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Poor ventilation can cause multiple health concerns within a business, which is why it’s important to regularly maintain and service your HVAC system. In fact, such a scenario is known as ‘sick building syndrome.’ Whilst most common in the office, it can happen in any building.
While the cost of living is still affecting households across the UK and energy fees are rising, businesses are seeing a huge reduction in the amount of electrical goods they are selling and installing. To combat this, the government has provided a variety of energy efficiency grants worth £6 billion.
Air ventilation systems are used everywhere. Whether it is at home, whilst you are out shopping or at work you will undoubtedly experience the benefits of a ventilation system. In commercial and industrial environments, adequate ventilation is a must. But why is this? In this article we look at ventilation systems: assessing their benefit to us. We are going to pay particular attention to air ventilation in the workplace, and whether it is necessary for office workers.
The concept behind ventilation, and similarly an air ventilation system, is quite simple. The purpose of ventilation is to provide healthy air for us to breathe. This is done by bringing in fresh, outside air and distributing it within a building. At the same time, indoor pollutants are diluted and removed from the building. In a nutshell we need functioning ventilation systems. As well as the distribution of fresh air, they have a number of other benefits which we explore below.
There are different types of ventilation systems, and certain buildings or spaces will demand a different system. The three main types are:
As is suggested in the name, this form of ventilation system relies on natural forces (the wind, for example) to drive outdoor air through purpose built openings in the building. These openings come in the form of windows, doors, chimneys or trickle vents. This type of ventilation system will perform better in specific climates, and relies on the building’s design to harness its maximum potential.
This type of system relies on ducts and fans to do its job. Although more expensive, mechanical ventilation systems may offer better ventilation. Similarly, they may provide more consistent results. As well as the regulation of air quality, these types of ventilation systems can also control the temperature of a building. Fans are used to suck in air to the supply ventilation system, and this air is pushed out via the exhaust element.
A hybrid system (otherwise known as a mixed-mode system) attempts to marry both of the above examples. A hybrid system has natural and mechanical elements, and is able to use either based on the circumstances. For example, the mechanical element is relied on if there was, say, not enough wind. Within this is contingency and complementary hybrid systems. The former uses natural ventilation, and mechanical ventilation can be added depending on the weather. The latter describes an integrated unit that uses its natural and mechanical elements, i.e. the natural system is supported by mechanical elements.
Now you have an understanding of what ventilation is and the systems used to create it, you may be wondering why we need ventilation. In some industries, ventilation is a necessity. Industrial ventilation, for example, in factories and workshops deals with pollutants that would otherwise do people harm. Aside from this, ventilation, across the board, has many benefits. These include:
Being able to reduce the temperature within a building is key to ensuring people’s comfort. In the summer months, when the temperature rises significantly, having a ventilation system in place is needed. This is especially important if there are a number of people in a building (offices, schools, factories)
Condensation can lead to mold, and damp conditions can be a trigger for people with allergies or respiratory conditions. Aside from this, it is, plainly, unhealthy to be exposed to damp and mold. An air exchange system will help to combat condensation, and provide a cleaner and healthier environment.
If a lot of people congregate inside a building, the inside air can become polluted. In our modern bustling society, this is often the case. Having proper ventilation systems in place will, therefore, help to tackle the likes of bacteria, moisture, pollutants and unpleasant odours. Without this, people are more susceptible to sickness.
At the start of this article, we proposed a question: do office workers need an air ventilation system? As you can see, ventilation has many benefits and, quite honestly, is important. For people such as office workers, who spend many hours of the day inside a building, a ventilation system is necessary. Having a ventilation system in an office, whether it is mechanical or hybrid, will help to create a comfortable atmosphere in which people are able to work efficiently. Moreover, ventilation helps to create a healthy environment in which people are less likely to interact with pollutants that will make them sick. Office workers who suffer from asthma, for example, will benefit greatly from a working ventilation system.
With ventilation systems, you are not limited. Heat recovery ventilation systems recover a large amount of wasted heat whilst, at the same time, supplying fresh filtered air into a space. Outgoing extract air is used to heat the incoming fresh air, utilising a special heat exchanger chamber. With a heat recovery system, nothing is wasted. As an employer, this type of system can save you a substantial amount.
If you are an employer, having ventilation in the workplace is of equal value to you. You have a responsibility to ensure your staff’s safety and well-being. A building with poor ventilation will not help you achieve this. Furthermore, if you have clients that visit your workplace, a bright and ventilated building will create a far greater impression than one that is stuffy and dark.
In conclusion, we would argue that office workers certainly need a ventilation system. As a general rule, any building or space where a number of people congregate regularly will need to be properly ventilated.
We hope you enjoyed our article outlining the importance of ventilation. As you now know, ventilation is achieved in a number of ways. In industrial and commercial industries, mechanical ventilation may be needed to ensure better and consistent results. The team here at Chillaire are experts in industrial ventilation, and provide a range of services from maintenance to the installation of ventilation units. If you have any questions regarding our services, or own a premises that requires industrial ventilation, fill out a contact form. A member of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.
There is no questioning the importance of fresh air. Not only do we need it to survive, but it is essential to our overall well-being. But what is ventilation exactly and why is it important? In the following post, we hope to outline and answer these questions and more.
Before exploring the benefits of proper ventilation, we first need to define what ‘ventilation’ means. So, what is ventilation exactly? The process of ventilation can be understood as a two part process. Firstly, ‘clean’ (normally outdoor) air is supplied into a space. Lastly, any stale indoor air is removed.
There are a variety of ventilation systems that provide different types of ventilation. The three different methods that can be used to ventilate a building include natural, mechanical and hybrid.
There are various types of ventilation systems that fall within one of these three categories. These include, but are not limited to, air conditioning, air curtains, air recirculation. Adequate ventilation is not only achieved by mechanical means however. Even windows and doors can be effectively used to ensure a space is properly ventilated.
We spend a great portion of our lives inside buildings. It is important, therefore, that the air we breathe and interact with is good quality. When an indoor space is properly ventilated, you effectively minimise indoor pollutants. Whether it is an office, a classroom or a room within the home, sufficient ventilation and good air quality is something to strive for.
Your line of work will of course determine how little or often you are inside. A lot of people may need to spend a great deal of time indoors (offices, warehouses, classrooms). Using the example of an office space, you are likely to see a number of people interacting with each other in somewhat confined spaces. Though modern offices are typically spacious, there are still areas (kitchens, bathrooms) that are small. If these spaces are poorly ventilated, this can lead to a number of issues.
For owners of commercial and/or industrial spaces, proper ventilation is especially required. As stated, this will ensure indoor air quality is controlled and indoor pollutants are removed. If you are still asking yourself ‘why is ventilation important in buildings’, we have answered in greater depth below.
If there are a number of people in a space, and that space is insufficiently ventilated, it can become hot and uncomfortable. A well ventilated room will ensure the temperature is better regulated. This is, of course, important for comfort. A stuffy indoor space is not relaxing nor is it comfortable. If we consider it in a place of work, having better temperature regulation may also make the workforce more productive.
In some circumstances, the air we breathe indoors can be just as polluted as outdoor air. On occasion, it can be more polluted. The process of ventilation allows your inside air to interact with outside air. If this doesn’t happen, indoor pollutants such as germs and particulates such as dust will remain. As a result, your air quality will be negatively affected.
Poor ventilation is also speculated to increase the transmission of disease. Having good quality indoor air is of the utmost importance and having effective ventilation systems can achieve this.
High humidity levels are a byproduct of an indoor space with little to no air ventilation. With high indoor humidity levels, you are essentially providing an environment in which mould can grow and thrive. If people spend long periods of time in spaces where mould is growing, they are more likely to experience health issues and respiratory problems. This will put your workforce at risk which is the chief concern. As a result of this, you may also damage people’s perception of your company and your overall reputation.
To avoid this, you should always strive to have proper ventilation. There should be a means for outside air to replace indoor air: either through the opening of doors and windows or through a ventilation system.
To emphasise an earlier point, an office or indoor space without adequate ventilation will greatly increase the risk of people experiencing respiratory problems. People who suffer from conditions such as asthma will be more comfortable and less at risk of an attack with the support of a good ventilation system.
As you can see, the answer to the question ‘Why is ventilation important in buildings?’ is complex. The importance of having an effective ventilation system in any indoor space cannot be understated. The need for ventilation can be more pressing in the workplace. This is because at work, people interact with a number of people in sometimes confined spaces. Though you interact with less people in your home, it is still important to ensure rooms are properly ventilated. As well as doing so to minimise health concerns, a properly ventilated room is significantly more comfortable.
We hope we were able to answer the question of ‘what is ventilation?’ in sufficient detail. Here at Chillaire, we understand the importance of adequate building ventilation. Not only that, but we have experience providing air conditioning and ventilation systems to businesses in the commercial and industrial sectors.
If you own an industrial property, and are trying to achieve any of the answers in our ‘why is ventilation important in buildings’ section, we offer a free quote and consultation on any services required. To find out more, complete a contact form or ring us on 0800 092 9898.
After some interesting design challenges, the mechanical ventilation experts, Nuaire, have now launched their new XBOXER Hybrid range. They provide a natural system with fans for mixing warm air when it’s cold and for higher flow rates in hotter weather.
Mixed-mode or hybrid ventilation is a popular solution for schools. It introduces air both naturally and mechanically for better airflow.
Chillaire Limited supplied and installed Daikin FTX-KV / RX model range wall mounted heat pump air conditioning split systems and Daikin VAM heat recovery ventilation system into consulting rooms at the Nuffield hospital in the Leamington Spa & Warwick area.
The Daikin FTX-KV / Rx wall heat pump air conditioning system has been installed to provide the cooling and heating combined with a VAM heat recovery unit installation to provide constant ventilation with selected air changes per hour with up to 70% to 80% heat recovery.
The Daikin VAM & VKM units are ventilation systems with heat recovery as standard with ability to provide Energy Saving ventilation using indoor heating, cooling and moisture.
The Daikin VAM / VKM Heat Recovery systems are ideal solutions for hospital consulting rooms, low specification laboratories, shops, restaurants or offices requiring maximum floor space.
Free cooling is possible when the outdoor temperature is below the indoor temperature, for example during night time. Reduced energy consumption thanks to specially developed DC fan motor prevent energy losses from over-ventilation while maintaining indoor air quality with an optional CO2 sensor, if required.
The Daikin VAM units can be used as standalone units or integrated in with the Daikin VRV systems and are available with a wide range of units with airflow rates from 150 up to 2,000 m³/h. High efficiency filters are available in F6 ,F7, F8 grades.
Shorter installation time thanks to easy adjustment of nominal air flow rate, so less need for dampers compared with traditional installations. Specially developed heat exchange element with high Efficiency Paper (HEP).
Total solution for fresh air with Daikin VAM / VKM HRV units also available with top up or back up electrical heaters.
Chillaire Limited carried out the initial site survey of the consulting rooms at the Leamington Spa & Warwick hospital, then designing, supplying and installing the Daikin systems during December 2018.
You can also contact us by calling our phone number for Leamington Spa & Warwick on 01926 825681.
For Stratford upon Avon or for the Warwickshire area call us on 01789 273289.
Ventilation is the essential process of replacing stale air with fresh air. Without proper ventilation, buildings become susceptible to stagnant air, where bacteria and carbon make the indoor air more polluted than the air outside.
Ventilation is perhaps the single most important element of any HVAC system. It influences air quality and energy efficiency, and proper ventilation controls odours, dilutes gases (such as carbon dioxide), and inhibits the spread of respiratory diseases. Ventilation air is critical in educational facilities and any type of building or indoor environment where many people congrigate.
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is a term which refers to the air quality within and around buildings and structures. IAQ is known to affect the health, comfort and well-being of building occupants. Poor indoor air quality has been linked to Sick Building Syndrome, reduced productivity and impaired learning in schools.
IAQ can be affected by gases (including carbon monoxide, radon, volatile organic compounds), particulates, microbial contaminants (mold, bacteria), or any mass or energy stressor that can induce adverse health conditions. Source control, filtration and the use of ventilation to dilute contaminants are the primary methods for improving indoor air quality in most buildings.
Determination of IAQ involves the collection of air samples, monitoring human exposure to pollutants, collection of samples on building surfaces, and computer modelling of air flow inside buildings.
IAQ is part of indoor environmental quality (IEQ), which includes IAQ as well as other physical and psychological aspects of life indoors (e.g., lighting, visual quality, acoustics, and thermal comfort).[1]
Natural ventilation is the process of supplying air to and removing air from an indoor space without using mechanical systems. It refers to the flow of external air to an indoor space as a result of pressure differences arising from natural forces. There are two types of natural ventilation occurring in buildings: wind driven ventilation and buoyancy-driven ventilation. Wind driven ventilation arises from the different pressures created by wind around a building or structure, and openings being formed on the perimeter which then permit flow through the building. Buoyancy-driven ventilation occurs as a result of the directional buoyancy force that results from temperature differences between the interior and exterior. Since the internal heat gains which create temperature differences between the interior and exterior are created by natural processes, including the heat from people, and wind effects are variable, naturally ventilated buildings are sometimes called “breathing buildings”.
The static pressure of air is the pressure in a free-flowing air stream and is depicted by isobars in weather maps. Differences in static pressure arise from global and microclimate thermal phenomena and create the air flow we call wind. Dynamic pressure is the pressure exerted when the wind comes into contact with an object such as a hill or a building.
The impact of wind on a building affects the ventilation and infiltration rates through it and the associated heat losses or heat gains. Wind speed increases with height and is lower towards the ground due to frictional drag.
Ventilation is necessary in buildings to remove ‘stale’ air and replace it with ‘fresh’ air:
• Helping to moderate internal temperatures.
• Helping to moderate internal humidity.
• Replenishing oxygen.
• Reducing the accumulation of moisture, odours, bacteria, dust, carbon dioxide, smoke and other contaminants that can build up during occupied periods.
• Creating air movement which improves the comfort of occupants.
• Mechanical (or forced) ventilation is driven by fans or other mechanical plant.
• Natural ventilation is driven by pressure differences between one part of a building and another, or pressure differences between the inside and outside. For more information see Natural ventilation.
Natural ventilation is generally preferable to mechanical ventilation as it will typically have lower capital, operational and maintenance costs. However, there are a range of circumstances in which natural ventilation may not be possible:
• The building is too deep to ventilate from the perimeter.
• Local air quality is poor, for example if a building is next to a busy road.
• Local noise levels mean that windows cannot be opened.
• The local urban structure is very dense and shelters the building from the wind.
• Privacy or security requirements prevent windows from being opened.
• Internal partitions block air paths.
• The density of occupation, equipment, lighting and so on creates very high heat loads or high levels of contaminants.
Some of these issues can be avoided or mitigated by careful design, and mixed mode or assisted ventilation might be possible, where natural ventilation is supplemented by mechanical systems.
In commercial developments, mechanical ventilation is typically driven by air handling units (AHU) connected to ductwork within the building that supplies air to and extracts air from interior spaces. Typically air handling units (AHU) comprise an insulated box that forms the housing for; filter racks or chambers, a fan (or blower), and sometimes heating elements, cooling elements, sound attenuators and dampers. In some situations, such as in swimming pools, air handling units might include dehumidification.
Where mechanical ventilation includes heating, cooling and humidity control, this can be referred to as Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC).
Extracting internal air and replacing it with outside air can increase the need for heating and cooling. This can be reduced by re-circulating a proportion of internal air with the fresh outside air, or by heat recovery ventilation (HRV) that recovers heat from extract air to pre-heat incoming fresh air using counter-flow heat exchangers.
The design of mechanical ventilation systems is generally a specialist task, undertaken by a building services engineer. Whilst there are standards and rules of thumb that can be used to determine air flow rates for straight-forward situations, when mechanical ventilation is combined with heating, cooling, humidity control and the interaction with natural ventilation, thermal mass and solar gain, the situation can quickly become very complicated.
This, along with additional considerations, such as the noise generated by fans, and the impact of ductwork on acoustic separation means it is vital building services are considered at the outset of the building design process, and not seen as an add-on.
Mechanical ventilation may be controlled by a building management system (BMS) to maximise occupant comfort and minimise energy consumption. Regular inspection and maintenance is necessary to ensure that systems are operating optimally and that occupants understand how systems are operated.
Ventilation in buildings is regulated by Part F of the building regulations. Approved document F includes standards for ventilation and air quality for all buildings and requirements for the prevention of condensation. The types of ventilation covered include; mechanical, passive stack, background and purge (rapid).
It is supported by the Domestic Ventilation Compliance Guide, which provides detailed guidance about the installation, inspection, testing, commissioning and provision of information when installing fixed ventilation systems in new and existing dwellings.
MECHANICAL ventilation is not something many people would be familiar with in their homes, but it is something many would have experienced in other types of buildings, such as offices and hospitals. Mechanical systems are often regarded as unnecessary for dwellings, but, as our Star ratings encourage us towards better-sealed dwellings, these systems become important. Here I hope to outline the reasons why a truly comfortable and efficient home would include mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR, also called heat recovery ventilation, or HRV systems).
Air infiltration in homes can account for a significant component of the total heating and air conditioning loads in a building (around a third to a half), and this load can be particularly significant in low-energy buildings where all other loads have been reduced.
At a time when housing sustainability is on many householders’ minds, the best way to increase energy efficiency is to take advantage of the basics of building physics by making improvements to the envelope. This involves using basic passive solar design principles in conjunction with insulation and building sealing.
However, sealing a building does mean you need to consider how the building is then ventilated.
What we refer to as ’natural ventilation’, and what the majority of homes rely on for fresh air, is a combination of open windows and imperfections in construction (gaps and holes). This method of ventilation is largely imperfect¹; good natural ventilation relies on natural variations in pressure and temperature, and the best designs use cross- flow and stack principles to induce air flow into and through a building.
Relying on natural ventilation to provide adequate conditions for good health, as well as comfort, is likely to be insufficient in a well-sealed building. This is because the amount of air infiltration relies on a number of factors, including the time windows are open, openable area and prevailing weather conditions. Mechanical ventilation provides a way to address this, using fans to move air into and/or around a building. A number of studies have also shown that the use of MVHR can be more efficient, in terms of reduced energy use and the resultant carbon emissions, than relying on natural ventilation. As with any system, appropriate system selection and design is key.
Adequate ventilation within a building ensures good air quality, by removing toxins and CO2, and also helps to control humidity, thus reducing the risk of condensation. Energy efficiency and thermal comfort can also be enhanced. Air quality can be affected by a number of impurities, such as low-level irritants (dust, pollen) right through to radon and volatile organic compounds. In humid or colder areas, and particularly in uninsulated buildings, there is also a significant potential for condensation when humidity levels are too high, and this can result in mould growth and various health issues. Building fabric can also be affected by moisture and deteriorate, reducing the life of a building and adding to life-cycle costs.
A mechanical ventilation system can:
•remove stale air and introduce fresh air into a building assist with reducing indoor humidity levels
•reduce incoming pollutants, when effective filtration is included
•remove indoor pollutants, including CO2 and VOCs from off-gassing of materials such as those used in furniture and finishes.
Studies show that to ensure adequate ventilation by natural means, the windows in a reasonably well-sealed building would have to be opened at least four to six times a day for a reasonable amount of time.
One of the most important things to get right before introducing a MVHR system is your building sealing—for what is the point in controlling the ventilation and attempting heat recovery when your building leaks like a sieve anyway? It’s similar to turning on the heater while you have all the windows open— fighting the classic ‘losing battle’.
In order to be successful, ultra-low energy buildings require a very good level of airtightness. Once a building is airtight, it then becomes necessary to introduce ventilation in order to make the building habitable.
The simplest mechanical ventilation system uses exhaust fans only, with fixed inlets to provide makeup air. There is no heat exchange on this system, so incoming air is the same temperature as ambient. Exhaust points would likely be provided in areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Another simple system is a two-way ventilator, which operates on a push-pull basis to generate a flow of supply and exhaust. These ventilation systems operate with one fan unit exhausting and the other supplying air.
An integrated heat recovery heat exchange bank is used to transfer heat between exhaust and supply air streams.
At the other end of the scale, a fully-ducted ventilation system is the most effective solution, and utilises fully controlled and balanced ventilation. This type of system is most effective when applied in a well-sealed building, where other infiltration sources are reduced (note: this does not preclude openable windows!) These systems supply fresh, filtered air to the building, where it then flows through the building before being exhausted back to outside, thereby removing hot or humid air. The air volume supplied is balanced with the exhaust.
The most efficient way to operate such a system is to include heat exchange, whereby thermal energy is transferred between the outgoing and incoming air streams, keeping the internal conditions stable and retaining that energy. Bypass arrangements are possible on these heat exchangers, to take advantage of times when outdoor conditions are good enough for direct air supply.
Heating and/or cooling coils can be added to the more complex MVHR systems, and radiant or refrigerant systems (split systems or radiant panels) can be located internally to provide any additional heating or cooling requirements.
Like everything, it’s about selecting the system that’s right for the application. There is reduced benefit from installing a heat recovery system if the issue of building sealing first hasn’t been addressed, as uncontrolled air infiltration will negate the effectiveness of your mechanical system.
Units should be selected based on predicted ventilation requirements (a function of occupancy and heat loads) and then size.
The unit should be selected for high thermal exchanger efficiency. A good unit will have a sensible (related to temperature) heat exchange efficiency of greater than 80% (it can be up to 93%). However, a reasonable efficiency could be around 75% and such units will typically be more affordable.
Electrical efficiency should also be considered (energy consumption per m3 air delivery—less than 0.45 Wh/m³ is excellent).
Controls can be as complex or simple as desired.
For advice on ventilation please call us on Coventry Tel: 024 7624 9440 or email us at sales@chillaire.co.uk / 16 Lythalls Lane, Holbrook, Coventry, CV6 6FG
Chillaire Limited continue to supply Sanyo spares and providing replacement parts / systems for Sanyo air conditioning systems with replacement Panasonic spares / systems.
Sanyo which had been going since 1958 was merged and bought out by Panasonic air conditioning systems. The product ranges of Sanyo and Panasonic were merged under the Panasonic logo and the Sanyo name ceased to be an active brand, at least in air conditioning.
Over time virtually all of the Sanyo RAC products and all of the Sanyo residential air to water range were replaced by Panasonics RAC and Aquarea ranges.
Sanyo air conditioning commercial products had already been launched into Panasonic range,starting with ECOi electric VRF which replaced the previous Urban Multi UM4 range in its entirety and running alongside Panasonics own FS-Multi simplified VRF range . A new Panasonic branded Elite PACi and GHP range followed, with Elite PACi being run in parallel with Panasonics own FS range.
Panasonic FS and FS-Multi ranges have been discontinued in the UK and the entire Panasonic commercial air conditioning and heating ranges are now based upon what was Sanyo’s PACi, ECOi and ECOG products.
Supporting the old Sanyo versions of these products is easy because the electronics are virtually identical.
Chillaire Limited have been supporting existing customers with Sanyo air conditioning systems already installed over the past 10 to 15 years. Chillaire Limited have, and continue to source and supply spares, technical support and replacement Panasonic equipment.
Chillaire Limited have when required attended customer sites with Panasonic (Sanyo) to assist with modification and repair of old Sanyo systems.
Chillaire with the support of Panasonic have access to Sanyo technical information. We recognise existing Sanyo model references. We can anyone who has Sanyo wall / cassette / ducted split systems, Sanyo multi split systems, Sanyo VRF systems or Sanyo chiller units
If you have Sanyo equipment on site and require any assistance, breakdowns, repairs or replacement please call Chillaire Limited on Coventry area 024 76320300, Northampton area 01604 269540, Leicester area 0116 2025094, Kettering & Peterborough area 01536 384046, Banbury area 01295 207682, Redditch area 01527 531275, Derby area 01332 561729 and Milton Keynes & Bedford area on 01908 483585. You can email us at sales@chillaire.co.uk or service@chillaire.co.uk for more information on air conditioning, heat pumps, gas fired heating, chiller units, VRV / VRF systems, ventilation, heat recovery, humidification and dehumidification systems visit our website www.chillaire.co.uk
Panasonic & Sanyo Air Conditioning System Brands
Sanyo air conditioning were taken over by Panasonic air conditioning a few years ago, and have slowly phased out the Sanyo brand and are no longer supplying the Sanyo air conditioning branded range as Sanyo, but instead as Panasonic.
Any new spare parts for existing Sanyo systems come with the Panasonic logo / branding. Existing customer sites with existing Sanyo systems, where we have had to replace the whole indoor or outdoor unit due to faults, as they are sometimes compatible, can lead to having both Sanyo & Panasonic brand names on the same air conditioning split system, which can sometimes cause confusion. We usually install a label on the indoor or outdoor unit to clarify what has happened.
The good news for all customer with existing Sanyo equipment is that getting hold of Sanyo spare parts has not been an issue for Chillaire Limited. We can obtain spares through Panasonic or due to our knowledge of the air conditioning industry through our network of ex Sanyo suppliers. Chillaire Limited has a good relationship with the Panasonic technical department, who have ex-Sanyo staff with good Sanyo equipment knowledge to assist our engineers, even though our engineers have good knowledge on the Sanyo brand.
Chillaire Limited will continue to offer technical support and repair of Sanyo systems, for the foreseeable future. Our engineers have years of experience working on Sanyo split air conditioning and VRF systems. We will also continue to offer support for the Sanyo rooftop units, packaged units, chillers, close control air conditioning systems and their gas fired air conditioning systems.
Panasonic can offer a like for like replacement air conditioning systems for existing Sanyo air conditioning systems that may require upgrading or replacing, which they are able to do with relative ease and quickly. You also have the option to consider alternative brands, which Chillaire Limited can offer, such as Hitachi / Daikin / Fujitsu / Mitsubishi / Samsung / LG matching existing Sanyo air conditioning system capacities, types of equipment and design.
If you have a Sanyo system that you are having problems with and you require assistance, feel free to contact us on 024 7632 0300
024 7632 0300 or by email: service@chillaire.co.uk.
National regional numbers are available on our website: www.chillaire.co.uk
You can also call us on our National Freephone Number: 0800 092 98980800 092 9898 FREE
If users or owners of refrigeration and air conditioning equipment do not keep documentation on site is up to required standards of new F-Gas legislation, could leave them to them open to the risk of legal action being taken by the ruling body of F-Gas compliance.
F-Gas compliance standards on many commercial refrigeration and air conditioning sites fall short of mandatory requirements.
Chillaire Limited believes that contractors need to investigate and review their current approaches to ensure that F-Gas requirements are met properly, and customers (Users or owners) are better informed about their responsibilities, we regularly send out reminder letters to all of our customers. A key element for both the contractor and the customer is the need to maintain detailed records on site for activities involving work on all refrigeration / air conditioning or any F-Gas-containing equipment.
The F-Gas Regulation lays down strict requirements for record keeping, designed to ensure a log is available on site for all operations affecting F-Gas plant.
This has to include a log sheet for every applicable F-Gas asset, and record all mandatory leak tests carried out, whether any leaks are identified and if any remedial work is required, with a record of all refrigerant moved in/out of the plant.
Importantly, there is a requirement to log all top-ups of F-Gas refrigerant made to equipment. Full records should be kept for at least five years. This is designed to ensure there is a continuous log of F-Gas-related work, giving inspecting authorities a complete history to ensure cradle-to-grave compliance. However from experience this not always the case.
The requirement applies to all systems containing more than 5 tonnes CO2-equivalent of F-Gas, and includes the common refrigerants R134a, R410A, R407C and R404A. Hermetically sealed equipment containing up to 10 tonnes CO2-equivalent is exempt, and there is a grace period for units containing less than 3 kg of any F-Gas to the end of 2016.
The obligation came into force on 16 April 2014, with the introduction of EC Regulation 517/2014, updating the previous 2007 Regulation.
Our engineers have attended new sites, where Chillaire Limited has recently taken over the service & maintenance contract and there is no F-Gas Register with the necessary information for each piece of relevant equipment. In these situations, end users are laying themselves open to legal action.
In some cases, there is some form of register or fragmented service record, but the information is incomplete or out-of-date and very difficult to review, meaning equipment owners are not compliant. It is a major issue.
This is usually a major problem on sites attended by different contractors over a period of time, with varying approaches and levels of compliance.
For example, a contractor responsible for a site may be replaced, perhaps a number of times over several years, and data lost or subsequently recorded in a different format or physical place.
An FM provider may be using various different contractors on the same site, who each have their own way of recording the F-Gas information, in some instances the contractor may not even bother, as they may only be going to that site the once on behalf of the FM provider.
The governing body assumes continuity, handovers of record keeping between companies and a minimum continuous record of five years, but in reality it may be different.
In this situation, the client whose responsibility it is to meet many of the F-Gas requirements is left exposed, if an inspection reveals incomplete or non-existent records. Many equipment owners assume that because they have a maintenance contract in place with an F-Gas registered service company, they are fully covered in terms of F-Gas compliance.
The regulation clearly lays down specific responsibilities on equipment owners, for record keeping as well as physical leak checks, and they are legally responsible for meeting them.
Responsibility is only passed to the service company if this is agreed as part of the contract. Unless this transfer of responsibilities is explicitly agreed, the default position is the equipment owner is responsible in law.”
Enforcement agencies are known to be stepping up action around non-compliance, with some cases going to court.
Chillaire Limited keep customer F-Gas equipment asset registers and logs all service maintenance visits and keep copies of all F-Gas visit check sheets for each visit and each end user / customer on file. We can provide copies to end users or customer upon request.
HVAC systems (Refrigeration / Air Conditioning / Heat Pump) replacement is a costly and messy process that can disrupt building operations over an extended period of time. This means it’s crucial to ensure the retrofit produces the maximum benefit. Not only will this enhance the operation of the facility, it will also help to ensure that the retrofit process will not have to be repeated in the near future.
Like for Like Plant Swap?
The easiest and quickest way to replace an older HVAC system is to put in a new system that matches the old one. For example, when the building chiller unit or rooftop package air conditioning system reaches the end of its service life, it is common practice to install a new chiller unit or rooftop package unit of the same type and capacity. Conditions today are probably different, perhaps vastly different, than they were when the original chiller was installed. These days there are alternative options such as VRV or VRF heat recovery heat pump multi systems as well.
While that approach is simple and quick, it is often not the best choice. Most HVAC systems and their components have normal service lives of 15 to 25 years if properly maintained. When a system is originally installed, it is sized and designed to meet the needs of the building at that time. Buildings change, and so do the operations that take place within the buildings. There might be more people in the building and more electronic equipment – computers, printers, copiers and the like. Simply replacing ‘like for like’ does not take these changes into consideration. To get the most out of HVAC system retrofits, the new system with new options must be designed to match the current and future needs of the facility.
New Modern Technologies
HVAC technology has achieved tremendous progress in the past 15 years. New DDC control systems provide a better climate while reducing energy costs. High-efficiency or alternative-fuel chillers can reduce the cost of air conditioning. Variable frequency drives can improve the operating efficiency of both chillers and fan systems. Interoperable building automation systems give facility executives the tools they need to better manage operations.
Although these HVAC technologies are relatively new, they are not risky. They have proven themselves in a range of applications. They are widely used today in new construction. Many are considered essential to keep facilities competitive.
An HVAC retrofit is often a good time to take advantage of these newer HVAC technologies. To determine which technologies are appropriate and cost-effective for the application, take a close look at the existing facility and how it is operated.
System Flexibility Options
Buildings today are in a constant state of churn. Interiors are rearranged. Old tenants move out and new ones move in. Infrastructure requirements increase. The result is that customers are constantly changing facilities to meet the needs of occupants or their own internal operations. One thing that doesn’t change easily in many existing buildings is the HVAC system.
This is why flexibility should be a key goal of HVAC system retrofits. HVAC systems should be able to adapt to those changes without requiring costly alterations. Otherwise, customers face a no-win situation: covering the cost of expensive changes to the HVAC system or living with an HVAC system that can’t keep up with changes in the building. Technology also moves on and there are better alternatives to consider.
Partial-load Performance
Chillers are the single largest users of electricity in practically all buildings. Not surprisingly, improving the efficiency of chillers has been a major goal for chiller manufacturers. As a result, today’s chillers are 25 to 50 percent more efficient at full load than those of 15 years ago. When selecting replacement chillers, much emphasis is paid to this full-load efficiency rating, however that’s only part of the picture.
Most chillers operate at full load for less than 10% their total run time. The other 90% of the time chillers are operating below full-load capabilities. As the load on chillers decreases, so does the efficiency of the units.
Because chillers operate under part-load conditions for such a high percentage of their run times, the annual energy cost of the chiller will be determined primarily by its part-load efficiency. Although it might cost more to purchase a unit with better part-load efficiency, this premium will be recovered many times over through energy savings during the life of the chiller.
Service & Maintenance
As HVAC systems age, maintenance requirements increase. Maintenance costs are too often ignored when system retrofits are being evaluated. In fact, as long as a system doesn’t stop working, it might not even be considered as a retrofit candidate. Just because a system is able to limp along doesn’t mean it’s operating efficiently or meeting the requirements of the application.
Look through maintenance records for the building. High maintenance costs and increasing maintenance requirements are an indication that those systems or components might be approaching the end of their service lives.
Customers should set priorities for HVAC retrofits based in part on maintenance requirements.
Another factor to consider is the availability of replacement components. When components for a particular system are no longer available from the manufacturer, or if the manufacturer should go out of business, it is only a matter of time before it will be necessary to replace that system. This has happened frequently with building automation systems. Before the development of interoperable systems, users were at the mercy of the system manufacturer. Many manufacturers failed or decided to get out of the building automation system business. Others upgraded their systems and discontinued support for older generation systems. Once the spare parts inventory was depleted, users had little choice but to retrofit their building automation systems.
Consider also the maintenance requirements of the systems and components that are being installed as part of the retrofit. Can they be maintained by in-house personnel, or will their maintenance have to be performed under contract? What tools and training will be required to properly operate and maintain the new system? What are the projected maintenance costs? Ignoring maintenance requirements for the retrofitted system will only guarantee having to retrofit the system before it would otherwise be necessary.
Looking into the Future
There is a tendency when planning for HVAC retrofits to focus on only a specific component or portion of the HVAC system. Chillers that are becoming unreliable or the air handler that no longer meets the needs of the conditioned space, might be serious problems that demand to be addressed. But before making retrofit decisions, customers should step back and determine if other projects planned for the building will affect HVAC system operation.
For example, upgrading the lighting system or installing more energy-efficient windows will reduce cooling loads. If those projects are planned in the near future, then a planned retrofit program for the building’s chiller should be scheduled after they have been completed. Reduced cooling loads will allow a smaller chiller, reducing both first and operating costs.
Building Occupancy
One of the goals of any HVAC retrofit program is to improve the level of service. While customers might understand the technical problems with the existing HVAC systems, they will not fully comprehend the needs of building occupants unless they get them involved in the retrofit process. After all, occupants are the ones that understand their environments the best. Customers will not know what system will best meet occupant needs – indeed, they might not even have a good understanding of what their HVAC needs are. Occupant input will give the customer a clearer understanding of what the HVAC system will be expected to achieve.
Building occupants are also good sources of information on the performance of existing systems. Frequently, they are aware of problems that go unreported to building staff. That information is often crucial in setting priorities for HVAC system retrofits.
There’s one other good reason to get occupants involved: HVAC system retrofits can be disruptive. They can require temporary relocation of building occupants. Heating or air conditioning service may be disrupted for days or weeks. A schedule of moves and outages will have to be developed. Without the cooperation of occupants, retrofits can turn into scheduling nightmares.
Funding Approval
HVAC retrofits must compete with other departments for funding. Too often, though, the team responsible simply submit funding requests with little or no supporting information. As a result, projects fail to win the funding needed to perform a complete retrofit. Instead, components are patched together just to keep the system running.
To increase the chances of receiving funding, customers must submit their budget requests in a format familiar to financial managers. Energy savings, maintenance savings, return on investment: These are among the terms that will help convince financial managers of the value of the project.
It’s also important to provide the right level of detail. For example, if reliability is an issue, it isn’t enough simply to report that fact; instead, the team responsible must show that it is a problem with key supporting information. How many times has service been interrupted? What was the cost of those interruptions to the maintenance department? What was the cost to building occupants? What level of performance can be expected from the retrofit system?
An HVAC retrofit is a major undertaking for any customer, building occupants or the organisation’s management. It is also an opportunity, because of the cost and disruption involved, the same opportunity might not come along again for decades.
9. Refrigerant Gases
As of January 1st 2015, R22 Refrigerant will be discontinued. Systems using R22 that require invasive servicing or repair must undergo complete refrigerant R22 removal and deep system cleansing before introducing the alternative refrigerant. An increasing number of equipment manufacturers will be offering flammable refrigerants. Are you ready?
How much money does a saving of 30% energy consumption represent to you?
