Commercial HVAC Upgrades in a Historic Building? Here’s What to Know

Air-Tro Certified in Historic Buildings as Part of Historic Building Energy Efficiency Program

The San Gabriel Valley has numerous historic buildings, many utilized by businesses in the area. Most of these beautiful spaces also require updated heating and air conditioning for the comfort of their occupants. It’s a challenge that is often overlooked by many heating and air conditioning companies. So what makes us so interested in this topic?

We’re proud to say that Air-Tro has been awarded historic building certification as part of our work with the Historic Building Energy Efficiency Program (HBEEP). It’s a designation that recognizes our participation and completion of their training program. Moreover, as the chosen HVAC provider for the historic George Lawrence Stimson Tournament House for Pasadena’s Tournament of Roses, we take pride in helping to maintain such an important cultural monument to our region’s history. With that kind of experience and technical knowledge, we can help you improve your historic building, too.

1. When it comes to the indoor comfort of a historic building, it’s important first to know not only what your space was originally designed for, but also the specific needs you’ll have going forward for heating and cooling. Current and future usage requirements must be clearly articulated among everyone on the team, in order to find the right solutions and workarounds for any architectural constraints.
2. Consider all the ways to improve energy efficiency without disturbing walls, finishes, or other important architectural features. Window coverings (both inside and out), and fans can not only make the interiors more comfortable, but reduce the need for a larger HVAC system.
3. Be choosy about insulation and where it’s placed. While insulation is important for indoor comfort, working to preserve a historical building’s character and uniqueness is even more so. Think about insulation added to the basement or attic space, rather than behind interior walls.
4. Humidity control is a critical priority. Many older buildings are particularly vulnerable to damage when up against a plumbing, or HVAC system leak. Preventative maintenance is important for any heating or air conditioning system, but nowhere more so than when it comes to historical properties. Take care of the equipment with regular service and inspections, and you’ll avoid headaches later.
5. Creativity is key. When faced with particularly high or low ceilings, a conventional ventilation and airflow plan may not apply. Think about using closets, chases and any other unusual facets of an existing building design to improve air distribution.

Given the many individual vagaries of historic building design and the real challenges that come with adding modern HVAC, it’s important to have a strategy. Whether it’s a historic building used for residential or one utilized for commercial purposes, let Air-Tro help you create maximum indoor comfort for everyone, while still maintaining the integrity of your architectural asset.

AirTro can help you with all your heating and air conditioning needs. We’ve been keeping California comfortable since 1969. Call us today at (626)357-3535.