With energy efficiency and savings on the top of every commercial property manager’s list and the impending change under the Energy Act 2011, making it unlawful to let properties that fail to meet minimum energy efficiency standards, set to come into place in April 2018, now could be the best time to consider replacing your existing boiler system.
When reviewing your current system, it is worth taking into consideration the benefits of replacing it with a cascade or modular system. Cascade systems are quickly emerging as the best way of ensuring boilers operate at maximum efficiency while quickly responding to changes in demand.
In the past, there has been a tendency to oversize boilers to ensure that maximum requirements are met during peak times such as the winter months, but this method doesn’t take into account those times like the summer when demand is at its lowest. Cascade systems are made up of multiple linked boilers, which are easier to size to an individual building’s needs and can be easily adjusted to operate at a capacity dependant on seasonal demands or changes to other factors like occupancy rates.
Cascade systems offer a high turndown capability when only one boiler is required, offering a more flexible and responsive system. This flexibility also means that the system will still operate if one of the boilers in the cascade goes down. This means there’s increased reliability, so even if one boiler fails there is no interruption to the service.
Often when replacing an existing system, it is usually within the confines of the footprint of its predecessor. However, cascade systems are packaged within a compact, modular framework which saves space and means that there is the flexibility to allow installation in limited or irregular spaces. A cascade system is also often quicker and easier to install due to the fact that cascade systems come in one package with components designed to work together meaning that the installer doesn’t have to try and create a system that meets the demands of the building from a range of components from various suppliers, saving installation time and cost.
If you would like to find out more about cascade boilers or how Robinsons can help you replace your current boiler with a cascade system, please contact us to discuss further. You can also view examples of our cascade boiler arrangements here.