Building Utilities
"Future Architect! Making buildings work - from water supply to electrical systems. Utility systems are the lifeblood of any building!"
ALE Challenge
Building Utilities - making buildings functional!
1. Plumbing and Sanitary
Water Supply System
- Direct: From main, adequate pressure
- Indirect: Tank system (gravity/pump)
- Minimum pressure: 10-15 psi at fixture
- Hot water: 60 deg C recommended
Drainage System
- Soil pipe: Human waste
- Waste pipe: Other liquids
- Vent pipe: Air supply, pressure equalization
- Minimum slope: 2% (1/4 inch per foot)
Septic System
- Septic tank: Primary treatment
- Absorption field: Soil treatment
- Clearances from wells, property lines
2. Electrical Systems
Power Distribution
- Service entrance and metering
- Main distribution panel
- Branch circuits
- Grounding and bonding
Lighting Design
- Lumens (light output)
- Lux/Foot-candle (illuminance)
- Task lighting vs Ambient
- Natural daylighting strategies
3. HVAC Systems
Air Conditioning
- Split type: Individual room units
- Central: Ducted systems, chillers
- VRF/VRV: Variable refrigerant flow
- Cooling load calculation (BTU/TR)
Ventilation
- Natural: Cross ventilation, stack effect
- Mechanical: Fans, air handling units
- Air changes per hour (ACH)
- Indoor air quality standards
ALE Pro Tips - Building Utilities
- - Coordinate MEP early in design
- - Know clearances and service spaces
- - Pipe sizing based on fixture units
- - HVAC zoning for efficiency
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