Navigating New York City’s strict energy regulations is a constant challenge for property managers and real estate developers. While much attention is placed on emissions caps, complying with the energy audit and retro-commissioning requirements of the city is equally critical. Implementing strategic Local Law 87 HVAC upgrades is one of the most effective ways to ensure your building passes inspection and operates efficiently.
At Irving Haase & Co., Inc., we specialize in plan and spec mechanical work, in-kind equipment replacements, and commercial tenant renovations across NYC, Brooklyn, and Queens. We help property managers execute the mechanical upgrades required to keep their buildings compliant.
Understanding Local Law 87 HVAC Upgrades
Enacted as part of the Greener, Greater Buildings Plan, Local Law 87 requires buildings over 50,000 square feet to undergo periodic energy audits and retro-commissioning measures. The goal is to identify energy waste and mandate repairs to base building systems.
Because heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are the largest energy consumers in a commercial facility, Local Law 87 HVAC upgrades are almost always the primary focus of the retro-commissioning report. Failing to address the deficiencies outlined by your energy auditor can result in severe municipal fines.
7 Critical Upgrades for Commercial Compliance
When your building’s energy audit reveals mechanical inefficiencies, executing targeted Local Law 87 HVAC upgrades is essential. Here are seven proven strategies:
1. In-Kind Packaged Unit Replacements
Aging rooftop units (RTUs) are massive energy drains. Replacing a 15-year-old unit in-kind with a modern, high-efficiency packaged system instantly improves your building’s energy profile.
2. Upgrading to VRF Systems
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) technology offers unparalleled efficiency. Replacing outdated split systems with VRF allows for precise zone control in luxury apartments, drastically reducing energy waste.
3. Water Source Heat Pump Retrofits
For multi-tenant commercial spaces, upgrading failing Water Source Heat Pumps (WSHP) ensures the central water loop operates without thermal stress, satisfying retro-commissioning requirements.
4. Commercial Exhaust Fan Replacements
Proper ventilation is strictly monitored. Upgrading failing exhaust fan motors ensures your building meets NYC airflow codes without drawing excessive electrical current.
5. Implementing Preventative Maintenance Contracts
Retro-commissioning often reveals that equipment is simply poorly maintained. A custom commercial HVAC maintenance contract keeps coils clean and belts tensioned, satisfying audit requirements.
6. PTAC Unit Winterization
In luxury multi-family buildings, unsealed PTAC wall sleeves allow massive heat loss. Professional winterization seals the building envelope, a key metric in energy audits.
7. Motor and Compressor Replacements
If a massive commercial compressor is failing, it draws excessive amperage. Replacing the compressor in-kind restores the unit’s original factory efficiency rating.
Executing Plan and Spec Mechanical Projects
When your energy auditor provides the required retro-commissioning specs, Irving Haase is your trusted mechanical partner. We do not perform design/build services; we specialize in accurately bidding and executing plan and spec work. We ensure the specified Local Law 87 HVAC upgrades are installed exactly as drawn, keeping your compliance project on schedule.