Script: eQUEST consists of a unique hierarchy that users must understand to effectively use equest. In fact, all equest parameters are defined in some sort of hierarchy. For instance, when considering how loads become utility expenses, but in this exercise, we are going to look at constructing the building: Starting with very basic components such as floors, ceilings, etc: these components are assigned to spaces. Spaces correspond to zones (or you could say zones are assigned to spaces) and finally zones are assigned to parent systems If a water loop is present, as in a WSHP, GSHP, or chilled water system, systems are assigned to chilled water loops, which share an assigned plant. In other words, the systems are not actually assigned to the plants, which is in fact, reality. We will discuss implenting plants in a moment One of the common hang-ups in this arrangements is that users may not understand the difference between spaces and zones. Basically, a space is composed of the physical elements of a room: walls, windows, people, equipment, though there are some other parameters such as the room temperature. Zones on the other hand consist of less tangible items such as conditioning requirements, design setpoints, airflows, and throttling ranges. Of course, it is necessary to have a space in order to have a zone (as the zone needs to control something). In fact, if all spaces are assigned to zones, eQUEST will not allow you to create another zone until you have first created a space. Now that we have discussed the aforementioned hierarchy, it is important to know where to edit the relationships between spaces, zones, systems, and plants.

When editing relationships, Zones are a key element, as both spaces and systems are selected at the zone. In order to select these values, select the Air Side HVAC module, and select the appropriate zone. In the first tab of the zone, there are fields to define both the space and the parent system.

Systems and plants are synonymous for packaged units because the system contains the plant information, displayed by selecting the cooling tab, and then selecting the Unitary Power tab.

For non-packaged system types, eQUEST prompts the user to select a water loop.(as illustrated here) In order to change water loop assignments, select the CHW loop by selecting the cooling tab, and editing the field in the Coil Capacity/Control.

Please keep in mind that the assigned water loop must have the appropriate equipment attached to it. To assign equipment to a water loop, select the water-side HVAC module, and create the equipment, such as a chiller. Upon creation, eQUEST prompts the user to select the appropriate loop. If the equipment, exists and a user wishes to switch loops, double click the piece of equipment, and edit the loop assignment under basic specifications. Once all equipment is attached to the loop, the equipment hierarchy is complete

It’s important to know, that nearly all paths in equest operate in a similar fashion. The takeaway from this is that a user must start with the lower level items before a user creates upper level items.