Industry analysts estimate that half of the commercial rooftop HVAC equipment in the U.S. is outdated, exceeding the 15- to 20-year lifespan recommended by ASHRAE. Replacing such systems offers benefits like enhanced energy efficiency, reduced utility costs, improved reliability, superior indoor air quality, and modern features like smart controls. Additionally, these upgrades qualify for utility provider incentives. This case study profiles a forward-thinking K-8 school system in Illinois that undertook a comprehensive upgrade of its HVAC systems to enhance energy efficiency, lower costs, and improve comfort levels at its 100,000-square-foot facility.
The school system aimed to replace 39 rooftop HVAC units, most over 20 years old, with the following objectives:
- Enhance energy efficiency to cut utility costs.
- Qualify for energy rebates and incentives.
- Provide temperature controls for individual classrooms.
- Replace non-compliant R-22 refrigerant with A2L.
- Complete installation over the summer for the Fall school opening.
The school engaged a leading design/build performance contractor, with PremiStar as its mechanical contractor. Zach Glover, PremiStar’s VP of Construction, collaborated with the school facilities manager and performance contractor on each stage of the project, from assessment and system design to equipment selection, permitting, scheduling, installation, testing, and commissioning.
To accomplish its objectives, the facilities operations team approved the following upgrades to HVAC infrastructure:
- Rooftop HVAC Units: Installation of 39 ultra-high efficiency rooftop units using A2L refrigerant, ranging from 3 to 20 tons.
- Ductwork: Replacement of existing ductwork to boost energy efficiency and indoor air quality.
PremiStar HVAC. Plumbing & Building Controls Services
REPAIR | MAINTENANCE | REPLACEMENT | DESIGN-BUILD | CONTROLS
- Operational Assessment
- Preventative Maintenance
- Corrective Maintenance
- Repair and Replacement
- 24x7 Emergency Response
- Plumbing Service
- Sheet Metal & Pipefitting
- Energy Efficiency Programs
- Capital Planning
- Warranty Management
- Utility Rebate Assistance
- Centrifugal, Screw, and Reciprocating Chillers
- Process and Environmental Chillers
- Gas, Steam, and Hot Water Boilers
- Computer Room AC Systems
- Pneumatic & DDC Control Systems
- Rooftop Package Units
- Ventilation Systems
- Refrigeration Systems
- Air Balancing
- Cooling Towers
- Pump Packages
- Lower operating and life-cycle costs
- Increased energy efficiency and lower carbon emissions
- Greater occupant comfort
- Enhanced equipment uptime and reliability
- Longer asset life
- Improved budgeting and capital planning