# Performance Specification Gap in Division 23 Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) submittals

> Source: https://deviationcheck.com/divisions/23-hvac/performance-specification-gap/

A measurable performance property in the submittal (rating, capacity, tolerance, efficiency) does not meet what the spec requires.

## What to look for in Division 23 Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)

Key performance parameters in HVAC submittals:
- **Cooling capacity** - tons, MBH, or BTU/hr must meet or exceed spec at stated conditions
- **Heating capacity** - MBH input and output at specified entering conditions
- **SEER / SEER2 / EER / IEER** - efficiency ratings for cooling equipment (must meet or exceed minimum)
- **COP (Coefficient of Performance)** - for heat pumps at specified conditions
- **AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency)** - for boilers and furnaces
- **Airflow (CFM)** at specified external static pressure (ESP)
- **External static pressure capability** - AHUs and fans must meet spec ESP at design CFM
- **Sound ratings** - NC (Noise Criteria) level, sones, or dBA at specified distance
- **AHRI certified capacity** vs catalog/non-certified ratings
- **Minimum outside air percentage** or CFM
- **Refrigerant type** - R-410A vs R-32 vs R-454B (environmental/code compliance)
- **Motor horsepower and efficiency** (NEMA Premium per ASHRAE 90.1)
- **Fan BHP (Brake Horsepower)** at design conditions
- **Water flow rate (GPM)** and pressure drop for coils, chillers, boilers
- **Entering/Leaving water or air temperatures** at design conditions
- **Duct leakage class** (CL 6, CL 3 per SMACNA)
- **Pipe pressure rating** (ANSI class, schedule)
- **Insulation R-value or thickness** per ASHRAE 90.1 Table 6.8.2
- **Filtration efficiency** - MERV rating (MERV 8, 13, 14, 16)

## Severity

Default grade: Blocker. Always a Blocker when the gap touches life-safety or structural performance.