Attachment 5 - RFI Responses dated 1 October 2025.docx

DOCX document 22 KB Posted

Attached to
HVAC Water Loop Treatment Service - Travis AFB, CA
Solicitation number
FA442725Q1128
Issued by

About this file

This document is a Request for Information (RFI) response for an HVAC Water Loop Treatment Service contract at Travis Air Force Base in California. The RFI contains 29 detailed questions and answers addressing critical aspects of the water treatment service, including system specifics like closed loop systems, cooling towers, steam boilers, chemical usage, testing frequencies, and site access requirements. Key details include approximately 221 closed-loop systems across the base requiring monthly testing and treatment, with flexibility for reduced frequency if systems are stable. Potential contractors must navigate complex environmental regulations, handle potential hazardous waste, and provide precise pH testing and chemical management for HVAC systems. The contract involves maintaining water chemistry, documenting system losses, and coordinating with base environmental and HVAC personnel for system maintenance and potential chemical storage.

View the file

Other files

Show all 11

On GovTribe

Work with this file

  • Download the original file
  • Contacts named in this file
  • Similar government files
  • Ask GovTribe AI about this file

Text version

Questions and Answers:

1. Can we be given a site map showing all the buildings to understand the number of loops and time for service? Yes, upon award.

2. Can we be sent the equipment list, if possible, of equipment on these loops? Pump GPMs would be especially helpful to understand overall system volumes since that information isn’t currently available. Latest listing is now provided with current systems along with type and status. See attachment TravisAFBMasterReport_2025.

3. How should we assume chemical usage on each system without overall volumes (typically a 10% loss is assumed and accounted for with chemicals)?

a. Can we have a set number to include for your contract allowance for chemicals? pH balance maintained with leaking systems identified to COR in monthly report and not serviced if leaking excessively.

b. Should we estimate 1 pail of chemical per loop? Varies as some systems will not require service.

c. Or, do you have the pounds or gallons used last year to use as an allowance? Not available.

d. If we exceed whatever amount is set above, is there a way to charge for chemicals needed outside the contract (for example, adding every month to the same loop each year)? If identified and deemed as excessive and contracting approves.

4. What is the understanding of no chemicals staying on-site? Does that mean if we test a system low on chemical, we add it only during the next month’s visit? If requested and allowed by environmental temporary storage is allowed in the mechanical rooms.

5. Are we prohibited from leaving a 1-gallon or 5-gallon container at each building for additions? (This would expedite the process. We noticed chemical at Building 31 on the first location, for example.) If requested and allowed by environmental temporary storage is allowed in the mechanical rooms.

6. How many closed loops? Listing of loops will be provided.

7. Size of the closed loops. Varies per unit.

8. How many cooling towers? Varies per building.

9. What is the tonnage on the towers? Varies. Most over 10 Ton.

10. Are there any steam boilers on site? Yes. Listing provided.

11. What’s the horsepower on the boilers? Varies.

12. The PWS indicates monthly testing and treatment for all ~221 closed-loop systems across the base. Typically, closed-loop systems are not checked as frequently unless issues arise, and this level of service would require a dedicated full-time technician on site. Could you please confirm if the government intends for all loops to be serviced monthly, or if the requirement allows for a different frequency? This is up to 221 requirements. If unit does not require service for removed system, leaking out of limits or other reasons it will be documented on the monthly service log.

13. Could you please confirm if there is a current incumbent performing these services, and if so, provide the incumbent’s name and award amount? Contracting will have to provide provider information.

14. We reviewed your attachment, and the closest relevant section we found was this:

7.2. Hazardous Waste Management. The contractor is responsible for the analysis, characterization, proper handling and disposal of hazardous waste generated by their operation. Management shall be in accordance with Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations and the Travis AFB Hazardous Waste Management Plan. The contractor is subject to the Solano County Department of Resource Management, California Department of Toxic Substances Control, Federal EPA and 60 CES/CEI audits while working on Travis AFB. If hazardous wastes are generated, the contractor shall establish a Satellite Accumulation Point with the approval of 60 CES/CEI and provide certification of proper training to handle hazardous waste. Hazardous waste shall be placed in secured, properly labeled containers provided by the contractor. The contractor shall anticipate 60 CES/CEI audits to ensure their storage area is in compliance with requirements.

But there are no specific testing requirements listed. Please let us know exactly what tests you need performed so we can provide an accurate quote. For a 10 Ton HVAC system, the ideal pH range is between 7 and 9. A pH level below 7 indicates acidic water, which can corrode components like pipes and heat exchangers, while a pH level above 9 indicates alkaline water, which can lead to scale formation. To maintain the right pH level, regular testing and chemical adjustments may be necessary. pH testing kits are available for regular checks, and lab testing is recommended for baseline establishment and regulatory compliance. Proper pH control is essential for the reliable operation of HVAC systems, as it directly influences energy consumption, maintenance needs, and component durability.

15. Can a Site Map be provided with building numbers? Base map will be provided.

16. How many buildings will we need to be escorted by base security vs buildings we will be provided keys for? Minimum 3 as base security requirements change.

17. If the water sample from the closed loop is consistent within proper treatment ranges can the sample be put into the sewer drain line in the mechanical room? Yes.

18. If the water is not treated and has high iron for example, the base will be responsible to drain the loop capturing the water and refilling with fresh clean water correct? Base is responsible for all maintenance on systems and repairs.

19. Are there multiple keys that can be checked out for the mechanical yards ie have two techs on the same day testing different buildings? Keys provided as required by sign out.

20. Can we provide containment pallets to store minimal quantities of chemicals vs. transporting chemicals on and off base? Doing so is safer. Request ed through environmental as required.

21. Monthly checks for closed loops are only standard for loops that are leaking; tight systems that continually indicate the system is not losing water/chemical can be tested quarterly. Would the government be open to allowing this? For a 10-ton HVAC system, the recommended frequency for pH testing is every 3–6 months. This schedule is suitable for most closed-loop systems, where pH control is crucial to prevent corrosion and maintain system efficiency. It is important to note that open-loop or heavily loaded systems may require more frequent checks to ensure optimal water chemistry.

22. What buildings have glycol? Listing provided of each building requirements.

23. System loss is unpredictable since these systems are supposed to be tight (Closed); what are you determining to be "normal system loss"? Document loss to provide to COR on monthly report.

24. What systems do not have pot feeders? For systems that do not have pot feeders, what type of access is available to add chemical to the system? Are there ports? If so, what size? For abnormal access, contractor will submit request to COR for HVAC shop approval.

25. If the system's water is clear must a flush still be performed? Maintenance is provided by base. pH balance is to be maintained and if leakage then contractor will annotate on monthly report.

26. To measure water made up into the system(s) water meters are required; what systems have water meters? Unknown as each system was installed at different times. Contractor maintains pH balance and reports discrepancies for HVAC shop repairs.

27. Are all systems connected to a make-up water source? If so, the proper amount of water needed will be determined by pressure. All systems connected to a municipal water source should be able to refill as water is lost automatically. Contractor will coordinate with COR over monthly report and issues.

28. Can we substitute molybdenum for the aluminum boiler inhibitor with an alternate inhibitor? Please submit request for type of substitution for environmental approval.

29. Can you provide us with the discharge limits for your base? Done during environmental training for the base.

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