In the world of HVAC installs in commercial buildings, multi-device control configurations are often the norm when it comes to cooling and airflow. While they provide the comfort and functionality a building’s occupants need, they are often far from ideal when it comes to installation, maintenance, and overall finished aesthetic. Multiple loads must feed into multiple boxes, and all of these materials must be mounted to a wall, in a utility area, or on a roof. A licensed electrician must assemble the components, ensuring all parts are installed correctly and are compatible — a process that can take time and add to the system’s cost. While the result might meet spec, it can result in a cluttered and disorganized system that’s difficult to maintain. Since multiple manufacturers often supply materials, those materials might appear compatible on paper but not align as expected. Then, one must consider repairs. Troubleshooting problem areas can lead to additional wasted time: Which control device is causing the issue? Which manufacturer will supply the parts? Calling for support also means multiple points of contact: Manufacturer A directs you to manufacturer B, which directs you back to manufacturer A or manufacturer C, D, or E.
If any of these situations sound familiar, an integrated cooling tower panel could provide a smarter solution. These units, which consist of a drive, pump starter, basin heater starter, and a temperature controller in built-to-spec configurations, can accommodate high-horsepower systems. They serve as a single-point power control panel that drives the entire tower regardless of the complexity and combine what is typically handled by multiple control devices all within a single, standard panel. These units are not only more compact and streamlined, they are also delivered from a single manufacturer and engineered and preassembled to spec. They offer a host of additional benefits that electrical engineers, building owners, electricians, and maintenance personnel can appreciate — from initial spec throughout the life cycle of the product.