As Title 24 energy efficiency standards in California become increasingly rigid, new buildings are more airtight. In order to save energy, modern design standards prevent mechanically cooled and heated air from escaping the building envelope through cracks and crevices. Coupled with this, traditional HVAC systems turn on and off throughout the day rather than operate continuously. As a consequence, indoor spaces can suffer from a lack of adequate air flow and replacement. This causes the entrapment of moisture, dust, and other pollutants inside. Not only does this pose potential health issues, it also creates discomfort. One solution to this is the installation of a Dedicated Outdoor Air System (DOAS), an energy efficient compliment to the HVAC unit that takes fresh outside air, filters and dehumidifies it, then dispenses it directly into units and rooms.
Central HVAC systems heat in the winter and cool in the summer, allowing for modulated indoor climate. However, they often times do not efficiently ventilate buildings and each individual room may see significant variations in temperature, humidity, and comfort. Because ASHRAE Standard 62.1 requires that individual rooms achieve pre-defined indoor air quality metrics, the result is a system wide increase in ventilation intake. In contrast, a DOAS system directs outdoor air to individual rooms. Central HVAC systems also over-ventilate. The central system brings in outside air through a single channel, and distributes it to the different rooms. Since each room must meet a minimum ventilation standard, the centralized system must operate at a level that every last room meets this standard. As a result, some rooms are over-ventilated. On the contrary, a DOAS system directly ventilates each individual room, and is designed for the unique requirements of each space. This means no over sizing, and tailor-made comfort.
DOAS systems reduce energy use because they lower the amount of outdoor air needing conditioning when compared to conventional HVAC systems. Several studies have been undertaken to quantify the energy and cost savings of installing a DOAS system. One study looked at how a parallel system (DOAS in addition to central HVAC) compared to a single system (centralized HVAC alone) when applied to large retail stores in Dallas, St. Louis, Washington DC, and New Orleans. On average, the parallel system reduced annual energy consumption by between 14% and 17%, and reduced the needed equipment capacity by between 12% and 23%. Studying the effects in different geographies, where temperature and humidity levels vary greatly, eliminated the possibility that the savings could only be achieved in very specific conditions. Another study conducted in Pennsylvania found a 42% reduction in energy use for a 3,000 square foot office facility. A third study that looked at new U.S. commercial buildings found that the parallel DOAS system saved energy compared to the single system to the magnitude of between 21% and 38%.
In a parallel system where the temperature control is decoupled from ventilation, Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) targets can be more readily met. DOAS reduces indoor pollution because contaminants are not transferred readily between rooms, as is the case with centralized HVAC. Studies have proven this. One such study investigated a school district in Georgia, where five schools utilized DOAS and five schools utilized a traditional system. The study found that schools with the traditional HVAC systems had higher levels of total volatile organic compounds, CO2, and formaldehyde, primarily as a result of inadequate fresh outdoor air being circulated throughout the facilities. In comparison, the indoor air of the DOAS equipped schools was less contaminated and additionally met humidity targets. Perhaps most significant, the schools using DOAS had higher rates of student comfort and less missed days. This confirms previous studies that have shown that higher indoor ventilation rates reduce sinus infections, respiratory conditions, and a host of other maladies collectively termed “sick building syndrome”. A study investigating this found that 20 out of 27 buildings had significantly fewer instances of sick building syndrome when ventilation rates of fresh outdoor air were increased.
DOAS systems are a good fit for buildings requiring high indoor air quality and strict energy efficiency standards, as well as those located in extreme climates. In addition to the advantages discussed above, DOAS systems can reduce operating costs, contribute towards a building’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification and allow for independent control of space temperature. However, they often times carry a higher initial cost and may not be a perfect fit for all building types and scenarios. For this reason, it is important to work with your MEP project engineers to evaluate the costs and benefits of a DOAS system for your facility. They will determine the best design strategy to ensure that your building’s heating, cooling and ventilation solution is both code compliant and provides sufficient ventilation to deliver comfort and health for occupants. 120 Degreez Engineering has designed energy saving DOAS systems for commercial, industrial, and residential buildings in California. We are experienced in the local codes and technical nuances that come with delivering fresh air to every room, even in the most complex building layouts.
In partnership with Oakes Architects, 120 Degreez designed a comprehensive electrical system with high-efficiency lighting and energy-saving controls to align with California’s updated energy efficiency standards. The multi-use complex also required extensive utility coordination and planning for the future installation of solar panels.
In partnership with Oakes Architects, 120 Degreez designed a comprehensive electrical system with high-efficiency lighting and energy-saving controls to align with California’s updated energy efficiency standards. The multi-use complex also required extensive utility coordination and planning for the future installation of solar panels.
In partnership with AO Architects, 120 Degreez provided full MEP services for an outpatient OSHPAD 3 clinic building and parking structure. Our services included BIM and documentation for schematics, design, and construction issuing.
In partnership with San Diego Gas and Electric, 120 Degreez Engineering was selected to evaluate the system design and install of a 30-megawatt hour battery energy storage system. Our team peer-reviewed the design, completed field assessments, and followed up with on-site code enforcement. We also coordinated with Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and TUV during the construction, installation, and commissioning of the system.
On behalf of SWD Urethane, 120 Degreez Engineering was hired to provide a study of required classified hazardous locations at the facility. Drawing on our extensive experience, we were able to reduce the extent of classification and reduce installation costs for the owner.
In partnership with APG Process, we provided electrical engineering design and consultation services for a process and automation system for their a 385,000 square foot processing facility.
In partnership with Lee Olson and Marc Shen, this cannabis grow facility also required MEP engineering for a kitchen, lab, and retail outlet.
SERVICE
MEP
On behalf of 253 Farmacy, our team created custom MEP designs to engineer a sustainable vertical growing environment in a 25,000 square foot building. Our systems control humidity, temperature, and light intensity 24 hours a day, which helped the client exceed crop growth expectations and achieve profitability in the first year.
SERVICE
MEP
In collaboration with Sudberry and AO Architects, 120 Degreez provided MEP design services for the block-6 Civita project in Mission Valley, San Diego, California. The scope of our work encompassed Construction Administration and BIM services for this upscale mixed-use community, renowned for its vibrant ambiance and seamless integration of residences, village shops, and businesses amid parklands, open spaces, and pedestrian-friendly streets and walkways.
The project includes an extensive amenities and parking structure, offering 972+ stalls, all of which will be Naturally ventilated. With a total area exceeding 340,000 square feet for the parking structure and an additional 20,000 square feet for other facilities, the development aims to cater to the diverse needs of its residents and visitors.
Furthermore, the project integrates retail spaces, featuring approximately 23,000 square feet designated for general retail and an additional 25,000 square feet allocated for a market, contributing to the community’s vibrancy and providing essential services to its inhabitants.
SERVICE
MEP
120 Degreez collaborated with Sudberry and AO Architects to provide MEP design services for the block-4 Civita project in Mission Valley, San Diego, California. The scope of 120 Degreez’s work encompassed Construction Administration and BIM services for this upscale mixed-use community. Here, residences, village shops, and businesses blend harmoniously with parklands and pedestrian-friendly streets.
The project features a six-story residential building and a two-level parking structure. The residential building boasts over 213 units, divided into three estimated base unit types. Additionally, the development includes amenities and a parking facility with more than 516 stalls. Both the residential building and the parking structure will be mechanically ventilated. The total area, spanning approximately 122,000 square feet, includes the lobby, amenities, and parking structure.
Moreover, the project integrates retail spaces, with around 13,808 square feet designated for general retail and an additional 9,968 square feet allocated for food and beverage outlets.
SERVICE
MEP
AO Architects, in collaboration with Chipotle, has chosen 120 Degreez Engineering to deliver MEP design services for a nationwide retail store.
INDUSTRY
Retail
SERVICE
MEP
Nadel Architects, in collaboration with Arc’teryx, has chosen 120 Degreez Engineering to deliver MEP design services for a nationwide retail store spanning approximately 4,000 square feet.
INDUSTRY
Retail
SERVICE
MEP
Designed by TCA Architects, this towering edifice is a design endeavor boasting 242 residential units situated atop three levels of subterranean parking, complemented by rooftop amenities. Spanning a 1.7-acre plot, the development comprises seven 8-story mixed-use apartment buildings. Besides the usual hurdles associated with high-rise construction, this project navigates the additional complexity of being located within a Methane Zone designated by the City of Los Angeles. As such, stringent requirements must be met to ensure the rooftop amenities align with the high-rise category standards.
AO Architects, in collaboration with Westar Associates, chose 120 Degreez Engineering to deliver MEP design services for a collection of 14 buildings spanning 175,000 square feet in Rancho Mission Viejo, California. This complex will host a new supermarket, a 35,000 square foot fitness center, various restaurants and retail outlets, a daycare facility, common areas/parks, a business park, as well as a convenience store and gas station complete with a carwash. Designed as a mixed-use village catering to all age groups, the project is centered around a meticulously planned 1+ acre park, serving as a community amenity and focal gathering point.
INDUSTRY
Retail
In partnership with AO Architects, 120 Degreez provided full MEP services for an Phase 3 Westfield University Town Center. Our services included BIM and documentation for schematics, design, and construction issuing.
CLIENT
Westfield
INDUSTRY
Retail
From Noble 33, the creators and visionaries behind TocaMadera, Casa Madera and Tocaya Organica, comes the latestconcept that will revolutionize the hospitality and cannabisindustries: Villa Noble. Villa Noble, the noblest of houses, is a private member’s-only cannabis club located in the heart of West Hollywood. The brand is derived from the 1930’s prohibition era and boasts nearly 35,000SF of indoor and outdoor space inclusive of: a flagship modern Mediterranean restaurant, a lush rooftop lounge and infinity pool, an expansive allday cannabis consumption lounge and live music venue, a VIP library, a 3-meal per day cannabis retail cafe, and a myriad of members-only amenities.
In partnership with Andmore, 120 Degreez provided MEP consulting and engineering for a six-story building, which included a covered pool lounge on the third level.
In partnership with Sudberry Property and Architect Orange, we engineered amenities and a mechanically ventilated parking structure above that wraps around the residential building.
In partnership with Togawa Smith Martin Inc., our team provided full MEP services and designed a custom HVAC system to work around limited ceiling heights and many other unique engineering challenges.
120 Degreez collaborated with Fenway and AO Architects to provide MEP design services for the Marea Village project in Encinitas, California. Their contributions extended to Construction Administration and BIM services for this sophisticated, vibrant mixed-use community. Here, residences, village shops, and businesses harmoniously blend with open-air retail space, a network of pedestrian-friendly streets and walkways, and stunning ocean panoramas. Positioned at 1900 and 1950 North Coast Highway 101 in the Leucadia community, the project comprises 94 apartment units, 34 hotel units, 18,261 square feet of non-residential space, a two-level underground parking facility, and additional surface parking. Site enhancements encompass BBQ and dining areas, street furniture, benches, and peaceful open spaces. With its coveted spot along the Pacific coast, the project provides unparalleled ocean views.
SERVICE
MEP
120 Degreez, in collaboration with Sudberry and AO Architects, delivered MEP design services for the block-6 Civita project in Mission Valley, San Diego, California. The scope of work for 120 Degreez encompassed Construction Administration and BIM services for this upscale mixed-use community, known for its vibrant atmosphere and harmonious integration of residences, village shops, and businesses amidst parklands, open spaces, and pedestrian-friendly streets and walkways.
The project entails a five-story hotel building and a parking lot designed to accommodate the hotel, featuring one level of underground structure. With an estimated 139 keys, the hotel stands as a focal point within the community. Additionally, the development includes amenities and a parking structure with over 139 stalls, all of which will be mechanically ventilated. The total area spans approximately 40,000 square feet for the parking structure and 90,000 square feet for the lobby and amenities.
Furthermore, the project incorporates retail spaces, with approximately 6,746 square feet allocated for general retail and an additional 2,814 square feet designated for food and beverage outlets, further enhancing the community’s appeal and offering convenience to residents and visitors alike.
In partnership with Architects Orange, we developed up-to-date electrical systems to renovate and reposition the outdated 1960s building while also preserving its historic integrity.
120 Degreez Engineering collaborated with Carmel Partners and Carrier Johnson + CULTURE on this 435 Unit, 8-story multi-family facility at 6th Avenue in San Diego, California. The scope of work 120 Degreez provided included MEP and Construction Administration. The project design consisted of 5 levels of Type 3 construction over a podium deck. Unique features of this facility included extended-stay hotel services in addition to traditional apartment units. This project also presented challenges due to the proximity of property lines which required the electrical utilities located within the facility’s footprint.
SERVICE
MEP
AO Architects, in collaboration with Penera Bread, has chosen 120 Degreez Engineering to deliver MEP design services for a nationwide retail store.
SERVICE
MEP
SERVICE
MEP
Nadel Architects, partnering with Safeway grocery, selected 120 Degreez Engineering to provide MEP design services for a grocery store covering approximately 50,000 square feet in Elk Grove, California.
INDUSTRY
Commercial
CLIENT
City of Scottsdale
INDUSTRY
Commercial
On behalf of the owners of City Square and its numerous tenants, 120 Degreez provided electrical and construction management for the replacement an aging switch gear in this high-rise facility. Our expert staff successfully resolved the city’s regulatory mandates in our client’s favor. By their estimation, our services saved the client more than a million dollars in installation and construction costs. Plus, they were able to retain a significant amount of leasable space that would have been lost under the city’s mandate.
CLIENT
City Square
INDUSTRY
Commercial
CLIENT
City of Phoenix
INDUSTRY
Commercial
On behalf of the City of Hawthorne, 120 Degreez provided full MEP design and created an artificial lighting system that is both energy efficient and designed to enhance emotional wellbeing. The custom lighting design extends into every space, includeing pedestrian walkways and outdoor parking.
CLIENT
City of Hawthorne
INDUSTRY
Commercial
SERVICE
MEP
In partnership with Oakes Architects, 120 Degreez designed a comprehensive electrical system with high-efficiency lighting and energy-saving controls to align with California’s updated energy efficiency standards. The multi-use complex also required extensive utility coordination and planning for the future installation of solar panels.
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