MEP design engineering can be a complex subject when an older building is involved. There are so many extenuating factors when compared to new construction. However, there are some tips that you can take into consideration that might make the workflow of working with an older building just a little bit easier and more streamlined. We have put together seven of the best strategies that we use to ensure that the older building you’re working on is more sustainable, while also preserving and complementing the design and character of the structure. We hope they help!

Performing Energy Audits

Previous to installing any new equipment or making any sort of changes to the sustainability of the building, managers and owners should make sure that an energy audit is carried out to identify if the existing systems that are in place were correctly specified, if they are working at their optimum performance, and if not, why are they not working as they should be.

Dirty or clogged filters, incorrect or faulty wiring, leaks, disabled sensors, or just a lack of knowledge from those who are maintaining and operating the equipment can all result in a significant increase in inefficiency, and in turn, costs. MEP consulting engineers can recognize opportunities for upgrading in any of these areas, and also in the building’s water management system, that can waste energy and water over time as also result in major cost increases.

Retrofitting Windows

Windows play a huge part in the overall appeal, aesthetic, and character that comes with an older building. A lot of the time they were bespoke windows made specifically for this building, and replacing them with a new windows might require some cutting or resizing to the window opening. Installing new windows also uses a lot more resources, from the new materials, to transport, and all the way to installation and disposing the old windows. There is also some new technology coming out where solar panels can be integrated into windows, so look out for that!

These factors might make it seem quite appealing then to just keep the old windows that were already in the building, however they might not be very eco-friendly due to their age and design. Retrofitting options like storm windows, insulating shades, and cellular shades can be great options to improve energy performance and prevent any air leaks. An easy first step to improving the energy performance of any old window is to caulk or add weather stripping to drafty areas.

Reduce Air Leaks

Along with windows, there are many other ways to stop air leaks in and around the building, and remember that air that is leaking out of the building from anywhere results in much higher heating costs in the winter, cooling costs during summertime, and allows moisture to enter the building which can cause great damage. Common problem areas are the tops and bottoms of doors, intersections between walls and attics, and recessed lights. These should all be sealed up to stop any air leaking out and increase the energy efficiency of the building. Sounds simple, but it works!

Upgrading The HVAC System

Upgrading the HVAC system to something that includes the utilization of natural heat sources and natural ventilation will help to reduce the heating bills by decreasing the loss of energy. New technologies are much more efficient at integrating this feature into HVAC systems, as well as many other features and methods that help the systems to run more efficiently.

There are many ways that a building can improve their HVAC system’s efficiency, by introducing free cooling systems or upgrading their thermal storage. This will ensure that the system is working at optimal levels.

The installation of a central air conditions system that requires ductwork can require some very thoughtful design, to route the ductwork in a way that it is concealed and meets the overall aesthetic of the building. FCUs (Fan Coil Units) are typically used to replace radiators in older buildings, as their pipes are smaller than forced air systems. Ductwork that runs vertically can also be used where ceiling height is at a premium or the is vaulted/custom ceiling that needs to be preserved.

Increasing Insulation

Again this may seem like an obvious suggestion, but the reduction of heat transfer through an attic space or roof is an extremely effective (both in cost and function) way to decrease the energy being consumed by the building. Heat gain and loss is the greatest at the highest points in the building, and it is caused by the difference between the exterior and interior temperatures. This difference can be even greater when the building needs some structural upgrades to go along with sustainable upgrades. Adding insulation also has literally no effect on the historical elements of the building, so it should be on of the first options considered when a building is being preserved in its original state, like a church.

*Installing insulation is a quick and easy way to reduce energy consumption in a building. Source: Unsplash*

Upgrade Appliances and Equipment

Along with upgrading the HVAC system, managers and owners can see even more energy consumption benefits by upgrading other equipment, like their water heaters. Water heaters that have a high-efficiency save on cost and energy by using far less power than previous models, and tankless water heaters or even solar-powered heaters can make this difference even more pronounced.

Pretty much any electrical appliance can be upgraded if it is old, and you will see some energy savings. There has been a huge focus on energy efficiency with new electrical equipment so the installation of new models will be sure to reduce energy consumption.

Use Renewable Energy

With geothermal and solar energy, managers and owners can install cost-effective, environmentally friendly sources of energy (that take advantage of energy engineering) that do not require any major changes aesthetically or structurally. However this strategy should only be used after other upgrades have been installed, and if analysis shows that it is worth it.

What do you think about these ways to make older buildings more efficient? Engineering solutions would love to hear your thoughts and opinions on the matter, and if you have an older building that you are trying to make more efficient, please do not hesitate to give us a call!