HVAC Optimization HVAC design optimization for life-cycle performance is an engineering practice that considers a system’s
energy and maintenance performance and occupant impacts, throughout the life of the system. This practice
can produce overall construction savings of up to 5%, an annual operation savings of over 50%*, as well as
contribute to increased occupant productivity. For most buildings, sustaining HVAC system performance
throughout the life of the system has proved elusive. As such, long-term efficiency and performance must be
addressed at the beginning of a project as part of an integrated, or “whole building”, approach so that the
HVAC design process both includes and optimizes long-term operating and energy performance strategies.
See also WBDG Functional/Operational Branch.