In the heart of Chicago, where architectural grandeur meets modern luxury, two buildings stand as epitomes of urban sophistication.
Designed by a prominent architect and overlooking one of the city’s most prosperous neighborhoods, the building’s apartments offer panoramic views and upscale amenities like a rooftop pool and sky lounge.
Keeping them cozy throughout Chicago’s brutal winters, however, posed a significant engineering challenge.
A Luxury Development’s Heating Dilemma
The problem was simple yet critical: the heating system was oversized. With boiler capacities and piping arrangements not aligning with the actual load, the system was beset by operational inefficiency.
The two 6,000,000 BTU boilers, engineered to sustain peak demands, were frequently cycling on and off during less intensive periods. This not only led to accelerated wear and tear on the equipment but also caused the failure of heat exchangers in both towers.
Innovative Approach to a Common New Building Challenge
This scenario is not uncommon in new construction, where matching boiler system capacity with building system load can be a tricky balance. In this case, it resulted in excessive wear on pumps and boilers, frequent replacements of expensive parts, and increased energy costs. The risk of shutdowns and frozen pipes during Chicago’s harsh winters added to the urgency of finding a solution.
Right-sizing an oversized heating system post-construction is a complex task. It required the combined expertise and innovative thinking of Maddock Industries, Heatmasters Mechanical, and a Boston-based team from RBI. The collaborative effort led to a re-envisioned heating system that was efficient, cost-effective, and reliable.
Learn How Maddock Developed a Transformative Solution
To learn more about how this issue was resolved — from the re-piping of the mechanical room to the installation of a Spirotherm Quad Hydraulic Separator — read our case study. Discover how the team not only solved the immediate problem but also extended the life of the boilers, ensuring the comfort and safety of the residents for many winters to come.
To learn more about Maddock Industries and our innovative solutions for hydronic systems, contact our team today.
