HVAC System Modernization Case Study

Problem

The Alan Bible Visitor Center’s HVAC system, installed during the building’s construction in 1966 and later upgraded, was significantly outdated and inefficient. This resulted in high maintenance costs and frequent breakdowns, which compromised the comfort and safety of the center.

Specific issues included:

• Aged and Inefficient Units: Three of the rooftop units and all split system units had surpassed their operational life expectancy. Their inefficiency not only led to high energy consumption but also increased the frequency and cost of maintenance.
• Deteriorated Ductwork and Insulation: The interior ductwork and insulation, particularly those serving one of the rooftop units, were in poor condition. This deterioration affected the system’s overall energy efficiency and required optimization to reduce fan sizing and improve performance.
• Inadequate Supply Registers in the Auditorium: The auditorium’s supply registers were outdated and did not provide adequate air distribution.
• Inefficient Exhaust Fans in Public Restrooms: The public restroom exhaust fans were old and inefficient, leading to poor ventilation and higher energy consumption.
• Electrical Safety Hazards: There were significant electrical clearance deficiencies. The proximity of the AC unit Control/Power panel to structural metal parts of the roof structure posed a hazard to maintenance personnel.

Solution

HECO Engineers provided a comprehensive solution to address the commercial HVAC issues, focusing on enhancing energy efficiency, reducing maintenance costs, and ensuring safety:

• Replacement with Energy-Efficient Units: HECO recommended replacing the three outdated rooftop units and all split system units with Energy Star rated units. These units are designed to provide better energy efficiency and reliability.
• Multizone Variable Volume Unit: For one of the rooftop units, HECO suggested a multizone variable volume unit with zone terminal units to allow better control over different zones, improving comfort and energy efficiency.
• Optimized Ductwork and Insulation: The existing ductwork, installed in 2010, was recommended for reuse where possible. Necessary replacements and optimizations, particularly for the interior ductwork and insulation, were advised to enhance energy efficiency.
• Upgraded Supply Registers: In the auditorium, HECO proposed replacing the supply registers with high throw type diffusers to improve air distribution and comfort.
• Efficient Exhaust Fans: The public restroom exhaust fan was recommended to be replaced with an electronically commutated (EC) motor fan, known for its high energy efficiency and better performance.
• Air Transfer Boot: An air transfer boot was suggested to be added over the restroom doors to improve ventilation.
• Relocation of Control/Power Panel: To address the electrical clearance deficiency, HECO documented and proposed relocating the Control/Power panel remotely from the AC unit to a location on the roof where proper safe working clearance of a minimum of 42” could be obtained.

Results

The implementation of HECO’s recommendations led to significant improvements at the Alan Bible Visitor Center:

• Increased Energy Efficiency: The new Energy Star rated units and optimized ductwork significantly reduced energy consumption, contributing to lower operational costs.
• Reduced Maintenance Costs: The upgraded, reliable HVAC units and improved ventilation systems decreased the need for frequent and costly maintenance, enhancing the system’s overall reliability.
• Enhanced Safety: By ensuring proper electrical clearances, the project eliminated the safety hazards posed by the previous configuration, protecting maintenance personnel from potential electrical shocks.
• Improved Air Distribution and Comfort: The new high throw type diffusers and efficient exhaust fans improved air distribution, resulting in better comfort for both visitors and staff in public and office areas.

Achieving Greater Energy Efficiency, Reliability, and Safety.

HECO Engineers successfully upgraded the HVAC system at the Alan Bible Visitor Center, achieving greater energy efficiency, reliability, and safety. This project underscores HECO’s expertise in delivering effective engineering solutions tailored to client needs.

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