By addressing significant challenges and leveraging advanced technologies, our team implemented a sustainable and efficient approach to upgrading the HVAC system of a residential REIT building.
Challenges
- Electrical Capacity Limitation: The building’s electrical service capacity was fully utilized, leaving no room for additional major electrical appliances. Upgrading the electrical service was deemed too expensive and beyond the project’s budget.
- Absence of Natural Gas Lines: The lack of natural gas lines on the roof eliminated the possibility of using gas heat as part of a hybrid heating solution.
The objective was to upgrade the make-up air system to include heating and cooling capabilities and to replace all existing exhaust fans, all while maintaining a focus on green solutions. The existing make-up air unit lacked any tempering means.
The Solution
- Valent VXE ERV: The Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) was selected as the core component of the solution. ERVs recover heat from exhaust air to precondition incoming outside air, significantly reducing the energy required for heating or cooling the air entering the building. This choice mitigated the electrical capacity limitation by reducing the total electric heat required.
- PennBarry UL762 Fans for Kitchen Exhaust: For the kitchen exhausts that couldn’t be integrated into the ERV system, the solution included three PennBarry UL762 listed utility set fans equipped with variable frequency drives (VFDs). VFDs adjust fan speed based on demand, improving energy efficiency and reducing electricity consumption.
The entire solution aligns with the owner’s green focus by optimizing energy use and minimizing additional electrical load. The use of ERVs for energy recovery significantly enhances the energy efficiency of buildings. Similarly, the inclusion of VFDs with the new exhaust fans allows for precise control over fan speeds, further contributing to energy savings.
Our Approach
Our approach centered on overcoming the specific constraints of the project while prioritizing environmental sustainability. By leveraging advanced technologies such as ERVs and VFDs, we provided a solution that met the technical and financial constraints of the building and aligned with the green objectives of the building owner.
Conclusion
This project showcases a holistic approach to HVAC upgrades that not only meets the technical and financial constraints of the building but also prioritizes environmental sustainability. By leveraging advanced technologies like ERVs and VFDs, the team was able to provide a solution that was both feasible within the existing electrical capacity constraints and aligned with the green objectives of the building owner.
