By Healthcare Facilities Today

The University of California, Davis' Health & Wellness Center in Davis, Calif., which opened in 2010 to replace an aging 1950s student health center, houses primary care services and specialty services such as acupuncture and neurology, as well as laboratory services and office support areas. Covering over 75,000 square feet, the facility earned LEED-NC Gold in 2012 by incorporating a range of green technologies that help it perform at least 20 percent better than California Energy Code, per university mandate.

One of the strategies that really drives energy efficiency in the facility is the use of chilled beams, says an article in High Performing Buildings. Chilled beams are not typically used in the United States, largely due to lack of familiarity with the technology.

"Chilled beams bring cooling to the zone level, virtually eliminating reheat and allowing the amount of air delivered to be reduced to only what is required for ventilation," says the article. "They also reduce the fan energy associated with heating, cooling and ventilation, resulting in greatly reduced energy needs compared to a traditional HVAC system."

Chilled beams can be especially beneficial in terms of energy efficiency in facilities with high ventilation requirements, as they help separate ventilation from conditioning requirements. Also, chilled beams use warmer water than would be used for dehumidification, so cooling plant performance improves.

The chilled beam system at the Health & Wellness Center allows for benefits beyond direct energy use. The facility's 100 percent dedicated outdoor air system is augmented by the induction characteristics of chilled beams, allowing for high air changes in occupied spaces and preventing stratification. Smaller ducts allowed for a 3-foot shorter facility, saving on envelope materials.  

In addition to the chilled beams, other systems driving sustainability include a 41 percent window to wall ratio for access to natural light, operable windows, a section of vegetative roof, occupancy sensors and water-conserving restroom fixtures.

Read the article.