Functional Performance Testing (FTP) in the construction industry tests air and moisture movement through a building’s enclosure. These tests verify that building components are installed correctly and operate as per design. The result confirms that building enclosure is working correctly to avoid future moisture infiltration problems.

CALGreen Code Section 5.410.2.4: Functional performance testing. [N]

Functional performance tests shall demonstrate the correct installation and operation of each component, system and system-to-system interface in accordance with the approved plans and specifications. Functional performance testing reports shall contain information addressing each of the building components tested, the testing methods utilized, and include any readings and adjustments made.

Intent:

Develop and implement the functional performance tests to document, as set forth in the commissioning plan, that all components, equipment, systems and system-to-system interfaces were installed as specified and operate according to the plans and specifications, and are traceable back through the Basis of Design in support of the Owner’s Project Requirements. CALGreen functional performance tests are not intended to replace the Title 24, Part 6, acceptance tests. Acceptance tests, which focus on energy efficiency, can be a part of the broader scope of testing forms and procedures required for CALGreen compliance. Review local ordinances for any applicable requirements.

Note: See Chapter 8 of this guide for forms and templates.

Compliance Method:

Compliance is demonstrated by developing and implementing test procedures for each piece of  commissioned equipment and the interfaces between equipment and systems according to the building-specific commissioning plan. Tests should include verification of proper operation of all equipment features, each part of the sequence of operation, overrides, lockouts, safeties, alarms, occupied and unoccupied modes, loss of normal power, exercising a shutdown, startup, low load through full load (as much as is possible) and back, staging and standby functions, scheduling, energy efficiency strategies and loop tuning.

Elements of acceptable test procedures include the following:

1. Date and party. Identification of the date of the test and the party conducting the test.

2. Signature block. Signature of the designated commissioning lead and the equipment installing contractor attesting that the recorded test results are accurate.

3. Prerequisites. Any conditions or related equipment checkout or testing that needs to be completed before conducting this test.

4. Precautions. Identification of the risks involved to the test team members and the equipment and how to mitigate them.

5. Instrumentation. Listing of the instrumentation and tools necessary to complete the test.

6. Reference. In each procedure item, identifies the source for what is being confirmed (e.g., sequence of operation ID, operating feature, specification requirement, etc.).

7. Test instructions. Step-by-step instructions of how to complete the test, including functions to test and the conditions under which the tests should be performed.

8. Acceptance criteria. Measurable pass/fail criteria for each step of the test, as applicable.

9. Results. Expected system response and space to document the actual response, readings, results and adjustments.

10. Return to normal. Instructions that all systems and equipment are to be returned to their as-found state at the conclusion of the tests.

11. Deficiencies. A list of deficiencies and how they were mitigated.

Enforcement:

Plan intake: Functional performance testing is done at the end of construction and before beneficial occupancy. The inspector should verify compliance with this requirement.

On-site enforcement: The inspector should verify demonstrated compliance during on-site enforcement by:

• Receipt of a copy of completed and signed functional performance tests and corrected deficiencies; or

• Receipt of a form signed by the owner, owner’s representative or commissioning coordinator attesting that the functional performance tests have been completed and any deficiencies corrected.

(Excerpted from ‘Guide to the 2019 California Green Building Standards Code Nonresidential’ – Chapter 5)