This multi-phase renovation at Douglas High School modernized the building’s mechanical systems through the replacement of the majority of the school’s air handling infrastructure and central plant equipment. The project converted aging multizone units to new variable air volume air handling units and added VAV boxes throughout the system to improve comfort, controllability, and overall energy performance across the 178,000-square-foot campus.
New air handling units were equipped with heating water coils, chilled water coils, UV air-cleaning lights, MERV 8 and MERV 13 filtration, and variable frequency drives. The boiler and chiller plants were also fully replaced, including high-efficiency condensing boilers, new system pumps, and a transition from water-cooled chillers to larger air-cooled chillers that improved redundancy and reliability. Cooling was added to multiple air handling units that previously did not serve cooled spaces, and all new pumps and air handling units were provided with variable frequency drives to support efficient operation and improved system control.
Phase 2 improvements included:
• Addition of makeup air units serving the Vo-Tech areas to bring the spaces into compliance with required ventilation standards
• Installation of welding exhaust systems in the ag shop and other areas requiring dedicated exhaust
• Replacement of the existing pneumatic controls with a new electric DDC control system and building management system
• Improved ventilation, filtration, and system control to enhance indoor air quality and occupant comfort throughout the school
• A comprehensive HVAC upgrade that increased system reliability, energy efficiency, and long-term operational performance for students and staff
By modernizing both the airside and waterside systems, the project delivered a more efficient, code-compliant, and maintainable mechanical system for Douglas High School while supporting a healthier and more comfortable learning environment.
