Why replace my existing chillers now?
We have replaced 25 year old chillers that have given good service for most
of their existence and simply corroded away (see
case study). We have also replaced chillers less than 5 years old, due
to poor design, poor performance and numerous failures at critical times
(see case study)
We have replaced R22 chillers for clients who want to reduce their carbon footprint sooner rather than later, (see case study).
We have replaced water cooled chillers with air cooled versions and vica
versa
(see case study)
Can I replace like for like?
Water chiller design has changed radically over the last 25 years. Most
manufacturers cannot offer an identical, like for like replacement for their
original model, only their nearest alternative.
Almost every situation will require major modification to the adjacent pipes, power supplies and associated support structures.
Many original chillers were oversized to provide unnecessary spare capacity, and generate excessive noise due to cheap and ineffective condenser fans, and vibration due to the use of piston style compressors.
Some local authorities require noise reductions from replacement chillers as the old machines exceed present day recommendations.
Why change my chiller now? Can’t I wait a few years?
There are an estimated 15,000 chillers to be replaced by 2015, due to R22
legislation, in the south east alone.
This equates to some 2000 chillers each year, or each winter to be precise, as changing them during the cooling season is rarely an option.
As each year passes, and only a fraction are being replaced, the problem could escalate dramatically.
Are there enough cranes and engineers to cope with the anticipated scramble in the years to come?
New chillers are invariably longer than those being replaced. Have you got sufficient space?
What risks are there?
The movement of machinery weighing many tons carries obvious risks in any
situation, whether on exposed rooftops or in confined plant rooms. While
it is not always possible to guarantee 100% safety in these situations,
although we have a 100% safety record to date, we apply the highest possible
safeguards and health and safety standards on every project.
What are the main pitfalls?
Adverse weather conditions, especially wind velocity, can cause delays or
even cancellations to crane lifting operations at short notice. Weather
conditions are checked with the met. office two days prior to the crane
lift day and final decisions taken accordingly. The crane companies usually
book two or three consecutive weekends for such eventualities.
Can we have more capacity?
This is the most common question, as many clients like ‘safety margins’
but it is not so simple to achieve. An existing system of pumps, with existing
pipe and power cable sizes can only accommodate so many kilowatts so it
is not always possible or indeed desirable to oversize new machinery. Many
existing installations were oversized when originally designed back in the
80s and 90s when energy costs were far less and a degree of ‘standby’ output
was built in.
How long does it take?
Most local authorities require around 8 weeks written notification for road
closures if a crane is involved, which coincides with delivery periods at
this time (2008) for most major manufacturers of chillers and air handling
units. Deliveries are expected to increase year on year up to 2015 due to
increasing demand to replace R22 equipment.
In two to three years deliveries of chillers could extend out to 14/16 weeks
or more making planning ahead crucial.
Why change now?
Many large institutions have already embarked upon a replacement of old
R22 chillers in order to beat the rush and to improve their ‘carbon footprint’
in the eyes of the public. Replacing now gives you more control over the
timing of your replacement strategy and the removal of risk factors associated
with failed equipment or extended deliveries. It’s a buyers market today
but it will be sellers market in 3or4 years time and you may not be able
to employ contractors of your choice.
Is noise a factor?
Many old chillers exceed local authority noise levels and noise reductions
may be a factor when choosing a replacement. Please note that very low noise
units have inferior efficiency ratings and can even fail to qualify for
ECA tax exemption.
What will it cost?
A good deal less in 2008 than in 2014. We can advise you very quickly on
costs and best selections to suit your particular building and how quickly
it can be done, so contact us now for a free survey.