The revised ACCA 5 QI - 2015 standard recognizes that a quality installation is more than just using high-efficiency products and systems, said the association. The correct design, proper installation, and final testing have a large impact on occupant satisfaction and energy savings. The standard defines a level of performance that, if satisfactorily achieved, serves as an indicator that sound industry practices were followed during the design and equipment installation phases. The core areas that characterize a quality installation are the design aspects, equipment installation aspects, distribution aspects, and system documentation and owner education aspects.

The standard details nationally-recognized minimum criteria for the proper installation of HVAC systems in residential and commercial applications. Its requirements are applicable to the following equipment types:

• Unitary air conditioners, air-source/water-source heat pumps, and geothermal heat pumps;

• Furnaces (gas-fired, oil-fired, electric, and other); and

• Boilers (gas-fired, oil-fired, electric, and other).

Also updated is the Technician’s Guide & Workbook for Quality Installation; it was revised to reflect the changes made in the QI - 2015 standard. The Guide & Workbook is a 'user guide' that supports technicians implementing the ACCA 5 QI standard in the field as well as being a teaching tool that can be used in a classroom environment.

A free copy of ANSI/ACCA 5 QI - 2015 (HVAC Quality Installation Specification) can be downloaded at www.acca.org/standards/quality. Printed copies of the QI standard and the Technician’s Guide & Workbook are sold through the ACCA bookstore at www.acca.org/store.

Publication date: 8/13/2015