Hvac Component Start Up

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Airconditioning) component start-up procedures describe how to start the operation of each component. They specify the methods to be used and the checks that are needed. Start-ups and related measurements are carried out by the contractor. Commissioning provider assists the contractor in the beginning of each start-up process and reviews that no systematic errors are made.

As an example, the following components or systems need to be started:

Dedicated outdoor air units, treated fresh air units and air handling units;
Variable Frequency Drivers (VFD);
Exhaust and supply fans;
Ductwork balancing;
Chillers;
Cooling towers;

Pumps;
Pipework balancing;
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) system;
Heat pump system;
Precision air conditioning units;
Building management system (BMS).

Most of the start-ups also require measurements. The contractor must have sufficient measuring devices to carry on tests (Table below). Accuracy of each measuring device shall be good enough and the measurement range sufficient to the measured level. It is also important to have each measuring device calibrated less than one year ago. The contractor shall incorporate equipment type, accuracy, measurement range and calibration certificate of each measuring device as part of startup reports.

All measurement data shall be recorded using the template specified in the commissioning plan. After the start-up measurements of each equipment or subsystem, the contractor gives all reports for Cx provider, who provides a start-up review report to a client.

Object	Measurement device	Measurement
Air flow rate	Vane anemometer	Velocity in AHU filter section or grille
	Hot wire anemometer	Velocity inside duct
	Pitot tube and manometer	Pressure difference in duct
	Capture hood & manometer	Air flow rate of grille or diffuser
Air velocity	Hot wire anemometer	Velocity of air
Air velocity	Vane anemometer	Velocity of air (>0.5 m/s)
Ductwork leakage	Duct leakage tester	Static pressure inside ductwork
Pressure of air	Pressure manometer	Differential pressure in ductwork or e.g.
	(Barometric) pressure meter	Atmospheric pressure
	Pressure difference data logger	Continuous pressure difference recording
Pressure of water	Hydronic manometer	Differential pressure
Pressure of water	Pressure data logger	Continuous pressure recording
Water flow rate	Hydronic manometer	Pressure across control valve
Water flow rate	Digital flow rate meter	Water flow rate
Temperature	Thermometer	Liquid or air temperature
	Hot wire anemometer	Air temperature (dry bulb)
	Surface temperature meter	Surface temperature
	Infrared temperature meter	Surface temperature
	Thermal imaging camera	Surface temperature
	Sling psychrometer	Wet/dry bulb temperature
	Temperature data logger	Continuous temperature recording
Humidity	Hygrometer	Absolute and relative humidity
	Sling psychrometer	Dew point
	Relative humidity meter	Relative humidity
Indoor air quality	Carbon dioxide meter (NDIR)	CO 2-level of air
	Carbon monoxide meter (NDIR)	CO-level of air
	Particulate meter (gravimetric, light- scattering or beta-attenuation)	Particulate mass concentration and/or particulate count
	Photo-ionization detector (PID)	fVoarrimoaulsd eVhOyCdse like TVOC and
	Electro-chemical sensor	Various gases like SO 2, NO2, O3
	Andersson active air sampler withpetri dish	Total Fungal and Bacterial Count
Refrigeration	Vacuum gauge	Refrigerant system vacuum
	Refrigerant leak detector	Refrigerant leakage
	Refrigeration manifold	Pressure difference in pipe
Filter leak testing	Aerosol photometer and generator	tCoo cnhdietciok nins sotfa ltlhatei oHnEPA filter as well as
Sound	Sound level meter	Sound pressure levels in octave bands,
Fan operation	Tachometer	RPM of rotating objectives
Energy and power	Plug-load meter	Power consumption of device
	Clamp meter	Voltage and current
	Electricity multi-meter	Voltage, current, resistance

HVAC COMMISSIONING GUIDEBOOK  - Maija Virta  ((M.Sc.Eng) is the Founder Director of the Santrupti engineers Pvt Ltd. She has over 30 years of experience in construction and HVAC-industry around the world)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the purpose of HVAC component start-up procedures?

The purpose of HVAC component start-up procedures is to ensure that each component is started safely and efficiently. These procedures outline the methods to be used and the checks that need to be performed to prevent systematic errors and ensure proper operation. By following these procedures, contractors can ensure that HVAC components are started correctly, reducing the risk of equipment damage, energy waste, and safety hazards.

Who is responsible for carrying out HVAC component start-ups and related measurements?

The contractor is responsible for carrying out HVAC component start-ups and related measurements. However, the commissioning provider assists the contractor in the beginning of each start-up process and reviews the process to ensure that no systematic errors are made. This collaborative approach ensures that start-ups are performed correctly and efficiently.

What types of components or systems require start-up procedures?

A wide range of HVAC components and systems require start-up procedures, including dedicated outdoor air units, treated fresh air units, air handling units, chillers, boilers, pumps, and fans. Each of these components has unique start-up requirements, and following established procedures is essential to ensure safe and efficient operation.

What checks should be performed during HVAC component start-ups?

During HVAC component start-ups, various checks should be performed to ensure proper operation. These checks may include verifying electrical connections, checking refrigerant levels, inspecting ductwork and piping, and testing safety devices. The specific checks required will depend on the type of component being started, and contractors should consult the manufacturer’s instructions and relevant industry standards.

What is the role of the commissioning provider in HVAC component start-ups?

The commissioning provider plays a critical role in HVAC component start-ups by assisting the contractor in the beginning of each start-up process and reviewing the process to ensure that no systematic errors are made. The commissioning provider’s expertise helps to identify potential issues and ensures that start-ups are performed correctly, reducing the risk of equipment damage, energy waste, and safety hazards.

What are the consequences of not following HVAC component start-up procedures?

Failing to follow HVAC component start-up procedures can have serious consequences, including equipment damage, energy waste, and safety hazards. Improper start-ups can also lead to reduced equipment lifespan, increased maintenance costs, and decreased system efficiency. By following established start-up procedures, contractors can minimize these risks and ensure safe and efficient operation of HVAC components.

How often should HVAC component start-up procedures be reviewed and updated?

HVAC component start-up procedures should be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure that they remain relevant and effective. This may involve updating procedures to reflect changes in equipment design, new industry standards, or revised safety protocols. Regular review and updating of start-up procedures help to ensure that contractors are equipped to perform start-ups safely and efficiently.