For a nonprofit located on the shores of Lake Michigan and an adolescent treatment center in Minnesota, geothermal heat pump systems have been an upfront investment that pays off in terms of maintenance, ROI, and effectiveness within an integrated sustainable design.
Chicago’s Michael A. Bilandic Building has 21 stories, one for each year since the previous retrofit. Recently, an open-minded project team paired modular chillers and hydronic gas boilers with pumps and VFDs to conquer some upgrade challenges, bring the mechanical system into the 21st century, and knock 15% off the tower’s measured energy use.
From temperature differential’s effect on pumps over to an airside
design that covers all the bases for comfort and efficient
ventilation, the authors are combining preparation and innovation to
give Tuscaloosa’s new federal building a suitably exemplary
feel.