BUSINESS
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CRITICAL FIRST STEPS Before you get started on adjusting systems , it ’ s very important to document any changes that are made to systems and parameters . The typical low-occupancy set points that are used during weekends can be exceeded when facilities are unoccupied for months , so setpoints for temperature can move more drastically .
You should also factor in the changes to BTU load . HVAC systems are calibrated to a certain estimated BTU load for typical occupancy , but that will change with low occupancy .
Take advantage of variable speed drives ( VSDs ). A building ’ s systems are designed for near full capacity , not low capacity . With a fixed speed drive , your energy use will remain constant regardless of output .
Any reduced-occupancy plan also needs to allow for remaining staff , so you should consider the essential areas that they still need to occupy and ensure staff are still going to be comfortable .
During low occupancy , venting out particulates and maintaining proper carbon dioxide dilution is still necessary . Overall , the idea is to ease off temperature controls to boost energy efficiency . Consult a building automation service partner for optimal settings .
Humidity stills needs to be monitored , as mould and moisture can become a problem if indoor dew points are not properly maintained .
For IT systems , it is important to maintain the pre-defined setpoints for temperature to prevent any overheating . Most electrical rooms , however , are actually rated for outdoor operations , meaning higher temperatures can be safely maintained , which can be another source of energy saving .
Commercial kitchens and similar areas , which have equipment including exhaust fans and make-up fans , should be focus areas . Fans , freezers and refrigerators that are often set to run 24 / 7 , can be shut down entirely if the kitchen facilities are not in operation . Water systems should not be shut off , and it is important to make sure that you maintain minimum levels of water flow through the system . Stagnant water creates a health risk in systems and can lead to higher-than-normal corrosion in nonpotable systems . Boilers and hot water systems can be reduced or shut down , after taking specialist advice .
Finally , when making all these changes , it is important to monitor the building , and to keep documenting settings and processes . Regular monitoring of the facility will help to ensure that changes are not causing any problems such as moisture or hotspots , and to ensure that the changes are having the desired effect . RACA
Products
SIMPLEX PACKS
The Modiplex is Colcoil ’ s simplex pack range with a horizontal condensing coil for medium temperature applications .
• Simplex Packs with capacity ranges from 1.8kW to 75kW .
• Plant room based , weatherproof and custom sizes to accommodate integrated condensers with horizontal discharge .
• All frames are modular and can be stacked .
• Complete frame Galvanized and powder coated with monobolted joints .
• Standard ranges include evaporator controls .
• Custom ranges built according to client specifications .
• Hermetic and semi hermetic compressor options .
• Compressors with individual electronic and mechanical safeties , individual suction line filters or suction accumulators and check valves .
• Main discharge line check valve along with main liquid line filter .
• Each simplex includes voltage protection , individual safety circuit , custom evaporator controller options and custom compressor start options .
• All capillaries and oil hoses are braided copper lines .
• Smart , energy efficient units including suction and head pressure control , custom built to application .
For more information , call + 27 ( 0 ) 21 907 4222 .
www . hvacronline . co . za RACA Journal I October 2021 49