot water heaters, domestic hot water tank and associated pumps), and the air conditioning and ventilation systems (air handling units, air cooled condensers, humidifiers, fan powered boxes, VAV boxes, unit heaters, cabinet heaters, finned tubes and exhaust fans). All automated control sequences for the equipment above were reviewed through the Building Management System (BMS) as well.

The project was able to bring forward issues that were not addressed at the time of the library's turn over to the owner. In doing so, the library is now able to run more efficiently and reduce the time maintenance spends on the maintaining and operating of the library. An example of this was the issue with AHU-2 running continuously during after hours due to a low ambient room condition. It was found that a fan powered box that serves a section of the future children's library had some internal insulation fall into the unit, therefore preventing appropriate ventilation and heating to the space. After resolving this issue, the space was able to maintain temperature during after hours and provide energy savings. All deficient items found during the commissioning process were documented and corrected to optimize building efficiency and improve the comfort of the occupants. As a result of the commissioning, HEA has estimated the savings for Redford Library to be approximately $5,600 per year.

Project Description

HEA was contracted by Jonathan Rose Companies to provide LEED Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 1 and Enhanced Commissioning Credit 3 for the Brooklyn Academy of Music - Fisher Building. Services included but were not limited to reviewing of design documents, shop drawings, commissioning of all mechanical, control systems and balancing verification, as well as developing a building systems manual.

The goal of the commissioning process was to ensure that Jonathan Rose Companies received a building that operated and performed per the engineer's and architect's intended design; as well as to provide the owner's staff with the training and documents needed for continual maintenance and operation of the building. In an effort to maintain maximum building occupant comfort, as well as maximize energy efficiency, the commissioning process was able to identify and correct many issues before owner turn-over.

All deficient items identified during the commissioning process were documented. As a result, the commissioning process identified over 164 deficiencies.

Overall, the commissioning process was a success due to the deficiencies found and resolved by the construction team. HEA provided Jonathan Rose Companies with a high level of assurance that the mechanical systems were installed and are operating according to design intent, as well as improved the system performance and indoor air quality for the building.

Project Description

William Paterson University contracted Horizon Engineering Associates, LLP (HEA) to provide commissioning services for the College Hall HVAC Project. Services included commissioning of mechanical, control systems and balancing verification. The goal of the commissioning process was to ensure that William Paterson University received a building that operated and performed per the engineer’s and architect’s intended design as well as to provide the owner’s staff with the training and documents needed for continual maintenance and operation of the building well into the future. All deficient items identified during the commissioning process were documented and as a result, over 15 deficiencies were identified.

Project Description

Montgomery County Maryland contracted HEA to provide commissioning services to satisfy LEED Energy & Atmosphere Prerequisite 1 and Enhanced Commissioning Credit 3 for the Olney Community Library renovation project. The library underwent a selective demolition and complete interior renovation. The facility interior features adult, teens and children's book collection, two group study rooms, a 100-seat meeting room, a bridge feature overlooking a landscaped bio-retention pond for stormwater management and several other features for public use.

HEA's scope of work included reviewing design documents, shop drawings, commissioning of all mechanical, control systems and balancing verification, as well as developing a building systems manual. HEA held regular commissioning meetings with the design team, owner, MEP trades, and controls contractor in order to promote timely responses of major items of concern.

HEA was able to identify and correct many issues before owner turn-over. The following are examples of how the commissioning process attributed to improved equipment performance and proper life safety.

• HEA noticed a duct mounted smoke detector located in the relief duct instead of the return ductwork. This issue was communicated to the construction team and the smoke detector is now properly located in the return air ductwork.
• HEA recorded that they 3-way valve for the radiant heating system was not operational. This issue was communicated to the construction team and has since been corrected.

Project Description

Back in 2012, Horizon Engineering Associates, LLP (HEA) was contracted to provide commissioning services for the Golisano Children’s Hospital project, the largest capital project in the University of Rochester’s history. The new 8-story tower has approximately 245,000 sf and contains a two-story atrium, imaging suites, conference centers, operating rooms, neonatal intensive care unit, private patient rooms, resource library and playrooms.

Now completed, HEA provided LEED commissioning services to satisfy the LEED Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems and Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning for the project. Systems commissioned included plumbing, BMS/controls, lighting controls, fan coil units, VAV boxes, electric heaters, AHUs, exhaust fans, snow melt and chilled water pumps.

Project Description

This project added two new buildings (connected via an enclosed walking bridge) with 300,000 sf of laboratory and office space to the Regeneron complex at the Landmark at Eastview in the Town of Mount Pleasant in Westchester County, New York. This project is officially certified LEED Gold.

Project Description

This luxury resort project encompassed 780,000 sf with a construction cost of $73 million. HEA was hired to provide MEP commissioning services for their 390 luxury villas, 10,000 sf lagoon-style pool, beach bar, restaurants, retail and fitness spaces located on 16 acres of Maui’s Kā‘anapali Beach. 

Project Description

HEA was hired by the State of Mississippi to provide building commissioning services including building envelope, through construction administration for the new two-story New Administration Building on the campus of Mississippi Delta Community College (MDCC) located in Moorhead, MS. The building was originally supposed to house a campus bookstore as well, but after careful consideration, taking into account what it would take to reinforce an internal area to support the second floor, they decided it would be more economical to build a standalone retail facility adjacent to the administration building instead. 

HEA's scope of work includes: building management system, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and building envelope systems. Building envelope commissioning services are being modeled on the guidelines set forth by the National Institute of Building Science (NIBS) Guideline 3 in conjunction with ASHRAE Guideline 0 with consideration for the upcoming ASTM E2813: Standard Practice for Building Enclosure Commissioning. 

Project Description

The Chrysler Corp. contracted HEA to provide commissioning services as per USGBC LEED 2009 Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 1 and Enhanced Commissioning Credit 3 for the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant Paint Shop, including a chiller plant serving both the paint shop and body shop.

Services included reviewing of design documents, shop drawings, commissioning of all mechanical, electrical, and control systems, as well as developing a building systems manual. 

Project Description

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, LLP hired HEA to provide building envelope commissioning services for the Miami Central Station (a part of the 235-mile network of rail lines that will connect South Florida to Central Florida). This massive elevated station will sit on various blocks of parking lots between the Metrorail tracks and NW 1st Avenue, connecting to the Government Center station. This facility will serve as a place where trains, buses and shuttles will all meet under one gigantic roof. 

HEA is providing ongoing building enclosure consulting and peer review services for the exterior enclosure systems, which includes duties such as:

• Review of curtain wall, metal panels and extruded aluminum infill screen
• Review of soffit system design and shop drawings
• Review of any glazing impact testing
• Review of visual mock-up drawings and specimens including standalone glass sample reviews, factory inspections
• Site visits and attendance at project meetings as required in New York City and Florida

Project Description

HEA was hired by The Andersons, Inc. to provide commissioning services for the construction of their new headquarters. The facility provides a variety of usages, including open space plan offices, a Tier III data center, commodities trading floor, cafeteria, multi-use training areas and board room. 

Scope of work Included all HVAC&R systems, potable water system, sanitary drainage and sewer system, testing & air balancing and lighting controls. The Tier III data center is conditioned by a chilled water system with redundant pumping, refrigeration and terminal cooling units to provide uninterrupted operation. The chillers are equipped with water side economizers to reduce refrigeration component usage during allowable weather conditions. Data center power system consists of dual redundant UPS with a dual bus distribution. An emergency generator system provides backup power in the event of a utility interruption. The facility is heated and cooled by a variable volume air system in conjunction with perimeter hot water radiant ceiling panels. 

Project Description

HEA was hired to perform testing and balancing services of HVAC-1 and associated VAVs and supply diffusers serving the 1st floor of the 33 Flying Point Road office building complex. This project included the following suites:

• Suite 101 A/B
• Suite 102
• Suite 103
• Suite 104
• Suite 105
• Suite 107
• Lobby
• Bathrooms

HEA's scope of work included:

• Field measure each suite
• Measure and record room air flows
• Balance air systems based on suite requirements and system availability 
• Provide a final balancing report 

Project Description

As part of an $81 million modernization of the St. George Ferry Terminal, HEA was responsible for developing a commissioning plan, assisting in developing the design intent, providing focused reviews of the design, developing commissioning specifications and developing the pre-functional inspection sheets. The project incorporated sustainable design in the upgrade of all mechanical systems throughout the facility. The terminal was the first LEED Certified transportation facility in the country.

Project Description

The George Washington Bridge Bus Station (GWBBS) is located in Upper Manhattan and averages more than 20,000 customers per day. The existing GWBBS totals 294,000 sf including public circulation, retail/commercial space and bus operations. The facility is housed in two separate structures on the east and west sides of Broadway. The west building functions as the bus station while the east building houses a utility zone at street level and monthly public parking on the roof. The project is an adaptive re-use of the existing GWBBS facility and will have a life expectancy of 50 years. This project includes a consolidated bus operations, direct vertical transportation from the street and subway levels and 120,000 sf of retail space.

HEA’s scope of work included all mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. HEA’s services met the necessary requirements to satisfy the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Sustainable Design Guidelines for Energy Environmental Qualities Credits (EEQ)-2 Building Systems Commissioning. To help the building achieve LEED certification, HEA satisfied the requirements necessary for LEED NC: Energy and Atmosphere (EA) Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems and EA Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning.

Project Description

LaGuardia Gateway Partners, LLC contracted HEA to provide commissioning services for various projects related to the LaGuardia Airport Terminal B redevelopment project.

Central Heating and Refrigeration Plant (CHRP): The redevelopment of the Terminal B necessitated the construction of a new CHRP in order to meet the increasing heating and cooling capacity demand of the airport. The facility is an 80,660 sf, four-story multifunctional and critical utility plant that generates and distributes chilled and hot water to the Central Terminal Building and provides remote monitoring and control of the terminal’s HVAC systems. It included specialized mechanical spaces as well as employee facilities (lockers, restrooms and cafeteria accommodating 50 people), offices, training/plan rooms and conference rooms.

Cooling Tower Farm: Four cooling tower cells are being constructed to support the CHRP.

West Parking Garage: A new 1,152,503 sf, 3,000 stall, state of the art parking garage is being built on the west side of the terminal.

Project Description

HEA was hired by the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) to provide commissioning services for the improvements at Logan Airport, Terminal B. Massport is modifying and upgrading Logan Airport to meet airlines’ needs while improving efficiency and security.

The Project is designed to respond to recent mergers of American Airlines and U.S. Airways (now branded as American Airlines). To accommodate the combined operations, Massport is modifying and reconfiguring Terminal B, Pier B. The proposed improvements in this project would consolidate existing security checkpoints into one central location, greatly enhancing efficiency.

The overall purpose of the Terminal B Optimization Project is to:

• Consolidate American Airlines’ operations to Pier B, allowing gates to be located contiguously instead of in two separate locations;  
• Consolidate security checkpoint operations from three to one location, improving safety, throughput, and customer experience;  
• Connect all Terminal B, Pier B gates post security, allowing for greater gate flexibility and enhanced passenger connectivity;  
• Reconfigure Terminal B, Pier B existing ticket counters into one, unified ticketing hall;
• Improve outbound baggage make-up 1  efficiency and flexibility;
• Improve inbound baggage claim devices, improving operational efficiency and flexibility;
• Enhance passenger holdrooms to accommodate existing and anticipated passenger activity levels;
• Improve concession areas to enhance the passenger experience; and
• Optimize gate layout by relocating fuel pits and right-sizing ramp positions.  

Project Description

The two-story Queens District 7 Annex Garage was constructed in 2000. The building functions as a garage and repair shop. The majority of the floor space is dedicated to the storage, cleaning and maintenance of the Department of Sanitation’s trucks, while the remainder contains space for personnel, including offices, locker rooms, storage spaces and a mechanical equipment room. The building is primarily cooled by eight (8)gas-fired absorption chiller modules that supplies chilled water to the air handling units and fan coil units in the personnel areas.

The New York City Department of Design and Construction hired HEA to perform an ASHRAE Level II energy audit and to provide retro-commissioning services at the facility to satisfy the PlaNYC Local Law 87: Energy Audit & Retro-Commissioning of Base Building Systems. HEA provided a benchmark of the building’s energy usage and investigated possible energy conservation measures (ECMs). HEA’s scope of work included energy bill and system design review and analysis, walkthroughs and equipment testing and final reports that included our recommended ECMs, retro-commissioning measures (RCMs) and operation and maintenance measures (OMMs).

Some ECM recommendations by HEA included the following:

• Install demand control ventilation for the heating and ventilating units serving the garage and repair shop spaces.
• Rewire the lighting circuits and install lighting controls in the garage and repair shop spaces. In addition, install occupancy sensors in personnel spaces.
• Retrofit metal halide fixtures to LED fixtures.
• Install rapid garage doors for the 2 main entrance garage doors and reset existing motors for automatic closing for the other 10 garage doors.

Project Description

HEA was contracted to provide commissioning services for the General Motors, Lansing Delta Township Assembly, C1Yx building expansions. This project included the construction of an addition containing several press pits and the installation of a new chiller, cooling tower, pumps and associated controls/modifications to the central power plant. 

The goal of the commissioning process was to ensure that General Motors received a building that operated and performed per the engineer's and architect's intended design, as well as to provide the owner's staff with the training and documents needed for continual maintenance and operation of the building well into the future. 

Systems commissioned include:

• Air-Handling Units
• Exhaust Fans
• Unit Heaters
• Controls
• Lighting Controls
• Chillers
• Cooling Towers
• Pumps
• Supply Fans
• Cold Smoke Purge
• Building Pressurization Controls
• Electrical Distribution 
• Camera System

Project Description

HEA was hired by Wallack Management Co., Inc. to provide existing building commissioning services for The Knickerbocker. The Knickerbocker is an apartment complex for residential condominiums. It is a 21-story, red brick building with 75 apartments.

Major findings include the following:

• All base building and back of house air conditioning unit’s fans, coils, dampers and filters were found to be dirty. This affects the efficiency of the unit and in turn causes the building to use more energy to satisfy its heating and cooling needs.
• Some tenant packaged terminal air conditioners (PTAC) unit steam traps were found failed. This prevented the units from providing heat to the spaces that they served.
• The majority of lighting in the common spaces was found to be 60 W Candelabras and Linear Fluorescent T8s. This type of lighting is out of date and uses more energy than modern fixtures. By implementing lower wattage LED lighting, the building will save electrical energy.

HEA was able to identify numerous energy conservation measures and retro-commissioning measures that, if implemented, would over $9,000 per year in energy costs.

Project Description

Brookfield Properties contracted HEA to provide commissioning services for the Greenpoint Landing G1 project, also known as One Blue Slip. One Blue Slip is a 29 story residential building located in the Greenpoint neighborhood of Brooklyn. The building is approximately 360,000 sf; it is comprised of 359 apartments, and 10,000 square feet of amenities space.  

HEA’s services included, but were not limited to completing LEED Energy and Atmosphere pre-requisite 3 for Fundamental Commissioning and EA credit  3 for Enhanced Commissioning.  Specifically, HEA reviewed Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing (MEP) designs and construction submittals; conducted installation inspections, pre-functional, and functional testing and provided a Systems Manual and Commissioning Report.  

HEA worked with Turner Construction, the sub-contractors and Brookfield Properties through the duration of the project to ensure that the expectations for commissioning requirements were communicated properly; to this end HEA led commissioning meetings periodically at the onset of the project and then on a weekly basis during the functional testing phase.  

The G1 Tower was certified LEED Silver by the USGBC.

Project Description

HEA was hired by Wallack Management Co., Inc. to provide existing building commissioning services for The Knickerbocker. The Knickerbocker is an apartment complex for residential condominiums. It is a 21-story, red brick building with 75 apartments.

Major findings include the following:

• All base building and back of house air conditioning unit’s fans, coils, dampers and filters were found to be dirty. This affects the efficiency of the unit and in turn causes the building to use more energy to satisfy its heating and cooling needs.
• Some tenant packaged terminal air conditioners (PTAC) unit steam traps were found failed. This prevented the units from providing heat to the spaces that they served.
• The majority of lighting in the common spaces was found to be 60 W Candelabras and Linear Fluorescent T8s. This type of lighting is out of date and uses more energy than modern fixtures. By implementing lower wattage LED lighting, the building will save electrical energy.

HEA was able to identify numerous energy conservation measures and retro-commissioning measures that, if implemented, would over $9,000 per year in energy costs.

Project Description

New York University School of Medicine's new biomedical research center won a Best of 2007 – Award of Merit: Higher Education award from New York Construction Magazine. A striking new architectural addition to the medical campus, the facility contains laboratories, conference rooms, classrooms, a common area, and a landscaped courtyard. Specialized research programs range from cancer and cardiovascular biology to genomics and stem cell biology.

Complete commissioning services were performed for the facility, the BSL-3 (biosafety level 3) laboratories, and the vivarium. The scope also included the pressure monitoring systems, special lighting controls, door interlock systems, cagewash and bedding systems, special filter systems, animal racks and cages, special plumbing fixtures, and autoclaves and hoods.

Project Description

HEA is providing commissioning services to support construction of a new Academic and Research Facility for Health Sciences. The project includes a new, five-story building that will consolidate the various departments within the College of Health and Human Services: Nutrition & Food Studies, Global & Community Health, Rehabilitation Science, Environmental Health & Occupation Safety, Social Work, School of Nursing, CHHC Public Clinic, Health Administration and Policy, and College Central Administration. The facility will feature classrooms, teaching labs, simulation labs, nutrition food studies kitchen/teaching lab, unassigned research laboratories (wet and dry), offices, student work areas, conference rooms, University services and a cafe. A separate two story structure will house Health Services’ Public Clinic. The clinic will include exam rooms, a sleep lab and community meeting rooms. This facility plans to achieve LEED Silver certification.

HEA will commission: all HVAC, building automation, steam distribution, emergency power equipment, life safety, electrical power, process water pumping, data/communications, security, domestic water, process instrumentation, lighting controls, daylight dimming, telecommunications, wet/dry pipe sprinklers, irrigation, audio visual, fume hoods, exhaust fans and building envelope. HEA’s building envelope services include review of owner’s requirements, assist the designer of record with the basis of design and review building enclosure construction documents, shop drawings and submittals. HEA will review waterproofing, crystalline waterproofing,  vapor retarders, air barriers, expansion joints, high density laminate exterior siding, exterior doors, aluminum entrances and storefronts, glazed aluminum windows, sheet metal flashing, roofing and joint sealants.

Project Description

The Philadelphia Museum of Art (PMA) contracted HEA to provide commissioning services for the Phase 1 and Phase 2/Core Keystone Project. Phase 1 consisted of the construction of a 50,000 sf addition and renovation, creating loading docks, art storage and handling facilities, as well as mechanical and electrical service spaces. Commissioning services included, but were not limited to, review of design documents, shop drawings, commissioning of mechanical, electrical, and control systems; as well as performance testing and balancing verification.

Phase 2 consisted of design reviews from design documents thru construction documents.

• Reviews consisted of the following:
• Confirm that the documents conform to the OPR/BoD.
• Verify that the systems include all necessary components required for functional testing.
• Verify that performance information is identified, complete and correct.
• Review accessibility of all necessary components.
• Confirm that commissioning work required by all participating parties in the project is accurately reflected in the contract documents.
• Develop recommendations regarding improvements, refinements or operational procedures that may maximize and improve long-term operational performance.
• OPR/BoD Coordination.
• HEA developed the OPR in conjunction with PMA input through a series of meetings prior to this design review.

Project Description

The Sheraton Bal Harbour was demolished in 2007 to make way for the new construction of the 28-story St. Regis Hotel & Residences. The St. Regis brings a new level of luxury to the Miami area with world class concierge service, fine dining, luxury retailers and new condominium homes. With the heightened level of anticipation and expectations, HEA was hired to provide commissioning services for all three glass towers.

The North and South St. Regis Towers feature condominium homes consisting of two and three bedroom units. The Central Tower is mixed-use containing condominiums and hotel rooms. All three towers feature energy consumption reducing technology such as INNCOM's ecoMODE controls, which have been integrated into all rooms' thermostats and lighting controls. This helps to regulate the temperature and lighting levels based on space occupancy. 

HEA started during the design phase and continued to work through post occupancy. As a result of HEA's early participation, the project team was able to identify and correct many issues including the improper rust coating of the smoke exhaust fans and all fan coil units were delivered with the improper voltage ratings. HEA's scope of work encompassed all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire safety, kitchen equipment and building management systems. 

This project was bestowed the Award of Merit in the Best Residential/Hospitality category by the Engineering News Record Southeast's Best Projects competition. 

Project Description

HEA is providing commissioning services to support construction of the Cancer Center Pavilion for Abington- Jefferson Health. The project includes the construction of a two level building. The outpatient center will provide chemotherapy and radiation therapy services. The facility will also feature an oncology pharmacy, gardens, café and a community space for support and therapy groups.

HEA is providing commissioning services necessary to satisfy the LEED Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems and Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning. This includes such Design phase services as Owner Project Requirements (OPR) and Basis of Design (BOD) coordination, development of commissioning specifications, as well as MEP system design reviews. Construction phase verifications and testing included such systems as HVAC, building automation, critical HVAC components and control for on-site pharmacy and critical cooling systems for medical equipment. Commissioning of lighting controls, emergency power systems, humidifiers, UPS, electrical substations, fire alarm and fire protection systems, and the building’s lightning protection system are also included.

HEA is also providing building envelope services including review of OPR, assist the designer of record with the BOD, review building enclosure construction documents, shop drawings and submittals. Factory visits were conducted at the glass manufacturing warehouse to inspect the process. HEA is also reviewing waterproofing, vapor retarders, air barriers, expansion joints, high density laminate exterior siding, exterior doors, aluminum entrances and storefronts, glazed aluminum windows, sheet metal flashing, roofing and joint sealants.

Project Description

The new Pharmacy Research Building was an addition to the existing Skaggs Hall, a world renowned facility that was built in the 1960’s. The new construction allowed for more space, opportunities for laboratory work and united the entire school of pharmacology into one location. The addition included a four-story atrium connecting the existing building to the new building, four levels of open research and open laboratory spaces, one level of office space, a BSL vivarium, site work and utilities installation. About 80% of the space is devoted to research laboratories, animal facilities and office/support space.

To help achieve LEED Gold certification, HEA satisfied the requirements necessary to fulfill LEED NC Energy and Atmosphere (EA) Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems and EA Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning. HEA’s scope of work included commissioning all the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, acoustic, BMS, audiovisual, fire safety, data, vertical transport, elevator systems and building envelope (below-grade waterproofing, under-slab vapor barriers, air barrier systems, vapor retarding systems, drainage planes, glazing systems, wall assemblies, doors, wall penetrations, flashing systems, joint sealants, insulating systems, thermal stops/breaks, roofing systems and roof penetrations) for the facility. HEA provided the commissioning plan, performed pre-functional and functional testing, site inspections, submittal reviews and coordinated training to the staff.

In contrast to similar buildings, this facility was designed to use 79% less domestic water and decrease energy output by 30%. Unique facades were constructed to utilize natural light and conserve electricity. To help with the heat caused by the natural light, shading was installed for the comfort of those in the classrooms and offices.

The State of Utah and the University of Utah are using this project as a pilot program for developing building enclosure commissioning standards for all future projects.

Project Description

This 100,000 sf nursing facility was built to replace an aging nursing home. The interior features living spaces, kitchen areas, an exercise facility, dining areas, common spaces, nursing areas and offices.

HEA was hired to provide testing, adjusting and balancing (TAB) and services for this facility. HEA also performed an assessment of the chilled water distribution and HVAC performance serving patient guest rooms. All systems and devices, air and water, were balanced in accordance to National Environmental Balancing Bureau (NEBB) standard practices with a design/actual deviation of less than 10%. Scope of work included mechanical systems, such as: roof top unit, VAVs, air cooled chillers, exhaust fans, kitchen supply and exhaust fans, fan coil units, make-up air units, boilers, hot and chilled water pumps, hot and chilled water piping and ductwork.

All units were adjusted to fulfill design air flow requirements. A written report of all balancing results was prepared and submitted to Atrium Health upon completion of the TAB process.

Project Description

The ultra-exclusive Liberty National Golf Club is known for its breathtaking view of Manhattan’s skyline and the Statue of Liberty.

HEA was contracted by Fireman Capital Partners to perform functional testing of the mechanical systems at the Clubhouse at Liberty National Golf Course. The facility includes a pro shop, cigar terrace, library and several dining rooms and lounges. The focus of HEA’s scope of work was the inspection of equipment condition, verification of equipment functionality, as well as HEA’s ability to interface with the building management system based upon approved submittals and sequence of operations.

During the process, HEA identified 85 deficiencies that were outstanding and needed immediate attention to return the facility to proper operation. There were also issues with regards to control of humidity in the men’s and women’s spa/locker room areas. HEA ensured that corrective actions were properly executed as per their design sequence of operation.

Upon completion of the commissioning process, HEA was also contracted to verify that the balancing report provided to the owner by a third party was accurate.

Project Description

HEA performed commissioning and sustainable consulting services for the LEED Silver certified $754 million C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital and Von Voigtlander Women’s Hospital. This full service, specialty hospital is consistently ranked one of the best hospitals in the country. It is home to inpatient and outpatient services including the Michigan Congenital Heart Center, Birth Center and Holden Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

HEA’s scope of work included the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire safety, BMS, data, audiovisual, code blue, medical gas equipment, security and emergency power systems. HEA identified and monitored the correction of over 3,800 deficiencies, ranging from chiller sequences not functioning correctly to pipes not being supported properly. The emergency power system includes four 2 MW generators, paralleling gear, 26 automatic transfer switches and 2 manual transfer switches. HEA satisfied the necessary requirements to meet LEED NC: Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems, EA Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning, ID Credit 2: LEED AP and acted as the LEED Consultant on this project.

HEA was fully integrated with the design and construction teams to ensure that all of the building systems operated correctly, ensured proper redundancy, and met code. HEA spearheaded the effort for testing and showing the systems to the various authorities having jurisdiction including the electrical and mechanical inspectors, the State Fire Marshall and the State Health Inspectors. Some of the testing HEA coordinated included: emergency power systems, fire alarm systems, integrated power loss testing and all the interactions between these systems with the HVAC and security systems.

Project Description

HEA was hired by Corning, Inc. to provide existing building evaluation and to develop solutions to fix this 150 year old, beautifully restored, 19th century Old City Hall building that underwent a major renovation in 2001. This three-story museum houses a diverse collection of contemporary and Native American art.

The facility had difficulties maintaining space humidity and temperature setpoints. This affected their ability to have certain collections displayed.

HEA’s pre-evaluation assisted the design team in directing where the best changes to their controls could be made (low cost/no cost) and where mechanical changes were required (capital cost). During the evaluation HEA discovered that many of the issues could be corrected with upgrades made to the controls system and changes in maintenance practices. With these findings the project team separated the project into two phases. The first phase was to upgrade controls and sequence of operations and to repair issues found with the balance of air and water systems. Once completed the second phase began, during the pre-evaluation some equipment was found to be old and too costly to repair. One AHU out of five was replaced and zone humidifiers were replaced with main humidifiers in the AHUs. Also the changes in TAB, lighting load, and controls made the sizing of the equipment obsolete. Equipment was now found to be oversized, the reduction of air, hot water and chilled water usage resulted in significant energy savings and better control of the gallery spaces.

HEA assisted in the design and commissioned systems upgrades and additions. Scope of work included AHUs, chiller, VAVs, reheat coils, cooling towers, hot water boilers, pumps, steam humidification system and BMS controls.

Project Description

Designed by architect Renzo Piano, the Whitney’s building in the Meatpacking District includes approximately 50,000 sf of indoor galleries and 13,000 sf of outdoor exhibition space and terraces facing the High Line.

HEA was contracted by Gardiner & Theobald, Inc. to provide indoor air quality (IAQ) testing services to satisfy both LEED for New Construction Indoor Environmental Quality credit 3.2 (IEQc3.2) Construction IAQ Management Plan – Before Occupancy and to verify that buildings indoor air quality met or exceeded the contaminant levels outlined in the ASHRAE – HVAC Applications: Chapter 21 Museums, Galleries, Archives and Libraries.

HEA was present during construction through occupancy to provide intermittent IAQ sampling to verify the required parameters for LEED sampling would be met. All LEED sampling was completed utilizing active sampling devices, which included evacuated
canisters and particulate sampling pumps. Outside air purging of all spaces was completed prior to IAQ sampling.

All samples for both LEED and ASHRAE were found to be within the desired limits. Due to the continuous construction the Gallery spaces will be under throughout the life of the building, HEA recommended periodic resampling of spaces both prior to construction and opening a new space, and annually to assess the baseline of the changing outside air conditions.

Project Description

Michigan State University hired HEA to commission the new, LEED Silver certified, 49,000 sf, two-story art building in East Lansing, Michigan. The facility is a premier venue with a focus on modern and contemporary art and attracts major exhibitions and collections and serve as a showcase to enrich the educational experience and aesthetic enjoyment of art. It is comprised of collection areas, services/support areas, public areas including displays, art handling and administration/offices.

HEA provided LEED commissioning services for all mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems for the addition. HEA provided the commissioning plan, performed site visits, developed an enhanced equipment installation plan that covered all equipment being commissioned on-site and aided in the approval, scheduling and coordination for the training of the owner’s operating personnel. HEA also satisfied LEED NC Credits: EA Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Cx and EA Credit 3: Enhanced Cx.

Project Description

Duke Farms encompasses over 2,740 acres of farmland and woodlots, nine lakes, and 45 buildings. Duke Farms Foundation transformed the site into a model of environmental stewardship for the 21st century.

HEA provided design assistance, commissioning and maintenance consulting services to help ensure their building systems and horticultural/ecological systems are fully functional and optimized for both new construction and existing buildings. HEA satisfied the requirements necessary to fulfill the LEED Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems and EA Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning services. This project is LEED Registered.

Project Description

The Brooklyn Museum, built in 1895, is the second largest art museum in New York City and one of the largest in the United States. One of the premier art institutions in the world, its permanent collection includes more than one-and-a-half million objects and approximately 500,000 patrons visit the museum each year.

HEA commissioned the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, lighting and fire protection systems in the museum’s new extension. The 14,475 sf, two-story extension includes an upper level that houses an art delivery area/office space and the lower level houses the mechanical equipment that serves the extension. HEA met the requirements set forth to satisfy the LEED Registered certification.

The commissioning process proved to be a great success as the operating energy consumption was drastically minimized. Issues were identified early in the construction process, which reduced costly change orders and potential call backs. 

Project Description

The Utah Legislature approved a new, 155,000 sf building to replace the College of Law’s current 98,000 sf facility. The new building immediately improved the learning environment for College of Law students. The new facility includes classrooms, library, research facility and conference center all within an efficient design that promotes sustainability and energy and water conservation.

HEA was hired to provide commissioning services through the design and construction phases of this project. The scope of work included all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, BMS, fire alarm, fire protection and building envelope systems.

HEA provided services to satisfy the necessary requirements to fulfill LEED NC: Energy and Atmosphere (EA) Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems and EA Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning; which helped to earn this project a LEED Platinum certification  from the U.S. Green Building Council.

Project Description

HEA was hired by George Mason University to provide commissioning services to support construction of a new Academic and Research Facility for Health Sciences on their Fairfax Campus. The project is described as a new five-story building of approximately 165,000 sf located on a five acre site between University Hall and Rogers Hall. The facility will feature classrooms, teaching labs, simulation labs, nutrition food studies kitchen / teaching lab, unassigned research laboratories (wet and dry), offices, student work areas, conference rooms, University services, and a café. A separate two-story structure will house Health Services’ Public Clinic. The clinic will include exam rooms, a sleep lab, and community meeting rooms. The facility plans to achieve a LEED Silver certification.

HEA's scope of work includes commissioning all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, lighting, fire alarm and building envelope systems.

Project Description

The Transit Center allows more than 20,000 daily downtown RTS customers to transfer and wait for all RTS buses indoors - replacing the outdoor lineups along downtown streets. The construction of 30 new bus bays will accommodate up to 100 buses per hour.

Project Description

The Human Ecology Building was constructed at Cornell University’s Ithaca NY Campus for the College of Human Ecology. The building was designed and constructed to replace the program space lost when the former North Martha Van Rensselaer building was demolished in 2005. Additionally the facility addressed the lack of parking facilities in the central campus location.  The new facility is comprised of a three-floor academic/laboratory building, a three-level parking garage, and the double-height commons linking the new facility to the existing MVR 1933 building.

HEA provided commissioning services to achieve the following LEED NC credits: Energy and Atmosphere (EA) Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems, EA Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning, EQ Credit 3.1: IAQ Management Plan (During Construction) and EQ Credit 3.2: IAQ Management Plan (Before Occupancy). HEA’s services met the requirements for the New York State Executive Order (EO) 111 via State University Construction Fund Directive 15H-9. Systems in the scope of work include the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and building envelope. This project has achieved LEED Platinum certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

A highlight of the new Human Ecology Building is the Human Factors lab. The Human Factors Lab provides a temperature and humidity controlled environmental chamber for researching the effects of space comfort on productivity and human response. Adjustable space conditions range from 50F to 90F (+/- 1F  tolerance) and 10% RH to 80% RH (+/- 2% RH tolerance). The lab includes a dedicated HVAC system composed of a custom air handling unit, water cooled chiller, desiccant dehumidifier, clean steam generator with dispersion humidifier and adjustable volume makeup air systems. HEA commissioned all components of the system and documented the lab preformed within the required tolerances to meet the Owner’s requirements.

Throughout the course of the project, HEA identified over 450 deficiency items and helped bridge the gap between owner requirements, building design, and actual installations. Other challenges included construction delays, design changes, and an aggressive construction schedule resulting in HEA completing functional performance testing after the building was fully occupied. Thru increased coordination with the project team, building staff, and occupants, HEA was able to complete functional performance testing with minimal disruptions and negative impacts to the normal use of the building.

Project Description

The new Museum of Mississippi History and the new Mississippi Civil Rights Museum are being constructed side by side next to the William F. Winter Archives and History Building in downtown Jackson, Mississippi. The 112,000 sf Museum of Mississippi History will include the world’s finest collection of rare and prehistoric Mississippi artifacts. The 73,650 sf Civil Rights Museum focuses on the period of 1945–70 and will be the nation’s first state-sponsored civil rights museum. Each museum will be multi-storied with more than 20,000 sf of permanent exhibit space and 3,000 sf of temporary exhibit space.

HEA is the commissioning authority for these new construction projects and will ensure that all building systems work as the design intended. Our services began during the design phase and will continue through to post occupancy. HEA’s scope of work includes the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire safety and building envelope systems.

Project Description

HEA provided LEED commissioning services for two buildings on the Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville (SIUE) campus, the Vadalabene Center and Engineering Building.

The 101,000 sf SIUE Vadalabene Center houses many facilities, including two multipurpose gymnasia, a combat room, a resource center, an exercise physiology lab, a dance studio, a gymnastics room, a swimming pool, racquetball courts, dressing rooms, showers and saunas. HEA commissioned all HVAC, lighting and lighting controls systems.

The 37,000 sf SIUE Engineering Building is a world-class facility and includes classrooms, laboratories, and offices for: civil, computer, computer science, construction, electrical, industrial, manufacturing and mechanical engineering. The lower level houses a wind tunnel, a device that measures the strength of material samples, a cement mixing room, a robotics lab, computer integrated manufacturing equipment, other specialized labs and a 100-seat auditorium. HEA is commissioning all mechanical, electrical. plumbing, building envelope and BMS systems. The building envelope commissioning includes chamber test leakage diagnostics and air barrier breach diagnostics with fog machine.

HEA’s services satisfied LEED Energy and Atmosphere (EA) Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems and EA Credit 3: Enhanced Commissioning.

Project Description

This new laboratory and research based Science & Technology Center is LEED Gold Rated. The advanced facility includes a sophisticated mechanical system design comprised of variable air volume HVAC systems and fume hoods, and a run-around-loop heat recovery system. This facility was designed and tested to BSL-2 standards.

Extensive commissioning has resulted in energy savings projected to be almost 50% greater than a typical laboratory building due to careful selection and design of the HVAC system, electric lighting system and reliance on daylighting. In 2004 this facility was designated as a Department of Energy (DOE) Federal Energy Saver Showcase Facility. Additional efficiency improvements included zoned carbon dioxide sensors, plate and frame exchanger heat recovery and a variable frequency drive chiller.

Project Description

The NY State Supreme Court & Kings County Family Court was developed as a prominent member of the Metrotech Center campus, serving as a mixed-use judicial, government and commercial building. It includes 84 courtrooms, 10 hearing rooms, 750-person jury assembly room, 300-person detention facility, and 250-prisoner internal cell block. Space is also devoted to commercial use and more than a dozen city agencies.

Commissioning included all MEP, fire protection, fire alarm, building management, vertical transport, telecommunications, audiovisual, and security including 500 cameras. Courtrooms are equipped for electronic presentation of evidence, and some have video-appearance capabilities and wireless internet. Due to full-scale commissioning, HEA was able to coordinate the integration of all building systems which helped turn the facility over ahead of schedule.

Project Description

Due to growth at Missouri University of Science & Technology, HEA was contracted for a two-phase project at two residence halls. Retro-commissioning services were provided on the mechanical system of the first floor office area in Residence Hall I, or Residence College. After a year, it was observed that the air handling unit was not performing. HEA performed testing, identified the issues, and made recommendations that resulted in resolution and specified system performance.

Residential College houses 250 residents as well as two large meeting rooms, computer lab and laundry facilities. HEA also provided commissioning services on the mechanical and electrical systems in the new 80,400 square foot Residence Hall II/III. The facility will have four floors with 276 beds in a mix of four-person double semi-suites, and single rooms for resident advisors.

Project Description

Built alongside the existing St. Francis of Assisi Friary, this new LEED-registered, mixed-use rental apartment tower comprises 460 luxury residential units. It rises above a five-story podium providing 41,000 sf of space for St. Francis of Assisi, a new 77,000 sf headquarters for the American Cancer Society, and nearly 5,000 sf of ground-level retail space.

HEA commissioned the mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, and produced a Measurement & Verification Plan. The plan was developed to identify significant changes to any energy consumption throughout the life of the building. This information provided the owner with the capabilities of monitoring energy consuming factors, identifying ways to lower energy and water consumption, thus improving overall functionality. The Plan will ensure the facility will remain as energy efficient in future years as it is when turned over.

Project Description

This LEED Gold certified tower is the nation's first green residential high-rise building and a model of sustainable design and construction principles. It has won numerous industry awards, including the 2004 AIA/COTE Top Ten Green Projects, and a 2004 Excellence in Design Award from Environmental Design and Construction Magazine. HEA served as LEED commissioning authority for all mechanical, electrical, plumbing and life safety systems, and aided with indoor air quality testing.

Amenities include more light, cleaner air, fresher water, roof gardens, natural materials and dramatic energy savings. It uses 35% less energy than conventional buildings and 65% less electricity during peak demand. An onsite wastewater treatment facility and a storm-water reuse system, together with vigilant water conservation strategies, produce a building that consumes 50% less potable water.

Project Description

Riverhouse One Rockefeller Park is a new luxury apartment building that includes 264 residential units and houses retail space, a public library, and space for not-for-profit organizations Poets House and Mercy Corps. The river-facing west wing rises 15 stories above street level; the city-facing east wing rises 13 stories; and the south-facing wing rises 31 stories. The building also includes 350 parking spaces on two below-grade levels.

The goal for the building is to receive a LEED Gold rating from the U.S. Green Building Council. It features a number of sustainable design and construction strategies including a geothermal heat pump system, photovoltaic panels and wind turbines. HEA is providing all commissioning services and is leading the indoor air quality testing in accordance with New York State Green Building Tax Credit requirements.

Project Description

Milton Hershey School is a cost-free, private, coeducational home and school for children from families of low income, limited resources, and social need. Students live in large, comfortable homes with 10 to 14 students in their own age group. A pair of married house-parents oversee each home, providing the structure that children need and take an active interest in their development.

Commissioning services were provided on behalf of the school for the design and construction of Wave III, ten new student homes and Wave IV, nine new student homes, including the full scope of mechanical, electrical, fire protection and plumbing systems. HEA evaluated the installation process, witnessed the proper start-up of all equipment, and performed pre-functional and functional tests on all systems.

Project Description

Among an exclusive class of landmark green residential buildings rising throughout Manhattan in recent years, this luxury apartment complex earned LEED Gold certification. It is considered a model for resource efficiency, environmental balance and green construction, and was awarded the AIA Green Affordable Housing Award for sustainable design and construction.

The many sustainable design elements include green roofs, water conserving fixtures, Energy Star appliances, and efficient lighting occupancy sensors and controls. Blackwater treatment technology, micro-turbine cogeneration, a centralized heating and cooling system and photovoltaic panels promote resource conservation. As the building's commissioning authority HEA performed all LEED commissioning services, and post-occupancy O&M coordination and training.

Project Description

Among this new luxury apartment building's many environmental features is a system that conditions fresh air, exceeding New York City energy efficiency standards by nearly 40%. A natural gas microturbine produces 70 kW of power, or 20% of the base load, while recapturing enough bi-product heat to generate 100% of the domestic hot water. Overall the building lowers peak electric demand by 65%.

The LEED registered building is linked to a nearby black water treatment plant which recycles water from bathrooms and kitchens to re-supply toilets and provide make-up water for the cooling tower. The building also harvests rainwater and can store 10,000 gallons of recycled water for irrigation of the green rooftop garden. HEA performed commissioning services in conjunction with the USGBC LEED rating system, as well as conducted air quality sampling.

Project Description

New 26-story, 357,000 sf luxury apartment building achieved LEED Gold certification. HEA performed commissioning services in conjunction with the USGBC LEED rating system. The LEED commissioning process was tailored to satisfy environmental requirements of the Battery Park City Authority.

The systems supporting the 274 residential units reduce energy use by over 25% beyond New York State Energy Code, providing healthier indoor air quality and offering substantially more natural light than typical residential buildings. Photovoltaic panels can generate 5% of the building's energy and renewable energy. A 60kW microturbine cogeneration system provides 10% of the base building energy and electricity and uses waste heat to heat the hot water.

Project Description

The Strasburg Rail Road features rides aboard an authentic steam locomotive that travels to Paradise, Pennsylvania and back. The museum is filled with engines, traincars, historical photos and displays from the age of the locomotives.

HEA provided commissioning services for the construction phase of the Strasburg Railroad Museum. HEA’s scope of work included all mechanical and electrical systems. Some specialty systems being focused on by HEA included geothermal and chemical feeders.

Project Description

LEED Platinum Certification is being sought from the U.S. Green Building Council for The Chase Building on Park Avenue, owned by JPMorgan Chase. Serving as the commissioning authority for this comprehensive infrastructure improvement project, HEA will accommodate current building occupants as they will remain during the renovation.

The commissioning scope of work includes renovations to the base of the building's infrastructure, amenities spaces, lobby, plaza, executive floors, data center with raised floor spaces, trading floors and all general offices. Systems will include the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, building management, security, and fire safety.

Project Description

CitiMortgage's commercial building consolidated the St. Louis Consumer Finance and Consumer Credit operations into one facility and can house up to 5,000 employees. Retro-commissioning of this project followed successful participation by HEA in addressing and resolving HVAC issues, including an underfloor air distribution system, on behalf of the design-build contractor near the end of construction.

This facility aims to achieve a LEED-EB rating from the U.S. Green Building Council. LEED for Existing Buildings (EB) addresses whole-building cleaning and maintenance issues, recycling programs, exterior maintenance programs, and systems upgrades. It can be applied both to existing buildings seeking LEED certification for the first time and to projects previously certified under LEED for New Construction or Core and Shell.

Project Description

The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center is a not-for-profit research institute with a global vision to improve the human condition. The research facility was designed to increase understanding of basic plant biology, apply new knowledge for the benefit of human nutrition and health, and to improve the sustainability of agriculture worldwide. This facility was designed and tested to BSL-2 standards. Airflow patterns and pressurization were commissioned and the building envelope integrity was tested, leaks were found and resolved.

In addition to building commissioning services, the scope of work was expanded to include oversight of the mechanical design/build contractor, as well as assuming the duties of engineer-of-record for the completion and redesign of the electrical construction documents.

Project Description

Alberici Constructors' new LEED Platinum certified headquarters is the result of transforming a boxy, 50-year-old, metal-covered industrial building into an impressive office structure. The facility uses 60 percent less energy than a comparable building with conventional systems. This project was also named Commercial Project of the Year by Midwest Construction News in its "Best of 2005" awards. HEA's commissioning services satisfied EA Prerequisite 1 and EA Credit 3 of the LEED Rating System.

Several elements were incorporated to achieve the enviable savings, the most dramatic of which is a wind turbine that has become a landmark for motorists. Others include an HVAC system that combines an efficient under-floor air distribution and natural ventilation; solar panels that use solar energy to heat water; efficient boilers and chillers; and location of the central utility plant in the parking garage.

Project Description

The Sofitel New York, a stunning midtown Manhattan hotel, received the 2000 Emporis Best New Skyscraper Award for design and functionality. A contemporary statement in limestone and glass, it boasts 400 luxury guest rooms, eight conference rooms, and a 2,500 sf ballroom.

The commissioning process was so successful that 99% of the hotel's guest rooms were available upon opening for business, and HEA identified more than $200,000 in first-year cost savings related to energy efficiencies and maintenance deficiencies. These savings included approximately $71,000 related to the resolution of piping layout deficiencies; $24,000 related to the resolution of dirty intake air filters; and $10,000 associated with an uninsulated air duct. Most importantly, it took the owner just under two years to recoup the cost of commissioning.

Project Description

Stony Brook University's Center of Excellence in Wireless & Information Technology (CEWIT) is a world leader in innovative research and development. CEWIT is actively involved in fostering regional enterprise and commercialization. The new facility will contain an emerging wireless technologies lab, cyber-security lab, computer networking lab, computational sciences lab, clean rooms, and workforce training rooms.

Since many companies in the New York region are on the leading edge of technical innovation, they are required to make substantial investments in R&D. CEWIT assists by making their services available to large and small companies seeking wireless or IT research and development focusing on three major markets: health care, transportation and mobile/electronic commerce systems. HEA is commissioning all mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection systems at this new facility.

Project Description

Brookhaven National Laboratory's new Research Support Building consolidates frequently visited administrative and support functions into a single location. The facility provides more efficient administrative services to employees and visiting scientists. About 150 employees were relocated to the new building including Human Resources, Badging and a new banking facility.

Commissioning services for the new facility satisfied both the LEED prerequisite and additional point. The scope included the HVAC, central building automation, occupancy sensor lighting controls, steam, electrical power, data and communication, chilled water, and vertical transportation systems.

 

Project Description

Washington University School of Medicine's new state-of-the art Specialized Research Facility - East includes BSL-2 (biosafety level 2) animal laboratories. This facility was originally designed to BSL-3 standards but was modified by the owner to maintain budget. Unique testing procedures included smoke bomb testing to demonstrate the airflow patterns and pressurization airflows, simulated loads in animal holding rooms to verify temperature and humidity sensor accuracy and stability, and electrical receptacle and floor drain flood testing.

There were several key benefits resulting from performing commissioning. The simulation of animal holding room loads confirmed the ability of the mechanical and control system to control and respond to the thermal load. The animal holding rooms' design criteria were also revisited and the airflows and air changes were reduced, lowering energy consumption.

Project Description

The new Ambulatory Care Building at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue has won several awards including the "Best of Projects" by New York Construction News. An integral part of the hospital's major modernization, it offers state-of-the-art facilities for the healthcare institution's patients, staff and visitors, and serves as the new main entrance for the entire hospital complex.

Featuring a 90-foot-tall atrium for the main entrance, the new building contains more than 400 exam rooms, is wired with advanced medical information systems, and houses the new Bellevue Hospital Cancer Center. HEA provided commissioning services on all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, vertical transportation and building management systems during construction of this important facility.

Project Description

The Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine is the largest capital project undertaken in the history of the University of Pennsylvania Health System. It is designed to create an ideal environment for patient-focused care and collaboration among health professionals and will house the health system's Abramson Cancer Center, radiation oncology, cardiovascular medicine, and an outpatient surgical pavilion.

HEA is commissioning authority for the LEED registered facility which will feature a unique glass atrium topping the structure, permitting sunlight to stream to all corners of the facility. In addition, the firm will be providing commissioning services to the Proton Accelerator building, the first-of-its-kind proton therapy center for the treatment of cancer.

Project Description

The University of Michigan's Cardiovascular Center is poised to become a national flagship facility for the treatment of cardiovascular disease. Housed within the facility are ambulatory care clinic modules, non-invasive diagnostic and testing suites, cardiac catheterization laboratories, electrophysiology laboratories, operating rooms, intensive care beds, and office space.

Among HEA's key contributions were a comprehensive review of the facility and operations throughout design of the building and coordination of training for the operations staff. HEA commissioned all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire alarm, oxygen, vacuum, medical air, nurse call and code blue systems. The firm also provided mechanical engineering field services to expedite responses to RFI's and design conflicts.

Project Description

As part of the modernization and expansion of Stony Brook University Hospital, HEA provided commissioning services for this multi-faceted and multi-disciplinary project. The two main elements include renovating and expanding the Emergency Department Make Ready and the Hospital Expansion. HEA also commissioned a two story parking garage and helipad.

Phase II will begin in 2008 once these new additions and expansions are constructed and are operational. This phase will consist of interior renovations and a new permanent emergency department. The project will also include a three-story expansion of existing facilities to accommodate a new Emergency Department and Women & Infants Center, and the expansion and renovation of the hospital's surgical suite and main hospital lobby.

Project Description

Stony Brook University Hospital's new Center for Outpatient Services offers a Cancer Center, Outpatient Imaging Center, and Pain Management Center. Designed for the needs of the community, the facility provides patients who are currently receiving care in Nassau County and New York City with the opportunity to remain in their own community.

HEA provided commissioning services for the entire facility which includes the Carol M. Baldwin Breast Care Center, outpatient medical, surgical and pediatric oncology, and a cancer clinical trials office. The Outpatient Imaging Center includes the latest in MRI, CT and other imaging modalities along with a digital picture archiving communications system. The Pain Management Center offers the comprehensive treatment and management of chronic pain.
 

Project Description

Stony Brook University Hospital's Ambulatory Surgery Center offers a full range of surgical and perioperative facilities. The center includes six operating rooms, two procedure rooms, and 130 beds for pre- and post-operative care. HEA performed extensive commissioning services from initial design through operational training.

The commissioning process resulted in a number of significant benefits to SBUMC. HEA identified nearly $125,000 in annual cost savings through the detection and mitigation of over 150 deficiencies. Moreover, SBUMC realized an immediate return on its investment in commissioning, yielding approximately $83,000 in first-year savings.

Project Description

Fourteen schools were involved in this Detroit Public Schools project. HEA provided commissioning and consulting services to the DPSPMT for the new construction of six early learning centers that serve students from Pre-K to 8th grade, and retro-commissioning and new construction commissioning at eight elementary schools within the district.

Functional performance testing forms and documents were developed for equipment within the mechanical, electrical, fire alarm, and kitchen systems and on-site field engineering support was provided to oversee and coordinate the functional testing. HEA helped ensure that the underfloor air distribution system was installed and working properly saving approximately $52,000 per year or $0.19 per sf in utility costs.

Project Description

Two new three-story, 150,000 sf middle schools were involved in this comprehensive project for Detroit Public Schools. The program consisted of administrative office space, classrooms, a gymnasium, cafeteria, kitchen, media center and mechanical rooms. HEA performed construction phase commissioning of the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, life safety and control systems.

The purpose of commissioning was to inspect each system and component during construction and then functionally test thereafter to ensure that the equipment operated as intended. All deficient items found were documented and corrected to optimize building efficiency and improve the comfort of the occupants. As a result of commissioning, HEA has estimated the savings for Detroit Public Schools to be approximately $64,000 per year.

Project Description

Five high schools were involved in design phase commissioning for the Detroit Public Schools bond program. HEA also performed construction phase commissioning at two of the five, Cass and Central High Schools. The scope included the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, life safety, and control systems in these new and renovated schools consisting of office space, classrooms, gymnasium, cafeteria, kitchen, media center, and mechanical rooms.

The purpose of commissioning was to inspect each system and component during construction and then functionally test thereafter to ensure that the equipment operated as intended. All deficient items found during the commissioning process were documented and corrected to optimize building efficiency and improve the comfort of the occupants.

Project Description

The new Whitmore Lake High School has achieved LEED Silver certification, and was designed for both sustainability and environmental sensitivity. One of the most interesting features is a 590-foot by 490-foot geothermal field of tubes and pipes buried near the school building which transfers heat from the ground to the high school through heat pumps. This system is expected to save the school district a significant amount of utility costs.

HEA provided building commissioning services of all mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection systems throughout the design phase through construction and turnover. The program for the school included classrooms, science laboratories and lecture rooms, a media center, a cafetorium and stage, a two-court gymnasium, an elevated walking and running track, and a six-lane pool.

Project Description

The expansion of Fanny B. Hershey Memorial Hall at The Milton Hershey School nearly doubled the size of the elementary school. The project included classrooms, auditorium, library, cafeteria, gymnasium, swimming pool, and music and health suites. Commissioning resulted in a large number of important savings for the client, including more than $85,913 in annual cost savings through the identification and resolution of 300 deficiencies.

It took The Milton Hershey School less than 2 years to recoup the cost of commissioning. The process led to more efficient operation of the HVAC system, improvement of indoor air quality, and reduced energy consumption. The scope included all mechanical, electrical, fire protection, and plumbing systems, systems installation inspection and performance assessment, and maintenance planning and operations training.

Project Description

The Heavy Engineering Building at Stony Brook University houses a number of teaching programs for the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences. The facility also serves major research programs financed by government and private industry sources. HEA provided commissioning services for a 60,000 sf addition and 112,000 sf renovation.

HEA's scope of services included a detailed analysis of the building operation, functional testing of the mechanical and electrical systems as well as services to test, adjust and balance the airflow and water distribution systems within the building.

Project Description

The LEED Gold certified Integrated Athletic Center at Haverford College has received a 2006 Award of Merit by Mid-Atlantic Construction Magazine and a 2007 Architectural Showcase award by Athletic Business Magazine. The facility includes a dramatic lobby area focused on interactive exhibits and historic displays, a 1,200-seat arena with three courts, and a variety of other recreational, treatment, and support spaces.

HEA's scope included commissioning services for the LEED EA Prerequisite 1 and EA Credit 3, as well as LEED documentation services. The firm performed a number of related tasks including a review and audit of the project manual and drawings. The firm then provided a detailed report on the findings relative to the LEED process, a list of deficiencies, a recovery plan, and an independent audit assessment.

Project Description

HEA was hired by White & Case, LLP to provide commissioning services for the commercial interior fit-out of approximately 440,000 sf over 10 floors of interior space and 17,000 sf of below grade services space at 1221 Avenue of the Americas. The new office space includes a combination of private offices, open area work desks located primarily in the interior areas, amenities floors (i.e., conference rooms), dining and pantries as well as utility and support services areas. 

Scope of work includes mechanical, electrical, fire protection, building management system and leak detection systems. 

Example deficiencies discovered by HEA include:

• Calibration of T-stats and CO2 sensors for office spaces were not as per Design Engineer (D/E) specification requirements. Space temp adjustment from Local T-stat was not found activated for occupant comfort 
• Analog points were not trended to monitor equipment
• Clarification with D/E for airflow during design reviews, minimum CFM requirements for office spaces
• Installation checks on equipment raised issues with regards to tags, insulation of chilled water, condensate line, wire grilles on exhaust fans, T-stat back plate installation, air separator, expansion tank details as per D/E drawings
• HEA noted deficiencies in the Sequence of Operations programmed in the BMS for the VAV, FCU, AHU, exhaust fan units that were rectified to be in line with the D/E specs
• HEA's commissioning experience provided more clarification to the Sequence of Operations for the project

Project Description

Built in 1913, the University of Michigan's Hill Auditorium is known world-wide for its excellent acoustics. The expansion and renovation work completed in this comprehensive project received national recognition by the American Institute of Architects with a 2005 Honor Award for Architecture. The project replaced most of the plumbing, heating, ventilation and electrical distribution systems, provided air conditioning, and introduced a new sprinkler system.

HEA identified $72,452 in cost savings for the client through a substantial reduction in energy inefficiencies. The firm's specific duties included design review, commissioning plan and specification, pre-functional/functional inspection sheets, facilitation of testing procedures, a training regiment, and review of all O&M manuals and as-built documentation.

Project Description

The NYU Langone Health (NYULH) has contracted HEA to provide commissioning
services for the NYULH Brooklyn Infrastructure Upgrades Power Separation project
at 150 55th Street in Brooklyn, NY.

Services that HEA is providing include design review during A/E design efforts
to make sure that 2018 NYU design guidelines are reflected in the drawings and
specifications, verify commissioning for the construction phase is adequately reflected
in the bid documents, verify that applicable equipment and system are installed
properly and receive adequate operational checkout by installing contractors, verify
and document proper performance of equipment and systems, verify that O&M
documentation left on-site is complete and verify that the owner’s operating personnel
are adequately trained.

HEA’s scope of work included the commissioning of the following electrical
equipment/systems: transformers, distribution panel boards, panel boards, ATS and
conductors.

Project Description

Originally completed in 1938, the historic Rackham School of Graduate Studies is one of the most beautiful and impressive of the University of Michigan's buildings. The complex is on a direct line with the University Library, and the area in between is a landscaped parkway known as the Mall. Extensive renovation, restoration, and rehabilitation were performed as part of the project.

The main interior spaces involved in the renovation include a 1,200-seat first-floor auditorium, three second-floor study halls, third-floor gallery spaces and three significant conference spaces, and 240-seat amphitheater on the fourth level. HEA commissioned all mechanical and electrical systems, and provided extensive inspection, verification, and testing, deficiency management, and O&M manuals and training.
 

Project Description

NYU Langone Health (NYULH) has contracted HEA to provide commissioning
services from design phase through close out for the NYULH Environmental
Medicine Old Public Health (OPH) laboratory project located in New York, NY.
This project is a renovation of the OPH building at 341 25th Street to support the
Environmental Medicine lab relocation including infrastructure improvements to the
fire protection, HVAC and electrical systems.

HEA’s commissioning process consisted of documenting confirmation that the
building systems functioned in accordance with the criteria set forth in the project
documents as per the engineer of record and architect’s design to satisfy the owner’s
operational needs and owner’s project requirements. HEA’s scope of work included
the commissioning of the following systems: air handling, fan coil units, fans, split
system air conditioning units, roof top HVAC units, humidifiers, floor control valve
assemblies, dry sprinkler system, fire alarm, lighting controls, electrical generator,
automatic transfer switches, distribution panels, vacuum pumps, vacuum systems,
compressed air systems and CO2 systems.

Project Description

New York-Presbyterian Hospital Queens has contracted HEA to provide commissioning services for the NYPQ Essential Emergency Systems Separation project at 56-45 Main Street in Flushing, NY. 

HEA’s scope of work included the commissioning of the following equipment/systems: fire alarm, distribution boards, electrical panels, automatic transfer switches, exhaust fan and split system. Duties include: review of design basic/intent, develop the commissioning plan and specs tailored to the project, develop project specific commissioning checklists, conduct installation inspections to confirm equipment is installed according to design and manufacturer’s requirements, witness/conduct functional testing performed by the installing contractors, review testing documentation, as-built and operation manual reviews, verify training is complete and consistent with project requirements, provide field observation reports after each field visit, provide updated deficiency logs, attend project meetings, provide systems manual after project completion and provide a final report after project completion.