Which of the following are prerequisites for HVAC systems in LEED for Homes?

The requirement that there should be no HVAC systems in the garage is considered a prerequisite for HVAC systems in LEED for Homes. This guideline serves several important purposes related to health and environmental considerations. Garages often accumulate pollutants from vehicles, chemicals, and other sources that can negatively impact indoor air quality if HVAC systems were to draw air from these areas into the living spaces. By excluding HVAC systems from garages, the standard helps ensure that air quality in the home remains healthy and free from contaminants that could be harmful to residents.

The other options, while they may seem relevant, do not reflect the actual prerequisites mandated by LEED for Homes. For instance, the presence of HVAC systems in every room is not a prerequisite; instead, the focus is on ensuring that heating and cooling systems promote energy efficiency and good air quality without compromising occupants’ health. Similarly, while having an energy-efficient model is desirable, it is not a strict requirement for the system to be considered compliant, but rather, it can contribute to achieving credits. Finally, the separation of cooling and heating systems is not a requirement within the LEED framework, as some systems can efficiently provide both functions without them being categorized separately.

Overall, adhering to the guideline of no HVAC systems in the garage is fundamental