Discover the essential elements facility operators need to optimize water consumption, from submetering systems to occupant schedules. Prepare for the USGBC LEED Green Associate Exam with this comprehensive guide.
Table of Contents
Question
Which of the following does a facility operator need in order to optimize water consumption?
A. Submetering systems
B. Schedules of the occupants
C. Operating times of the building
D. Fixture cutsheets of waterless urinals
Answer
To optimize water consumption in a facility, the most important tool for the operator is submetering systems (A).
Explanation
Submetering systems are devices that measure the water consumption of specific building components, such as cooling towers, irrigation systems, process water systems, or tenant spaces. They allow the facility operator to monitor and optimize the water use of different systems and identify any leaks or inefficiencies. Submetering systems are also required for some LEED credits, such as Water Metering and Cooling Tower Water Use.
Submetering allows the operator to track water usage at a granular level, broken down by specific areas, systems, or equipment within the building. This detailed data empowers the operator to:
- Identify areas of high water consumption
- Detect leaks, inefficiencies, and anomalies in water usage patterns
- Benchmark water performance over time
- Pinpoint opportunities for targeted efficiency improvements
- Measure the impact of water conservation measures
While occupant schedules (B) and building operating times (C) provide useful context, they alone are insufficient for optimizing water consumption. Fixture cutsheets for waterless urinals (D) give product-specific information but don’t help with building-wide water tracking and management.
In summary, submetering systems are the key tool that enables facility operators to precisely monitor, analyze, and optimize water usage throughout the building. Leveraging the data from submetering is an essential best practice for reducing water consumption and achieving LEED goals.
USGBC LEED Green Associate certification exam practice question and answer (Q&A) dump with detail explanation and reference available free, helpful to pass the USGBC LEED Green Associate exam and earn USGBC LEED Green Associate certification.