Commercial HVAC Retrofitting: What to Know About System Upgrades
With proper upkeep, your commercial HVAC system can last anywhere between 10 and 20 years. However, heating and cooling technology is constantly evolving, which means your stock HVAC system won’t be able to compete with modern equipment forever. Enter HVAC retrofitting, a cost-effective alternative to a complete system replacement that delivers improved performance and reduced operating costs.
HVAC retrofitting ensures your system meets your company’s needs while maximizing equipment lifespan. Retrofitting involves upgrading key parts of an existing HVAC system to make it perform better and operate more efficiently. Unlike a traditional repair—which involves swapping out damaged parts with recommended replacements from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM)—retrofitting focuses on targeted improvements to extend the life of your current setup.
For example, The Severn Group might replace the factor drive on your blower motors with variable speed drives (VSDs), which save energy. Other HVAC retrofitting includes improving ductwork for better airflow, integrating smart building automation systems, and adding energy-efficient compressors.
Benefits of HVAC Retrofitting
By overhauling your heating and cooling system with upgraded parts, you’ll enjoy benefits such as:
Cost Savings: Many businesses prioritize energy and cost savings when investing in HVAC retrofitting. Upgraded components can lower utility bills and ultimately offset the initial investment. For example, upgrading to energy-efficient compressors or VSDs can immediately reduce energy use. These parts are particularly efficient during peak demand periods.
Improved Performance: Older HVAC systems may struggle to maintain consistent temperature or provide adequate airflow. Retrofitting enhances the performance of your system by finding and fixing any inefficiencies. For example, The Severn Group can retrofit your ductwork to eliminate hot or cold spots, helping everyone stay more comfortable.
Reduced Environmental Impact: Retrofitting allows businesses to reduce their carbon footprint. Energy-efficient components consume less electricity, leading to fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, modern refrigerants used in retrofitted systems are more environmentally friendly than those in older systems.
Extended Equipment Lifespan: Replacing an entire heating and cooling system can be costly and disruptive. Retrofitting helps extend the lifespan of existing equipment and delays the need for a full replacement. By investing in regular maintenance and targeted upgrades, you can keep your system in optimal condition for years.
Key Considerations Before a Retrofit
Do you think your company’s heating and cooling system is due for an overhaul? Here’s what you need to do to set the stage for a successful retrofitting project:
Evaluate Your Current System
There aren’t any one-size-fits-all approaches to HVAC retrofitting. Before investing in any retrofitting project, it’s essential to consider your company’s goals and the capabilities of your existing system. Your system’s strengths and weaknesses will vary based on its age, complexity, and make and model.
A professional assessment by The Severn Group can pinpoint areas where upgrades will have the most impact. Our team can make recommendations unique to your system and company needs, identify the best parts to facilitate your retrofitting process, and ensure a seamless installation while minimizing disruptions to your business.
Prioritize Energy Efficiency
If you plan to retrofit your equipment in phases, we recommend prioritizing upgrades with the highest energy savings. These might include the following:
- Energy-Efficient Motors: Upgrading your fan and pump motors reduces energy usage
- Advanced Controls: Smart thermostats allow you to control system settings precisely
- VSDs: Variable speed drives adjust motor output based on current system demands, saving money and reducing the strain on HVAC parts
- Insulated Ductwork: Enhancing your insulation reduces energy loss
These energy-saving upgrades can immediately impact your utility costs and ultimately pay for themselves. You can use your savings to invest in other retrofitting efforts, such as installing purification technology that increases indoor air quality.
Automate as Much as Possible
Integrating your Htem with building automation systems gives you more control over heating, cooling, and ventilation. Smart systems adjust operations based on real-time data and pre-set rules that you create. The end result is reduced strain on your HVAC system and long-term cost savings.
Automation technologies also eliminate the risk of oversights like forgetting to adjust the thermostat before a holiday weekend. While these oversights may seem minor, they can cost your business thousands in utility expenses over the course of a year.
Choose the Right Partner
Installing factory parts in your existing HVAC system is relatively straightforward. However, HVAC retrofitting can be more complex. You need a commercial HVAC partner who identifies and implements compatible components into your existing system. Otherwise, you run the risk of decreased equipment lifespan or installation delays, neither of which are good for business.
The Severn Group provides a comprehensive suite of commercial HVAC services. Our team can inspect your infrastructure and identify strategic upgrade opportunities to deliver immediate and long-term benefits.
Additionally, we have an in-house metal fabricator so that we can make custom ductwork for your system. By handling this critical process internally, we expedite the retrofitting process and ensure that the new ductwork is the perfect fit for your business’s layout.
Learn More About HVAC Retrofitting
Is your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system due for an upgrade? The Severn Group can help you explore HVAC retrofitting options and keep your system working like new via ongoing maintenance services. Contact us to learn more.
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