Upgrading Heating System in a Multi-Unit Apartment Building

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Challenge

A seven-unit apartment building relied on a central steam boiler controlled by a single thermostat located in the entry stairwell on the second floor. This setup did not provide adequate temperature control for individual apartments, leaving tenants dependent on a shared boiler temperature.

Solution

A retrofit consisting of replacing this system with individual heat pumps for each unit, giving tenants independent control over their heating and cooling. Murray Heating and Contracting, the contractor on the job, decided to install independent heat pump systems, each with its own thermostat and control, ensuring individualized
temperature management.

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Project Info

Location: Easton, PA
Building Type: Residential
Project Type: Existing building, retrofit
VRF Manufacturer: Fujitsu Airstage
Mechanical Contractor:Murray Heating and Cooling

Outcome

The retrofit gave each tenant the ability to control their unit’s temperature with an individual heat pump for each apartment. The new system eliminated the inefficiencies and tenant dissatisfaction caused by a centralized boiler. The use of innovative products like Paircoil lineset and Slimduct SD lineset cover enhanced the durability of the system and allowed for a smooth workflow with simple installation.

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Paircoil Features

  • Labor-saving single-run installation of both lines.
  • Embossed film coating allows easier installation
  • Fire retardant cross-linked polyethylene insulation
  • Easily shapes to fit any application
  • R410A compatible
  • A2L refrigerant compatible

Paircoil linesets were routed through exterior wall penetrations. Paircoil lineset is easy to install because it comes with factory-prepared bare copper ends without flare fittings to minimize prep work and ensure better customization. The added insulation of Paircoil provided robust support during bending, especially in concealed spaces such as within the Slimduct channels. Drainage, communication wiring, and refrigerant lines were neatly enclosed within Slimduct SD lineset cover size 77 color Ivory, maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the building while protecting the system components. The concealment of Paircoil, drainage and communication were essential for protection from the outside weather.

Bob Murray of Murray Heating and Cooling said, “It was very easy to use the product because of the way that the two linesets… were… together the lineset insulation providing extra support for bending inside of the Slimduct 77 was nice not having to remove the insulation to or… and having that support and just bending it in the channel was lovely. I like the additions to the Inaba Denko product lines there’s a lot of solutions that they are giving us to make the job more streamlined.”

Tenants now enjoy full control over their living environment’s temperature with individual heat pumps, leading to greater comfort and satisfaction. The use of advanced products simplified the installation process, enhanced system reliability, and ensured a professional appearance.


Providers Contact

Murray Heating and Contracting

Bob Murray

(484) 560-3576

www.MurrayHVACR.com

About

At Murray Heating & Contracting, our mission is to provide affordable and reliable HVAC services to our customers.We strive to exceed expectations by delivering qualityworkmanship and exceptional customer service. We offer a wide range of HVAC services including air conditioning and heating repair, installation, and maintenance. Our team consists of certified HVAC technicians who are knowledgeable and experienced in the industry.

Inaba Denko America supplies HVAC accessory solutions engineered by Inaba Denko of Japan and provides support for distributors and contractors throughout North America. Our brands represent quality, precision, and durability. Primary products include copper line sets, line set covers, drain hoses, and mounting systems ideal for mini split, VRF, ducted, ductless and heat pump installations.