Air

Curve-Appeal

Fresh air is built-in at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. The curving roof is actually the main component of an innovative ventilation system which harnesses natural air movements. It starts by opening louvers on the second floor side of the DLCC which allows cool air from over the Allegheny River to enter the DLCC.

As air heats inside the second floor — Halls ABC — it rises along the curve of the roof and exits through another set of louvers, just like a chimney (remember warm air rises). This natural circulation pattern creates a constant in-flow of fresh air when the weather conditions permit.

In addition to improving air quality, the natural ventilation system also acts as a zero-cost air conditioner. The system is put to full use whenever the outdoor temperature is between forty-five and sixty-four degrees, which covers 25% of the year on average. Increased controls allow rooms to be turned off when unoccupied, making cooling even more efficient for those spaces which need it.

MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) Filtration – The CDC recommends MERV 13 Air Filters as a baseline for high efficiency.  The DLCC utilizes a minimum MERV-13 air filters throughout the building with MERV-14 air filters in our larger air handling units.

Air quality is also a consideration in daily purchases and operations. Many common cleaning products, paints, sealants, and adhesives emit volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, which can impact lung health and cause dizziness and headaches. The DLCC uses only no- or low-VOC emitting materials, and uses green cleaning products to keep chemicals to a minimum. Sensors in each room and throughout the whole building guarantee that indoor air quality remains at an exceptional level.