Lighting
Energy Audit
In early June 2012, Beth Tfiloh began investigating having a thermal study completed of the facility. The initial scope was to evaluate the efficiency of doors and windows in order to develop a replacement plan based on thermal efficiency. Infrared Tools Energy Services was selected to provide a comprehensive analysis of Beth Tfiloh. The facility administration team worked with technicians from Infrared Tools to collect data for a comprehensive building performance audit. The project was completed in September 2012. Cost-effective solutions were implemented almost immediately following the audit. Some of the more significant findings and resolutions are listed below.
Passive Loads Are Not Controlled
Issue: Many classrooms use projection systems as teaching aids. These projectors are using passive loads. These phantom loads add up over long periods of time. Projectors must be unplugged when not in use. Alternatively, smart power strips can be used in order to shut down multiple electric loads more completely. The staff should be trained to turn off items completely whenever possible.
Resolution: Through Crestron software, Beth Tfiloh was able to program an automatic shut down of any Network LCD projector to turn off automatically at 5:00 pm. This ensures that no projector is left on, causing unnecessary electrical loads.
Passive Loads Are Not Controlled
Issue: Many classrooms use projection systems as teaching aids. These projectors are using passive loads. These phantom loads add up over long periods of time. Projectors must be unplugged when not in use. Alternatively, smart power strips can be used in order to shut down multiple electric loads more completely. The staff should be trained to turn off items completely whenever possible.
Resolution: Through Crestron software, Beth Tfiloh was able to program an automatic shut down of any Network LCD projector to turn off automatically at 5:00 pm. This ensures that no projector is left on, causing unnecessary electrical loads.
Air Leakage Through Wall HVAC Unit
Issue: Most of Beth Tfiloh’s HVAC units appeared to be well-sealed. Sealing with insulating foam will minimize air leakage.
Resolution: Beth Tfiloh contracted with our pest control vendor to assist with caulking various leaks that allow air, and potentially pests, into the building. The sealing of these areas has served as both an integrated pest management and insulation repair solution.
Issue: Most of Beth Tfiloh’s HVAC units appeared to be well-sealed. Sealing with insulating foam will minimize air leakage.
Resolution: Beth Tfiloh contracted with our pest control vendor to assist with caulking various leaks that allow air, and potentially pests, into the building. The sealing of these areas has served as both an integrated pest management and insulation repair solution.
Maximize HVAC Operation
Issue: Many facilities have had significant results by managing the ramp up and ramp down of their HVAC systems effectively. In an ideal situation, spaces are never fully conditioned when not necessary. This ideal is best accomplished by developing manual and automated processes that inform the managers and control the operation of the HVAC equipment. The information gathering is just as critical as the operations.
Resolution: Beth Tfiloh has reviewed the HVAC schedules on a weekly basis. Programs have been initiated for start up and shut down times based on school and congregation hours of operation. Additional adjustments are made for scheduled events.
Issue: Many facilities have had significant results by managing the ramp up and ramp down of their HVAC systems effectively. In an ideal situation, spaces are never fully conditioned when not necessary. This ideal is best accomplished by developing manual and automated processes that inform the managers and control the operation of the HVAC equipment. The information gathering is just as critical as the operations.
Resolution: Beth Tfiloh has reviewed the HVAC schedules on a weekly basis. Programs have been initiated for start up and shut down times based on school and congregation hours of operation. Additional adjustments are made for scheduled events.
Integrated Pest Management
An integrated pest management plan strives to eliminate the need for traps and/or chemical treatments. The plan also helps to promote a clean and healthy facility. Our facilities management team has coordinated with our pest control specialist to develop a multifaceted approach to keeping the school pest free and safe.
- All staff are being prepped on food storage procedures: keeping food in sealed containers and keeping these containers away from walls and floors prevents the access of pests to food sources.
- Exterior fencing is being caulked at all joints to prevent insects from building nests within the fence structure.
- Exterior doors are being sealed with industrial weather stripping on the exterior of the door to prevent rodents from accessing the building.
- Air conditioning units have been properly caulked, limiting access of pests.
- Trees and bushes are regularly trimmed back from the building, preventing insects from using them as a bridge to the building.
- All areas around dumpsters are cleaned regularly to minimize food sources that draw pests to the building.
- All downspouts have been extended away from the building.
- All storage rooms have adequate shelving to keep all items a minimum of 7" off the floor.
- Exterior doors are closed when possible to limit access to flying insects.
Paperless Classrooms
Many classrooms have turned to paperless options to avoid all the paper that is handed out to students. The 9th graders have iPads and some teachers airdrop articles and PowerPoints to them to avoid giving out paper.
Recycling
Beth Tfiloh has strengthened their recycling system in the past few years and now has single stream recycling. Bins are in central places in the hallway and in every classroom and office.