The challenge was compounded by the extreme summer heat in El Centro, where temperatures can reach up to 120°F. To keep his team safe and comfortable while maintaining efficiency, Figueroa recognized that brazing would be time-consuming and may create an uncomfortable working environment.
Fortunately, Figueroa had introduced Rapid Locking System (RLS) press fittings to his toolkit seven years ago. For this project, the Top Gun team used RLS press fittings to install 64 fan coils, each with two pipes, totaling approximately 800 press fittings and 5,000 feet of pipe throughout the facility. Figueroa also relied on other key products he’s worked with before including using Toshiba/Carrier HVAC systems and utilizing trusted Navac tools to complete the project.
“What is fascinating to not only us as contractors, but also to the customer, is how well these fittings, tools and systems operate in our extreme climate,” Ryan remarked. “Even with temperatures over 115+ degrees they never seem to skip a beat. They are truly state-of-the-art pieces of equipment.”
Figueroa also noted that along with the importance of utilizing the most efficient tools, another major focus is keeping his team safe.
“I am always very aware of taking care of my crew while working in such extreme heat. I work to do everything in my power to ensure the health and safety of my colleagues. With massive projects like this one, avoiding burnout and heat exhaustion was one of my top priorities. My crew is the backbone of my entire business, so it is essential to strategically plan out the workday to make it through the entire project in a safe and efficient manner.”
RLS press fittings provide a flameless alternative to brazing for HVAC/R applications. By eliminating a source of fire hazards, press fittings also remove the need for added fire precautions such as hot work permits and fire spotters, speeding up the HVACR installation and repair process. Press fittings also allow contractors to create reliable connections in under 10 seconds, compared to the 10 minutes required for brazing each connection, thus saving time on hot days, and providing cost savings to the customer.
The Top Gun team completed the VRF installation in just a few days by leveraging these efficient approaches, a stark contrast to the six-to-eight weeks that the project would have required using only brazing, all while staying cool despite the sweltering summer heat.
“At the end of the day, it all boils down to the numbers,” Figueroa said. “The fittings may cost more upfront, but the time, labor and sweat equity we save on jobs more than makes up for it and we are still able to deliver a top-quality install that we are known for throughout El Centro.”
– Article provided by RLS.
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