Residential & Multifamily Building Energy Basics: Systems & Optimizations
The training is designed to provide attendees with an overview of residential / multifamily building components and go through the various ways to optimize those systems. The topics covered are practical and benefit those that operate and manage buildings and are looking for ways to reduce costs, improve operations, prolong equipment life cycle, and to help engage occupants on ways they can make the built environment function at optimum levels.
Thu, July 2nd, 2026
1:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Virtual
Learning Objectives
- Understand the main ways in which a building uses energy, how various systems operate and low-cost ways to optimize them.
- Explain the basic systems that make a site function.
- Discuss at a high-level what energy users need when it comes to energy management at the facility / operational / maintenance level.
Course Details
HVAC System Types in Multifamily
Overview of packaged Rooftop Units (RTUs,) split systems, Packaged Terminal Air Conditioners (PTACs), Vertical Air Conditioners (VTACs), boilers, and central chilled/hot water plants.
Where each is typically used (garden-style vs high-rise vs luxury).
Air Distribution and Ventilation
Centralized vs unit-level ventilation strategies.
Importance of outside air control and economizer logic.
Link between infiltration, tenant comfort, and energy loss.
Controls and Thermostat Management
Role of Energy Management Systems (EMS) / Building Automation Systems (BAS) vs stand-alone thermostats.
Scheduling, setbacks, and deadband adjustments.
Common pitfalls (over-tight setpoints, disabled schedules).
Central Plant Optimization
Boiler staging and condensing boiler efficiency (return water temperature).
Chiller part-load efficiency, condenser water reset, and pump VFD use.
Proper sequencing and avoiding “competitive heating and cooling.”
Domestic Hot Water (DHW) Systems
Storage vs instantaneous heaters, central vs in-unit systems.
Recirculation loop control and insulation.
Tenant comfort vs energy waste tradeoffs.
Lighting Systems
Common multifamily lighting (corridors, garages, site lighting).
LED retrofits and controls (occupancy, daylight).
Importance of fixture maintenance and sensor calibration.
Plug and Common-Area Loads
Elevators, laundry, fitness equipment, office spaces.
Standby loads and phantom power.
Contractor awareness of cumulative small loads.
Building Envelope and Infiltration
Window performance, common air leakage paths.
Pressure relationships in multifamily (stack effect, corridor pressurization).
Value of blower door and duct leakage tests.
Maintenance Best Practices
Coil cleaning, filter management, refrigerant charge, and economizer damper checks.
Seasonal equipment inspections.
Operator vigilance as a low-cost energy measure.
Tenant Engagement and Behavior
Thermostat settings, space heaters, window ACs, and lighting usage.
Education and incentives to align tenant behavior with building goals.
Clear communication between management and occupants
PBJ Media Holdings, LLC
Instructor:Andrew Vaillencourt
Course Type:Virtual, Live Instruction
Course Dates:Thursday, July 2, 2026 | 1:00pm – 5:00pm
Registration Deadline:July 1, 2026 at 6:00am
Time Commitment:4 hours
4 PDH | .4 CEU
Record of Completion:Certificate of Completion
All training and certification courses are offered at no cost to participants on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to the time commitment, registrants may not sign up for conflicting courses unless the conflicting course is self-paced. This course is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional, financial, tax, or legal advice. Participation in this course does not establish a professional relationship with the instructor or the DCSEU. Course content is subject to change, and we do not guarantee that it will perfectly match descriptions on our website or social media. We are not responsible for students' access to course materials, required products, or their ability to complete the course due to skill level, commitment, or other factors. No guarantees are made regarding earnings, success, or specific outcomes. Course participants are solely responsible for complying with all applicable laws, and the DCSEU and presenters disclaims any liability for penalties or damages incurred due to non-compliance.