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RTU Retrofits Facts and Considerations with JCI

In this episode recorded live at AHR Expo 2023, Matthew Schlegel, the Commercial Product Manager of Ducted Systems from JCI (Johnson Controls) joins Bryan to talk about rooftop unit (RTU) retrofit facts and considerations.

When doing an RTU retrofit, you want to make sure you know the budget before anything else; larger budgets will allow you to implement things like VFDs and even VAV technology. In many cases, you may consider adding an economizer for “free” cooling and energy savings. You also want to know what you will get out of a retrofit in terms of value, especially when it comes to system efficiency and longevity.

Some common IAQ upgrades for RTUs include improved filtration, especially with MERV 13 filters. Economizers also allow you to control the amount of outside air with the help of an exhaust system or even barometric relief. UV lighting can also be used in light commercial RTUs.

When doing a retrofit, you’ll want to pay attention to the existing equipment’s footprint. Sticking to that footprint will make the replacement aspect easier. The utility and electrical infrastructure are also important to consider, as you won’t want to replace the existing piping, wiring, and connections.

With regulations and technology constantly changing, it helps to be able to contact the manufacturer to assist with the retrofit process. Companies like JCI are trying to assist contractors with installations by providing guidance and education in the field.

Matthew and Bryan also discuss:

Matthew’s professional experience at JCI
Adding economizers and VFDs
Convertible filter racks
Cost-benefit analysis resources
Changing regulations
Interfacing with the manufacturer during the retrofitting process

To learn more about JCI, visit https://www.johnsoncontrols.com/.

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In this short podcast episode, Bryan and Roman talk about the ethics of IAQ, particularly in terms of microbial growth testing vs. remediation conflicts, based on Roman’s recent experience hiring a mold assessor and then a remediation expert in his home. Remediation is governed by S520 of the IICRC.

Microbial growth is tricky because it is often hidden and has real health effects, but there is a history of fraud in its assessment and remediation. To help combat that fraud, in Florida, assessment and remediation are two separate practices with two separate licenses. Roman got to see the differences in action by working with different assessment and remediation professionals and witnessing how the two practices depend on each other but differ.

First, an assessor came to Roman’s house with testing equipment and a means of collecting lab samples; this assessment started outdoors and continued indoors, and the assessor produced a thorough 87-page report with the tool findings, lab findings, and pictures. As with HVAC, the results are based on science and data, and reputable assessors are licensed, independent, and have the tools and training to carry out the job without using scare tactics on homeowners.

After the assessment, remediation must be done separately. In Roman’s home, all equipment was isolated, and the house was brought under negative pressure with HEPA filtration. There was also surface cleaning and HEPA vacuuming. Then, after remediation, there is a post-remediation verification (PRV). The PRV is carried out by a mold assessor, not a remediator, and determines whether the remediator did their job (and in some states, like Florida, there are criminal penalties for referral payments between assessors and remediators). A PRV consists of IAQ tests and lab measurements, and the results should reveal lower numbers than the original assessment and the outdoor air.

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