Common Operational Faults in MEP/HVAC
Heating
- Heating system setbacks (night/weekend reductions) in buildings without 24/7 operation (e.g., offices vs. hotels/hospitals):
- Not implemented at all.
- Insufficiently implemented (setback temperature too high).
- Overheating of indoor spaces (excess heat is often vented out through windows).
- Secondary heating sources: Local electric space heaters are used in addition to the central hot water heating system.
- Simultaneous heating and cooling (clashing systems).
Air Handling Units (AHU)
- Ventilation running unnecessarily:
- Operating in indoor spaces or service areas (e.g., garages) during unoccupied hours.
- Incorrect heat recovery operation: Failure to use bypass or recovery wheels effectively.
- Insufficient maintenance: Clogged filters, malfunctioning dampers, or broken belts.
- Overcooling of indoor spaces.
- Autonomous cooling control: Cooling operates independently of the actual building occupancy or central logic.
