Feature HVAC Air con servicing keeps you comfortable
In today’s non-stop 24/7 world the failure of an air conditioning system can cause facilities to become uncomfortable and critical operations abandoned. The shentongroup says these problems can be avoided by putting a Preventative Maintenance Agreement (PMA) in place
A
ll mechanical equipment is designed to operate within cer- tain limits. If not properly main- tained, the equipment will exceed the design limitations resulting in equipment failure. Preventative maintenance ensures that your system works at peak efficiency, which reduces energy bills, extends the life of the system and averts early equipment failure. Making even small adjust- ments to systems can significantly improve the working environment and at the same time save money. Considerable savings in energy can also be made with correct sizing and maintenance of commercial air condi- tioning systems.
In many businesses where the drive for air conditioning is largely comfort led, there is a tendency to leave servic- ing of equipment until the first warm days of early summer. The cliché out of sight, out of mind is often the reason for neglected maintenance on an air conditioning system. This often leads to emergency repairs having to be rushed through at a premium cost, which could have been avoided if a Preventative Maintenance Agreement (PMA) was in place. A PMA is a simple, all-inclusive, 24/7-mainte- nance contract, such as the Coolcare24 package offered by Celtaire. Typical problems that arise from poor or irregular servicing include: • Dust in condensate trays that forms a grey sludge, blocking condensate
and connections, repairing, replacing and tightening as necessary • Ensure proper airflow and clean dirty air filters
• Carry out an inspection of pumps, lubricate and check flow rates • Clean and lubricate motors • Examine belts, adjust and align • Clean inside coil, condensate tray and ducting to prevent obstructions • Clean outside coil and clean fins • Check refrigerant levels
drains leading to unpleasant leaks • Dust and other particulates circulate. These can carry airborne diseases that can lead to staff feeling unwell • Chilled water systems can be fertile breeding grounds for Legionnaire’s Disease • Warranty provisions are rendered null and void by manufacturers if correct maintenance has not been carried out
What to expect from your PMA? Getting your air conditioning checked is as important as changing the oil in your car. During these inspections proper operation of the equipment is checked and verified. Every part of the air condi- tioning system is tested including: • The system’s functions, controls and adjusting the operating sequence where appropriate
• Inspection of electrical components
Innovative heating and cooling for warehouses P
A preventative maintenance agreement for airconditioning systems can be essential to prevent critcal operations being abandoned
A well-maintained modern air con- ditioning system not only uses energy much more efficiently but also reduces carbon emissions. Air conditioning systems use a lot of energy – up to 50 per cent of a building’s consumption in some cases. That’s why the new Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) specifically targets air conditioning systems. As of January 2009, air-conditioning equipment, rated between 12kW and 250kW, were required to be inspected by January 2011 by an energy assessor. Air conditioning systems of more the 12kW would then have to re-inspected at least every five years in accordance with the latest Energy Performance of Building regulations.
The aims of the inspection: • Assess the efficiency and appropri- ateness of the systems in relation to the cooling requirements of the building • Advise building users/managers on possible improvements to, or replace- ment of, air conditioning systems – and alternative solutions
ickerings Lifts Loading Systems has introduced a range of High Volume Low Speed (HVLS) fans to its product range. Created using complex aerodynamic principles, HVLS fans are designed to provide energy efficient cooling and heat- ing solutions for warehouse, storage and distribution facilities by creating a con- stantly circulating, slow moving air mass in large spaces.
The range, now available throughout the UK and Europe, are said to deliver a return on investment within 18 months of installation. Marcus Clissold, business development manager at Pickerings, says: “The fans offer a number of key benefits for facilities including delivering a significant saving on energy bills by reducing energy consumption, improving working conditions by stabilising the stratification in temperature controlled storage areas, thereby protecting product integrity.” Temperature is regulated from floor to ceiling, which can allow a facility to amend its thermostat setting between three and five degrees creating a potential energy saving of four per cent per degree change. Air circulation helps keep food and produce dry and fresh, reducing the potential for decay or spoilage. It reduces stagnant air, hot and cold spots and con- densation. HVLS fans are designed to operate in reverse which helps de-stratify the air in refrigerated environments. Floor condensation is minimised by keeping floors drier and safer for foot and motorised traffic. Indoor air quality is
improved through the dispersal of fumes. Fans can be operated from a central location allowing easy monitoring of fan activity and performance. Pickerings Lifts Loading Systems
T: 01642 607161 20
www.pickeringslifts.co.uk Enter 328
Therefore to ensure systems meet guidelines they need to be maintained carefully and managed in order that they do not consume too much energy. This makes good business sense as energy consumption can increase by 30 per cent if regular maintenance is not undertaken. PMA’s more than pay for themselves through higher efficiency, lower utility bills, a longer life and the peace of mind knowing that system failure is far less likely and if there is a problem during the heat of the summer help is quickly on hand to rectify the problem. Contracts can be tailored to suit the customer’s requirements whether they are driven by lowest cost, fixed bud- gets or maximum flexibility. What is most important, however, is that there is a safe, effective and planned mainte- nance programme in place to prevent downtime, equipment failure and health concerns.
shentongroup
www.shentongroup.co.uk
T: 0844 888 4445 Enter 327
MAY 2012 Factory Equipment
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