The Benefits of ASHRAE Standard 90.2 for Residential Building Owners and Occupants: Improved IEQ, Resiliency, and Cost Savings

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 90.2 is more than just a set of guidelines for MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) designers; it’s a powerful tool with far-reaching benefits for both residential building owners and occupants. This standard focuses on creating energy-efficient HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, and its impact is particularly beneficial in terms of improved Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ), increased resiliency, and long-term cost savings. Let’s delve into these advantages:

Improved Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)

1. Enhanced Comfort:

ASHRAE Standard 90.2’s emphasis on efficient HVAC systems translates to improved comfort for occupants. The temperature remains stable, and indoor humidity is well-regulated, ensuring a pleasant living environment.

2. Better Air Quality:

Energy-efficient systems designed according to the standard often incorporate advanced air filtration and ventilation technologies. This results in superior indoor air quality, reducing allergens and pollutants that may affect occupants’ health.

3. Reduced Noise Levels:

Modern HVAC systems compliant with the standard are quieter and produce less noise. This translates to a peaceful living environment, where the constant hum of the HVAC system is minimized.

4. Consistency:

With energy-efficient HVAC systems, temperature fluctuations are minimized. The standard ensures that heating and cooling systems maintain a consistent, comfortable temperature throughout the building, irrespective of outdoor weather conditions.

Increased Resiliency

1. Enhanced Durability:

Energy-efficient systems typically require less maintenance, which leads to improved durability. They can withstand wear and tear more effectively, making them a resilient choice for residential buildings.

2. Increased Reliability:

Residential buildings designed with energy-efficient HVAC systems are often more reliable, ensuring that occupants are not inconvenienced by system breakdowns, especially during extreme weather conditions.

3. Climate Adaptation:

The enhanced performance of systems adhering to ASHRAE Standard 90.2 allows residential buildings to be better equipped to handle climate variations. This can be particularly vital in regions susceptible to temperature extremes and weather-related challenges.

4. Energy Resilience:

The standard promotes energy efficiency, which in turn enhances a building’s energy resilience. During power outages or emergencies, efficient systems can operate for longer periods with backup power sources, ensuring occupant safety and comfort.

Long-Term Cost Savings

1. Energy Cost Reduction:

Perhaps one of the most significant advantages for both residential building owners and occupants is the reduction in energy costs. Energy-efficient HVAC systems consume less power, leading to lower utility bills.

2. Maintenance Savings:

Energy-efficient systems generally require less maintenance due to their durability and reliability. This translates to long-term cost savings on repairs and servicing.

3. Increased Property Value:

Residential buildings designed in compliance with ASHRAE Standard 90.2 tend to have a higher market value. This means that building owners can potentially command higher rents and sale prices.

4. Environmental Responsibility:

Owners and occupants of energy-efficient residential buildings can take pride in reducing their carbon footprint. It’s a proactive contribution to environmental sustainability and helps in meeting environmental regulations.

The Role of InnoDez

InnoDez, a leading provider of MEP engineering services, understands the importance of ASHRAE Standard 90.2 in creating comfortable, efficient, and resilient residential buildings. Our expert MEP designers are well-versed in the requirements of this standard and how to implement them effectively.

For residential building owners and occupants who value IEQ, resiliency, and long-term cost savings, partnering with InnoDez ensures that your project meets the highest standards. We can work with you to create a living environment that not only adheres to ASHRAE Standard 90.2 but also goes beyond in enhancing the quality of life.

Contact InnoDez today to learn more about the benefits of ASHRAE Standard 90.2 for residential building owners and occupants, and discover how we can make your project more comfortable, resilient, and cost-effective.