The primary focus of the MEP design at Lincoln Trail Elementary was to reduce energy consumption through the use of building controls and highly efficient equipment. Fresh air is provided by energy recovery units and VAV boxes, which modulate based on space CO2 sensors with the intent to reduce energy by not over-ventilating the spaces. This approach allowed the energy recovery unit capacities to be reduced and, in turn, provided a lower first cost.
The administration areas used water-cooled VRF systems with dedicated secondary pumps that could be enabled when the rest of the building was unoccupied, such as after-school hours, holidays, and summer breaks. Pumping strategies were used to take advantage of load shifts from large areas such as the gymnasium and cafeteria.
High-efficiency LED lighting systems were installed throughout the facility, with automatic lighting controls that utilize occupancy sensors, automatic time-of-day scheduling, daylight harvesting, and user-adjustable dimming controls. Color-tuning lighting controls improve the learning environment of special needs classrooms on demand. Technology systems provide interactive video displays and local audio enhancement in all classrooms and teaching areas.