Feasibility Studies

Feasibility studies compare alternative designs or systems to determine the lowest life cycle cost. In certain situations, it is beneficial for a home or building owner to consider more than one alternative for heating and cooling their building. It is recommended that an engineer prepare a life cycle cost of the building over mechanical equipment lifetime. In addition, the local utilities will be contacted to see if there are rebates or incentives available for the use of energy efficient equipment.

Information required to prepare the feasibility study include:

• Building plans
• Cost of energy or 1-year of power bills for an existing building
• Types of mechanical systems to be compared
• History of maintenance costs (if available) for existing buildings