Key Ontario HVAC Code Considerations for Supermarkets and Residential Buildings

Relevant Ontario Building Code Requirements

Ontario Building Code Part 6

Part 6 of the OBC outlines requirements for HVAC systems in buildings, including (Ontario, 2024). Ventilation standards emphasize for fresh air intake, airflow rates, and exhaust, ensuring air quality in enclosed public spaces like supermarkets and in multi-unit residential buildings. Filtration standards emphasize that filters must meet MERV ratings as prescribed for various settings (supermarkets typically require higher MERV ratings for air quality).Energy efficiency emphasize that economizer and heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) are often recommended or required for energy efficiency and are included where applicable.

Supplementary Ontario-Specific Standards

ASHRAE 62.1 and ASHRAE 90.1 are referenced in Ontario's HVAC guidelines which inform that where ventilation and efficiency requirements follow ASHRAE with slight modifications specific to Ontario’s climate. Economizers, where applicable, must operate to Ontario’s climate conditions for optimal seasonal energy savings (ASHRAE, n.d.)

Ontario Mechanical Licensing and Standards (TSSA):

It informs that compliance with TSSA guidelines is mandatory for certain mechanical equipment installations in Ontario, ensuring the safety and efficiency of HVAC equipment installations, including inspections and regular maintenance protocols.

Updated Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) with Ontario Code Standards

Part 1: Supermarket HVAC System with Ontario Standards

Diagram Components and Symbols (with Ontario Code Compliance)

Supply Air Unit (SAU)

The main air-handling unit must be compliant with OBC Part 6 for public areas. Location & Ventilation Requirements, These aspects are place near the fresh air intake, ideally with MERV 13 or higher filters to meet Ontario’s standards for air quality in public spaces. Economizer, Ontario code suggests using economizers to reduce energy consumption by up to 30% during moderate outside temperature days. Thus the buildings follow these requirements (Canada Green Building Council, n.d.)

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