PROBLEM 

Northpark Apartments was operating with two 20-year-old air-cooled chillers that had been poorly maintained over time. Both units had become inefficient and were no longer capable of meeting the facility’s cooling demand. 

In addition, the building’s two-pipe system required manual seasonal changeover involving 10 valves spread across the campus, creating a labor-intensive and inefficient process. Air handling units throughout the property also had failing valves and thermostats, resulting in poor temperature control and ongoing occupant comfort complaints. 

SOLUTION 

Storer Services developed a phased upgrade plan to improve capacity, efficiency, and system control. One existing 30-ton chiller was replaced with a new 30-ton air-cooled chiller, while the second unit was upgraded to a new 50-ton air-cooled chiller—adding an additional 20 tons of available capacity. 

The central plant piping was reconfigured to significantly reduce seasonal changeover time between heating and cooling modes. A new open, non-proprietary building automation system was installed, and chilled water control valves were replaced at each air handling unit to provide improved localized temperature control for individual apartments. 

This approach delivered immediate performance improvements while also laying the groundwork for future upgrades, including air handling unit replacements and boiler system improvements. 

LEGACY 

The completed upgrades resolved long-standing comfort complaints while improving overall system efficiency and reliability. Residents now benefit from more consistent indoor temperatures and better localized control throughout the property. 

By modernizing the chiller plant and controls infrastructure, Storer Services helped Northpark Apartments reduce operational inefficiencies, improve occupant satisfaction, and establish a clear path for future system improvements.