Mandatory HVAC Conversion: What To Expect
Whether to accommodate a changing regulatory environment or to meet internal sustainability targets, many facilities teams face the need to replace their gas-powered heating and cooling system with something electric.
As with any system upgrade, making this conversion requires some advanced planning and foresight. For facilities teams that face a mandatory HVAC conversion, it may be helpful to know what the installation process entails – and what to expect once the new system is up and running.
Assessing Pros and Cons
Even when facilities teams are given a mandate to install a new system, they can still anticipate some benefits. Awareness of these benefits may make the rigors of system conversion easier to manage.
For example, state-of-the-art electric units can provide greater precision in setting internal comfort levels, including more options for fine-tuning temperature and humidity levels. This can ensure the space remains a welcoming environment for employees and customers alike.
Electric units may also provide a level of futureproofing. The regulatory environment is always in flux, and it’s common for HVAC units to be met with stricter emissions standards. Electrifying now can be an important way to ensure ongoing compliance with evolving policies.
Other benefits can only be assessed on a case-by-case basis. For example, one of the talking points surrounding electric heaters is their increased efficiency – but based on utility rates, they may still be pricier to operate. And while it’s possible for electric units to shrink the facility’s overall carbon footprint, this really depends on having a “green” power grid – for example, one that uses solar or hydro power.
What To Expect From the Installation Process
Realizing any kind of benefit means successfully completing the conversion process – with guidance from a trained HVAC installer.
The first phase of the conversion process will be a rigorous assessment of the facility’s infrastructure. To ensure HVAC conversion is a viable option, the HVAC installer will carefully evaluate electrical capacity as well as the building’s insulation. This assessment may also involve recommendations regarding the type and number of units required to ensure optimal temperatures.
When installing electrical HVAC systems, it may be necessary to update the electrical panel or wiring in the facility, work that requires a licensed electrician. This is where the upfront cost of an HVAC conversion can rise – though again, long-term operational efficiencies will often offset these initial costs.
On the subject of cost, it’s also worth keeping in mind that government rebates and incentives – at the federal, state or municipal level – may help to support the electrification process. Often, HVAC installers can provide ample knowledge about applying for these incentives.
Converting to an electric heating and cooling system sometimes involves operational adjustments. While these units can be more effective and energy efficient overall, facilities teams should expect slightly elongated heating times compared with gas-powered units. This may affect the timing of when the heat is turned on for colder seasons.
Maintaining a Long Lifespan for Electric HVAC Units
Naturally, building teams are required to make an HVAC conversion will want to protect their investment – and there are numerous ways to do so. A simple commitment to ongoing maintenance can help extend the lifespan of the electric unit.
One of the most important things a facility maintenance team can do is schedule routine inspections, regularly pausing to evaluate their unit and ensure it is running as intended. During these inspections, it’s important to clean coils, replace the filters and confirm that refrigerant levels are where they need to be.
Another way to extend the lifespan of a commercial HVAC unit is by eliminating the factors that cause system strain. To prevent the unit from overworking, seal and insulate ducts. Investing in a programmable thermostat can not only minimize system strain, but better regulate heating and cooling costs, too.
Professional installation is always recommended, but having professional upgrades and repairs made is equally important. If the system seems sluggish or if components bear visible wear and tear, that’s good enough reason to enlist the expertise of a licensed HVAC technician.
Planning a Smooth HVAC Conversion
Converting an existing HVAC system always involves effort on the front end. For facilities teams, it’s important to plan ahead, and to have appropriate expectations about the conversion from gas to electric heating and cooling.
Jamie Tuinstra is a product manager at Modine Manufacturing, where he oversees product development, profit optimization, and customer satisfaction for both new and established product lines. Modine is a global company headquartered in Racine, Wisconsin (USA), with operations in North America, South America, Europe and Asia.