In the News

The adoption of the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) brings important updates that will influence building design, system choices, and overall project costs. These changes focus on greater energy efficiency, smarter controls, and long-term performance improvements. Understanding these requirements early in the planning process is critical to aligning design solutions with your project goals.

Here are the key areas where the IECC Code updates will have the most impact:

Power, Lighting and HVAC Controls

• Interior and exterior lighting power allowances have been reduced, requiring more efficient fixture selections and careful design strategies.
• Automatic shutoff and occupancy-based lighting controls are now required in more space types, such as data centers, medical supply rooms, and laundry areas.
• Increased daylight zones will impact most rooms with windows, and those lights will automatically dim and prevent user control over brightness.
• HVAC space thermostats must now provide independently adjustable heating and cooling setpoints. These setpoints can be independently adjusted by the end user as long as they maintain the minimum deadband which can now be a low as 1°F.

Mechanical and Domestic Water Systems

• High-efficiency condensing boilers are becoming standard, while less efficient models are being phased out.
• New rules limit how aggressively spaces can be humidified or dehumidified, with exceptions for areas requiring strict humidity control, such as museums and hospitals.
• Hot water circulation pumps serving multiple zones will now require self-actuating thermostatic balancing valves and shutting off the pump to prevent over pumping to zones that aren’t calling for hot water.
• Relief fans will be required more frequently to prevent building over-pressurization during unit economizer mode, replacing reliance solely on barometric or motorized dampers.

What This Means for You
These changes may introduce added upfront costs, but they also deliver lower long-term operating expenses, reduced environmental impact, and more reliable building performance over time. Even smaller renovations are more likely to fall under new code requirements, making it essential to plan ahead. Balanced solutions will address IECC requirements while still limiting maintenance implications for staff and budget.

At O’Connell Robertson, our mission is to create environments that enrich communities and support long-term success. That means listening closely to your needs, understanding your goals, and aligning code requirements with the vision you have for your facility. By anticipating the impacts of the 2024 IECC and integrating solutions early, we help you manage budgets, navigate complexity, and achieve energy-efficient, future-ready facilities that truly serve your community.