Hospital renovation kicks off with new air handler system
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|  Installation of new air handlers will conserve energy and provide more efficient cooling and heating at Hancock Medical Center, according to Administrator Hal W. Leftwich, DBA, FACHE.
The project marked the initial phase of the hospital’s $8 million renovation and expansion of the 18-year-old facility. Months of planning by the medical staff, Board of Trustees, hospital personnel and architectural consultants resulted in a comprehensive facilities master plan to be implemented over the next two years.
Large cranes first lifted an 8,000- pound temporary unit and then two 6,000 pound permanent ones to a new home on the roof.
“We noticed an immediate difference in how long it takes to cool an area,” said Facilities Services Director Hank Wheeler. “The new units are designed to move 26,000 and 16,000 cubic feet of air per minute, respectively, and are equipped with very efficient filtration systems.”
An accordion-style pre-filter bank processes air entering the unit from outside as well as return air from the building. The larger air handler is equipped with High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters rated at 99.7% efficiency.
Ultraviolet lights were installed on each unit as an extra level of infection control protection against the spread of airborne diseases. The lights inactivate bacteria and viruses and together with the HEPA filters create cleaner, safer air before it reaches the workspace.
The cooling coils are treated with a non-corrosive coating to preserve and extend their life cycle, said Wheeler. Digital controls were added to the facilities energy management system that allows remote monitoring of environmental quality in surgery suites and critical patient care areas, he added.
Much of the construction work was completed by the hospital’s facilities services staff in an effort of maximize construction dollars. “This major investment is one you can’t readily see,” said Leftwich, “But it’s essential to provide a safe, comfortable environment.”
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