Many building owners are unfamiliar with the inner workings of air handling equipment. In many cases filters and drive belts might be changed occasionally and that is the extent of the maintenance. Yet air handling units are significant items of capital plant, often cost thousands to replace. They therefore require consistent inspection and maintenance from knowledgeable specialists who understand how each component operates and the consequences of deterioration. In fact, with proper care from an experienced provider, such as BVS, an AHU can last indefinitely and often beyond the life of the building it serves.
Why Refurbish your AHU?
AHU refurbishment carried out in situ is often the most economical and least disruptive solution for ageing air handling and ventilation equipment.
Before deciding on a full replacement it is wise to review several important considerations.
- Assessing the Condition of the Casework
The physical condition of the casework should be evaluated carefully. Corrosion can appear on weatherproof units but indoor ones may also suffer damage from leaking coils or poorly trapped cooling coils leaving water to stagnate and corrode the panels. Depending on the extent of the corrosion it can often be treated or plated and a specialist will provide guidance on whether refurbishment is appropriate.
- Considering Longevity and Future Use
Refurbishment typically extends the life of an AHU by at least ten years and with good maintenance it may last indefinitely. If your building will continue to require ventilation for years to come then refurbishment becomes a compelling option.
- Regulatory and Spatial Limitations
Another factor is compliance with current regulations. New units must meet Part L2 (2018) of the building regulations which requires high efficiency heat recovery. This increases the size of new units significantly and makes installation more complex. If space around the existing AHU is limited refurbishment may offer an easier and more economical route.
Modern air handling units with thermal wheels crossflow plates or runaround coils can be up to a quarter larger than original models. If supply and extract ducts cannot meet at a single location the only retrofit heat recovery option is often a runaround coil which requires additional pipework. In tight plant rooms or rooftop locations where crane access is difficult refurbishment may be the only practical option.
- Filtration Heating and Cooling Requirements
Older equipment often suffers from poorly fitted or incorrect filters. This allows unfiltered air to bypass and contaminate coils and create staining around grilles. During refurbishment filter frames can be replaced and upgraded to modern specifications. Heating and cooling equipment may also be updated. An electric heater can be replaced with a gas alternative or a DX heat pump coil for improved efficiency.
- Assessing Coils and Valves
Heating and cooling coils require detailed inspection. Bent fins can often be combed however rotting fins indicate that coils need replacement. Even where access is limited old coils can be cut out and new ones installed in sections or flat packed. Valves can also be replaced where they are no longer functioning correctly.
- Evaluating the Controls
Control technology advances quickly and older systems may be outdated. Even so many older control systems can be interfaced with a modern building management system during refurbishment. A controls upgrade is also an effective way to improve energy consumption and overall system performance.
- Additional Considerations
Noise levels may require investigation and acoustic upgrades can be installed if necessary. Older DX coils running on outdated gases such as R22 can also be replaced along with associated condensers. When all of these elements are assessed together refurbishment can extend the life of ventilation plant by at least another decade.
Energy and Environmental Benefits
Refurbishment offers an excellent opportunity to reduce energy consumption. Technologies such as efficient fans updated control systems and low energy heating or cooling equipment can significantly improve operational performance. It is also the greener solution, avoiding the embedded energy involved in manufacturing transporting and installing new air handling units.
Making the Right Decision for Your Building
AHU refurbishment is not a one size fits all solution, but when assessed correctly it often proves the most economical practical and sustainable choice. Building Ventilation Solution can support you through this assessment and provide clear guidance based on the condition of your existing equipment. You can learn more about our services by visiting the AHU refurbishment page or exploring our insights on ventilation equipment.
Ready to explore refurbishment of your AHU?
If refurbishment is not the most suitable option we also specialise in high quality AHU manufacturing. Contact Building Ventilation Solution today to discuss your building’s requirements.
info@bvs-ltd.co.uk
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