Kenneth Henderson
EDUCATION – PROJECT OVERVIEW

The project involves replacing 70 outdated heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units, known as RTUs, in a middle school. The goal of the project is to improve energy management, heating and cooling capabilities, and overall efficiency.

One of the main reasons for replacing the RTUs in the middle school is that the existing units are over 25 years old. According to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), the lifecycle of a roof-mounted HVAC unit is typically 15-20 years. Therefore, the existing units in the middle school have exceeded their expected lifespan and are likely to be less efficient and less reliable than newer models.

Another challenge of this project is the time constraints. Replacing 70 RTUs in a short amount of time can be difficult, as it requires coordinating with the school and scheduling the replacements around classes and other activities. Another challenge is finding suitable replacements for the RTUs that meet the project goals of energy management, excellent heating and cooling capabilities, and efficiency. To identify suitable replacements for the RTUs, NSC’s team of knowledgable project leaders made calculations and determine the best options. After considering a range of options, the team concluded that Fraser Johnston rooftop units would be the most suitable for the task. These units are known for their energy-efficient design and reliable performance, making them a good choice for the middle school’s needs.

Overall, the project aims to improve the heating and cooling capabilities of the middle school, while also reducing energy consumption and costs. By successfully replacing the RTUs, the school can expect to see improved comfort for students and staff, as well as long-term savings on energy bills.