Article #1502 - COMcheck Web-Based Training Questions - Lighting
This article contains questions asked during the August 18, 2005 live broadcast of the
COMcheck Web-Based Training
session. The original language of the questions and answers has been modified to make them as generic as possible while retaining the applicable specific information.
Will LED lamps be included in COM check in the future?
It will be a while before LEDs are a common overhead or main lighting source. But when they are, they will be included.
During the DEMO you switched from T12 4 lamp fixtures, to T8 2 lamps fixtures. What about lighting levels? Sure we saved watts, but 1/2 lamps, will reduce the lights?
Good question. This was just an example of one option to consider. You would need to ensure that the result of this meets needed light levels.
What if you are doing a remodel of a building? For example the only thing they are going to change out is the interior lighting. Would you use new construction or addition?
COM check does not currently have the capability to show compliance with alterations such as this. This capability is scheduled to be added in October 2005.
I deal with buildings with large power consuming equipment. How come we are only concerned with the lighting loads for energy conservation?
The building energy codes are written specifically for the building shell and the equipment associated with maintaining the space. Functions and associated equipment are not addressed. Other regulations such as EPACT provide equipment efficiency requirements.
Does the lighting take into account task lighting?
Task lighting that is part of the overall lighting design is to be included as part of the overall lighting compliance. Task lights are entered in COM check the same as other overhead lights.
Whole Building or Area Category - Is there an advantage to using one or the other?
Whole building can be simpler. However, space-by-space offers more flexibility to be able to account for some special spaces that might need extra lighting wattage.
For HID and fluorescent lighting, does COM check have predetermined input wattage levels or are manufacturer''s specifications to be used?
COM check has default wattages for commonly used lamp types, but these values are conservatively high. So, it is best to use the manufacturer''s data if available.
What about exterior lighting?
Exterior lighting is currently only addressed in the mandatory requirements. There is no trade-off.
How do you properly enter line voltage track (length of track versus quantity of fixture designed)?
The current requirement in the ASHRAE code is to use the wattage of the fixtures or 30 W/linear ft., whichever is greater.