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Life Cycle Cost-Based Filter Operation with David Sellers

Life Cycle Cost-Based Filter Operation
David Sellers, PE
Friday, October 1, 2021
8:00 am – 2:00 pm Pacific time

Typical filter replacements are not often considered for cost saving opportunities by design, operations, and commissioning stakeholders. For one reason, they are relatively low-cost HVAC components. As a result, the energy, labor, and procurement costs associated with optimizing the timing of replacements, and considering options other than lowest first cost, may be overlooked.

This very “green” strategy will deliver savings in many areas including energy, labor, and waste stream. In some institutions, the costs associated with those categories are accrued in different budgets. Thus, it is important to present a holistic view when advocating for the approach so the operating team realizes that the potentially more expensive filters they are buying will save them labor and disposal costs in addition to benefiting the accounting department’s energy budget.

How much savings can be achieved, and how much does that matter? Attend David’s workshop to learn the value of the life-cycle cost approach, how to apply an assessment tool to identify options, and understand filter performance in relation to MERV efficiency ratings.

The class begins with a lecture introducing the topic and explaining the concept, including case study data. David will demonstrate a free tool that allows attendees to perform a best life cycle cost analysis for filters in the HVAC systems they encounter. Attendees will break into workgroups and apply the tool to assess the impact of using a life-cycle cost-based approach. After the breakout sessions, the groups will reconvene to discuss and share their results.
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Learning Objectives

  • Explain the mechanism used to filter air.
  • Describe the value of replacing filters based on a life cycle cost approach.
  • Describe how to apply a best life cycle cost tool to assess a system and identify the best life-cycle cost option.
  • Explain why the costs and performance characteristics of filters can vary significantly if you are comparing filters with identical MERV (efficiency) ratings.