The installation of a new heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system has begun at the Bedford Centre shopping mall, in Johannesburg, Gauteng, to meet the operational needs of a new tenant, consumer goods manufacturer Tiger Brands.

The existing HVAC system had already been decommissioned, which simplified the decision to install a system that would be better suited to the needs of Tiger Brands, says SSD Management Services director Rod van der Westhuizen.

While the previous system was originally designed for a retail environment, that specific section of the mall has since been repurposed into office space, with notably different requirements.

The new HVAC system has been designed by consulting engineering and infrastructure advisory practice, Zutari and SSD exclusively for tenant space, focusing on precise temperature control, optimised energy efficiency and air quality that is “suited to office occupancy”.

Zoned, chilled water and variable-volume air handling units (AHUs) have been introduced to provide flexibility for enclosed spaces and potential future layout changes.

“Our design prioritised energy efficiency while ensuring optimal occupant comfort. Measures, such as economy mode and demand-controlled ventilation, were incorporated to reduce energy consumption.”

Van der Westhuizen adds that the new system will comprise variable air-volume diffusers, further enhancing energy savings, with the new AHUs also being specified with high-efficiency electronically commutated plug fans to increase overall system efficiency.

The phased HVAC upgrade at the centre will span several years, beginning with the improvement of controls and AHU upgrades throughout the centre improving efficiency and thermal comfort for tenants.

Upcoming phases will incorporate upgrades to the central chiller plant, ensuring that the appropriate refrigerants are used in compliance with regulations and industry best practices.

Van der Westhuizen says “modern HVAC systems support predictive maintenance through building management systems that provide real-time data from connected sensors”.

This ensures that temperature, pressure, airflow and energy use can be monitored, which will enable maintenance teams to detect potential issues before they result in equipment failure.

Additionally, the system can generate alerts for abnormal conditions, allowing timely interventions.

The broader focus of these upgrades has been efficiency and control, as higher efficiencies and optimal control improve overall performance, reducing energy consumption, while more efficient thermal rejection reduces water consumption, Van der Westhuizen explains.

Moreover, the use of recycled water from the centre’s water treatment plant negates using potable water for heat rejection.

System Installation

Bedford Centre’s management team deployed a helicopter to help install the HVAC units onto the roof last month.

The installation process required careful planning, as the secure rigging of HVAC units for transfer onto the roof by helicopter posed logistical and technical challenges.

“Safety measures were coordinated with local authorities, permits were secured and weather conditions were closely monitored,” Van der Westhuizen explains.

The surrounding buildings also had to be factored into the operation to ensure safe and accurate placement. Through detailed planning and precision, the airlift was completed safely and efficiently.

The installation of the improved HVAC technology will allow for efficient operations and reduce costs while improving comfort levels.

“Poor thermal control is a common source of irritation to tenants and one of the primary reasons for complaints. A well-run and efficient HVAC system, ultimately, assists with both the attraction and retention of tenants within a retail environment,” he concludes.