After receiving $5 million in funding through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), Lake County, Ohio contracted B&N to analyze and replace outdated and inefficient HVAC systems in the existing Narcotics Building, a facility that serves as the headquarters for the Lake County Narcotics Agency.
HVAC System Improvements
B&N made significant improvements to the building’s cooling system. One notable enhancement involved replacing outdated direct expansion bypass Variable Air Volume (VAV) systems and associated condensing units with modernized VAV systems. These upgraded systems were equipped with variable frequency drives, MERV 13 filtration, needle-point bipolar ionization, and two-way modulating control valves. These features collectively contributed to more precise temperature control, improved indoor air quality, and increased energy efficiency.
To address space limitations, B&N implemented a strategic approach to convert one of the existing units into a packaged system. This adaptation included incorporating a duct-mounted reheat coil, ensuring optimal functionality while maximizing the utilization of available space. By adapting the system to fit within the constraints of the facility's layout, B&N achieved efficient space management without compromising the efficacy of the HVAC infrastructure.
Additional work included substantial upgrades to the boiler plant, transitioning from non-condensing boilers to modern cast iron condensing boilers, contributing significantly to energy efficiency. By providing N+1 redundancy, the upgrade enhanced the overall resilience of the boiler plant, minimizing downtime and ensuring uninterrupted operation even in the event of equipment failure.
In conjunction with these hardware improvements, B&N implemented a new Direct Digital Control (DDC) system to oversee and optimize the operation of both new and existing HVAC equipment. This comprehensive control system enhanced the efficiency and reliability of the cooling system and reduced the need for manual intervention and ongoing maintenance. These advanced automation and monitoring capabilities allow for optimal performance while minimizing operational costs and environmental impact.