Revised 2.0_127EAX26Q0106 QA1.docx

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Replacement of Air Conditioning Units in Nematology Lab
Solicitation number
127EAX26Q0106
Issued by

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This is a Questions and Answers document for Solicitation 127EAX26Q0106, a Request for Quotation issued by the Department of Agriculture Forest Service for replacement of air conditioning units at the Tropical Plant Genetic Resources and Disease Research Unit (TPGRDRU) in Hilo, Hawaii. The project involves removing eight existing AC units (six to be replaced with new equipment, two to be permanently sealed), installing four government-furnished window-type LG wall units (Model LW1223HRSM, 12,200 BTU, 230V LCDI plug, dimensions 27"-39"W x 16"H), and installing one contractor-furnished 36,000-BTU cooling-only ductless two-head mini-split system (220V) with a concrete foundation. Existing units range from 18"x15" to 26"x17" cutout dimensions with varying receptacle requirements (20A-30A, 125V-250V). The concrete foundation must meet minimum 3,000 PSI strength, 4-inch thickness, extend 6 inches beyond unit footprint, include 4 inches of compacted base coarse aggregate, welded wire mesh reinforcement, and be elevated 3-4 inches above finished grade with corrosion-resistant mechanical anchoring.

Performance completion is 60 calendar days after Notice to Proceed, with the overall contract period running September 30, 2026 through February 28, 2027. Work must be performed between 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. facility hours with no off-hours work permitted. All permitting responsibility falls to the contractor, with no permits currently anticipated. Contractor licensing must include a Hawaii C-52 license (prime or subcontractor) for HVAC work and a Hawaii C-13 license for electrical work. Bid guarantees are required if the offer exceeds $35,000 (20% of offer amount), and performance and payment bonds of 20% are required. Certified payroll submissions are mandatory under the Davis-Bacon Act wage determination (HI20260001, Modification 3). The site visit was scheduled for Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. HDT at 928 Stainback Highway, Hilo, Hawaii. This is a Total Small Business Set-Aside with a small business size standard of $19 million under NAICS code 238220 (Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning Contractors).

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Other files

File Type Posted
127EAX26Q0106 0002.pdf PDF
127EAX26Q0106 QA3.docx DOCX document
Addendum_Statement of Work.docx DOCX document
127EAX26Q0106 QA2.docx DOCX document
127EAX26Q0106 0001.pdf PDF
127EAX26Q0106.pdf PDF
Attachment 1 - Statement of Work.docx DOCX document
Attachment 2 - Wage Determination.pdf PDF

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127EAX26Q0106 Replacement of AC Units in Nematology Lab Q&A #1

1. Will there be a site visit scheduled?

A: A site visit for Tuesday 9/15/2026 @1000 HDT Tropical Plant Genetic Resources and Disease Research Unit (TPGRDRU) at 928 Stainback Highway, Hilo, Hawaii.

Existing and Government-Furnished Equipment:

Could you please provide the make, model, dimensions, BTU capacity, voltage/amperage, and photos/nameplate information for the eight existing AC units being removed and the four Government-furnished wall units to be installed?

A: Refer to Table 1, Refer to Answer for Question #8

2. Electrical Conditions Could you provide information on the existing electrical panel, including voltage/phase, available breaker space, existing circuit sizes, and approximate distance from the panel to the AC units? Please also confirm whether new circuits, conduit, disconnects, or other electrical modifications are anticipated.

A: Refer to Image 3,4, and 5

3. Mini-Split Locations and Line-Set Lengths Could you provide a floor plan, drawing, or approximate locations for the outdoor condenser and two indoor heads for the 36,000-BTU split system, including estimated line-set lengths and vertical rise?

A: Refer Image 6 and Wall 3

4. Framing and Opening Details Could you provide the approximate dimensions of the existing wall openings, identify which two openings will be permanently closed, and describe the wall construction and required interior/exterior finish for framing, sealing, and patching?

A: Refer to Table 1. Units 4 & 5 will be permanently closed. Appears to be single wall, with exterior hardi-plank siding

5. Site Visit Will a pre-bid site visit be offered so contractors can inspect the existing equipment, electrical conditions, wall openings, and proposed split-system locations?

A: A site visit for Tuesday 9/15/2026 @1000 HDT Tropical Plant Genetic Resources and Disease Research Unit (TPGRDRU) at 928 Stainback Highway, Hilo, Hawaii.

6. Permitting Please confirm whether the contractor will be responsible for obtaining any required building, electrical, mechanical, or other permits, and whether there are any specific County of Hawaiʻi or facility permitting requirements that should be included in the proposal price.

A: All permits will be the responsibility of the contract. As of right now none are anticipated.

7. The solicitation states that performance must be completed within 60 calendar days after the Notice to Proceed, while page 3 states “Delivery: 90 Days After Notice to Proceed.” Which period controls?

A: 60 days after NTP is the proper timeline

8. Please provide the make, model, capacity, voltage, dimensions, controls, and expected delivery date for the four wall-mounted units to be furnished by the Government.

A: LG, LW1223HRSM, 12,200 BTU, 230-Volts LCDI Plug, Fits 27”-39” W x 16” H.

Government will supply theses expected delivery date will be the end of the POP.

9. Are site visits permitted before the quotation deadline? If so, please provide the procedure and available dates. If not, please provide current photographs, existing unit data, opening dimensions, panel schedules, and electrical load information.

A: A site visit for Tuesday 9/15/2026 @1000 HDT Tropical Plant Genetic Resources and Disease Research Unit (TPGRDRU) at 928 Stainback Highway, Hilo, Hawaii.

10. Must the prime contractor hold a Hawaii C-52 contractor license, or may the HVAC work be performed by a Hawaii-licensed C-52 subcontractor? Is a Hawaii C-13 electrical contractor required for the electrical scope?

A: As long as someone on the payroll prime or sub holds the license, that will work.

11. Please confirm the required bid guarantee amount and acceptable form, and the required performance and payment bond amounts and deadlines.

A: If offer is under $35k no guarantee is needed. If over then 20% of the offer.

12. Several existing units are described as covered with mold and mildew. What mold assessment, containment, worker-protection, testing, and disposal procedures are required?

A: No requirements.

13. Please identify the required wage classifications for the HVAC/sheet-metal, electrical, laborer, and any framing work under Wage Determination HI20260001, Modification 3. Please also confirm whether certified payroll submissions are required.

A: Ultimately positions used are up to contractor. Suggested positions include Electrician, plumber, HVAC, laborer and carpenter. Certified payroll are required when utilizing the Davis-Bacon Act.

14. Please confirm whether substitutions are permitted for the contractor-furnished 36,000 BTU two-head split system, and identify any required efficiency, refrigerant, controls, or manufacturer standards.

A: ≥ 36,000 BTU

15. Please confirm whether permits, inspections, engineering, commissioning, or testing are required beyond the work described in the Statement of Work.

A: Permits are responsibility of the contactor none are currently foreseen. Basic function of equipment will be tested to ensure no refrigerant leaks, and that all units are functional.

16. Please confirm whether work may be performed outside the stated 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. facility hours when coordinated with the COR. We would appreciate any drawings, photographs, panel information, equipment schedules, or additional attachments available for this requirement.

A: No

17. We are interested in submitting a proposal for Solicitation 127EAX26Q0106 for the Replacement of Air Conditioning Units in Nematology Lab in Hilo, HI. Please confirm if we would be able to make arrangements for a site visit.

A: A site visit for Tuesday 9/15/2026 @1000 HDT Tropical Plant Genetic Resources and Disease Research Unit (TPGRDRU) at 928 Stainback Highway, Hilo, Hawaii.

18. We did not find a pre-quote site-visit process in the solicitation or statement of work. Is a site visit permitted before September 20? If so, please provide available dates and times and any attendee information or access forms you require.

If a visit cannot be arranged in that timeframe, are photos, existing equipment model information, wall-opening dimensions, electrical-panel details, or other site information available?

A: A site visit for Tuesday 9/15/2026 @1000 HDT Tropical Plant Genetic Resources and Disease Research Unit (TPGRDRU) at 928 Stainback Highway, Hilo, Hawaii.

19. Regarding the requirement “Seal and frame hole for 2 units that will no longer be used” – does the finish need to be painted to match existing surfaces?

A: Yes

20. Regarding the requirement “Set foundation for split AC unit base” – what type of materials does the foundation need to be? Can it be a polymer type of equipment pad?

A:No, Concrete Foundation
Specs:

· Concrete: Minimum 3,000 PSI

· Thickness: Minimum 4 inches

· Size: Extend 6” beyond unit footprint on all sides

· Base: 4 inches of compacted ¾” base coarse aggregate

· Reinforcement: Reinforce with welded wire mesh

· Elevation: Top of pad should be 3”-4” above surrounding finished grade

· Anchoring Mechanically anchor unit using corrosions-resistant anchors/hardware

21. Regarding the statement “Wall units (4) at ends of building (two on each end) will be framed with interior and exterior trim to accommodate for new AC units (to be provided by government)” – please confirm that these are window type AC units to be furnished by the government.

A: Yes, Window Type

22. Regarding the requirement “Once installed units will be insulated for heat and sound and sealed to prevent direct openings to the outside” – If they are window type units, please clarify the part of the AC unit that need to be insulated? The back side of the unit can’t be insulated due to hot air discharge.

A: Seal with trim and silicone on interior wall and exterior wall

23. Regarding the requirement “Breaker will be modified as needed to accommodate AC systems” – please provide existing breaker type and quantity, or if can be verified during site visit.

A: can be verified during site visit. Refer to Image 3, 4, and 5

24. The SF-1442 and Statement of Work require completion within 60 calendar days after Notice to Proceed, while CLIN 0001 states delivery 90 days after NTP. Which requirement controls?

A: POP will be 60 days after an NTP is issued.

25. CLIN 0001 lists a performance period of September 30, 2026 through February 28, 2027. Please confirm how those dates relate to the mandatory 60-day completion period.

A: POP will be 60 days after an NTP is issued. The time frame listed is the overall POP of the contract to allow time for paperwork

26. Please provide the manufacturer, model, dimensions, weight, voltage, amperage, plug configuration, and installation instructions for the four government-furnished wall units.

A: LG, LW1223HRSM, 12,200 BTU, 230/280 Volts LCDI Plug, Fits 27”-39” W x 16” H, Dimensions Depth 22.05”, Height 14.96”, Width 23.62”

27. Please provide available photographs, drawings, wall-construction details, and dimensions of the eight existing unit openings.

A: Refer to Image 1, Table 1 and Walls 1-4

28. Is a pre-quotation site visit available? If so, please provide available dates and the site point of contact.

A: A site visit for Tuesday 9/15/2026 @1000 HDT Tropical Plant Genetic Resources and Disease Research Unit (TPGRDRU) at 928 Stainback Highway, Hilo, Hawaii.

29. For the contractor-furnished 36,000-BTU two-head system, please confirm whether it must be cooling-only or a heat pump, required voltage and phase, minimum efficiency, indoor-head capacity allocation, condensate-disposal requirements, corrosion protection, and any required or acceptable manufacturers.

A: Cooling only required. 220V. Please refer to pictures or come to site visit.

30. The SOW states, “Conceal lines with covers and provide duct to both rooms.” Is a ductless two-head mini-split intended, or is ductwork required?

A: Ductless two-head mini split

31. Does removal of mold- or mildew-covered equipment require formal mold remediation, containment, air testing, specialized cleaning, or a licensed remediation contractor?

A: No requirements for that, contractors all local laws for materials including refrigerant.

32. Is an asbestos or lead survey available for the walls that will be opened, framed, or sealed?

A: No

34. Please confirm the offer-guarantee amount and the required performance- and payment-bond percentages. SF-1442 identifies these as required but does not state the amounts.

A: 20% of your offer

35. Will alternative payment protection under FAR 52.228-13 be permitted if applicable to the final contract value?

A: Yes

36. Are laboratory-specific contamination controls, dust barriers, negative-air equipment, or cleaning procedures required?

A: No

37. Please confirm permit requirements and whether permit fees must be included in the lump-sum price.

A: All costs including permits should be included in your cost.

38. Please confirm required refrigerant-recovery and disposal documentation for the eight removed units.

A: Refer to all local and state laws.

Image 1 (Building Layout and Existing Units Locations) Unit 4 Unit 5 Unit 7 Unit 8 Unit 6 Unit 3 Unit 2 Unit 1 Building Layout Existing Units

Table 1 (Existing Unit Notes)

Unit
Brand
Appox. Cut Out Dimensions
Receptacle Type
1
Quasar
18” x 15”
20A, 125V
2
Friedrich
18” x 15”
20A, 125V
3
Carrier
26” x 17 ½”
30A, 250V
4
Carrier
26” x 17 ½”
30A, 250V
5
Carrier
26” x 17 ½”
30A, 250V
6
Frigidaire
26” x 17 ½”
20A, 125V
7
Frigidaire
18” x 15”
20A, 125V
8
Frigidaire
18” x 15”
20A, 125V

Image 2 (Electrical Locations) Electrical Panel and Disconnect Locations Exterior Electrical Disconnect and Safety Switch Interior Electrical Panel

Image 3 (Interior Electrical Panel) Image 4 (Interior Electrical Panel List) Image 5 (Exterior Electrical Disconnect and Safety Switch) Image 6 (Location of Foundation Pad and Mini Split Units to be installed)Note: Unit 3 and 6 will be replaced with mini split units (refer to image 1 for locations) Location of Mini Split Units Location of Mini Split Unit Concrete Foundation Concrete Foundation

Building Elevations Wall 4 Wall 3 Wall 2 Wall 1

Wall 1Note: Remove Unit 4 & 5 and Permanently Seal Unit 5 Unit 4

Wall 2 Note: Replace units 1 & 2 with government furnished units Unit 2 Unit 1

Wall 3Note: Unit 3 & 6 will be replaced with mini split units Rise Height: Appox. 10’-15’ Concrete Foundation Unit 3 Unit 6

Wall 4Note: Replace units 7 & 8 with government furnished units Unit 7 Unit 8 image4.jpeg image5.png image6.jpeg image7.jpeg image8.jpeg image9.jpeg image1.png image2.jpeg image3.jpeg

File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated .