Project Overview
Grainger & Worrall, a leading provider of high-quality precision castings to the motorsport, aerospace, marine, power generation and infrastructure industries approached Cool Services for air conditioning solutions. The pioneering company, based in Bridgnorth, sought to enhance the comfort and energy efficiency of the modern glass reception area at its Shropshire facility. The reception area, with a ceiling height of 5.2 metres, posed unique challenges in temperature regulation due both to its height and the extensive glass frontage, which contributed to changes in temperature throughout the year. The area had previously been heated with floor level electric blowers which struggled to make an impact in such a large area.
To address these challenges, an HVAC solution consisting of a high-performance air conditioning system and strategically positioned destratification fans was designed and installed. An air curtain was also incorporated into the design. The entire system was specified to maintain a comfortable environment for visitors and staff while enhancing overall energy efficiency.
Challenges & Considerations
Glass-Fronted Design: The large expanse of glazing resulted in excessive solar heat gain during warmer months and rapid heat loss during colder periods, making temperature control difficult.
High Ceiling: The 5.2-metre ceiling height led to heat stratification, with warm air accumulating at ceiling level while lower areas remained cooler.
Energy Efficiency: Maintaining an optimal temperature in such a space risked high energy consumption. An effective and permanent system was required that was flexible enough to cope with the temperature fluctuations experienced throughout the year.
Aesthetic Considerations: As a front-of-house area, the solution needed to integrate discreetly with the modern and professional aesthetic of the reception.
Solution Implementation
After a detailed site assessment, a comprehensive solution was implemented:
Air Conditioning System: A high-capacity, energy-efficient air conditioning system was installed to provide both cooling and heating as required. The system featured:
- A split system to ensure discreet installation and even air distribution.
- Smart controls and programmable settings for optimised performance.
- An inverter-driven compressor for energy efficiency and precise temperature control.
Destratification Fans: To facilitate air circulation, industrial grade destratification fans were installed. These fans:
- Helped redistribute warm air from the ceiling down to occupant level in winter, reducing heating costs.
- Assisted in uniform cooling during summer by preventing pockets of warm air.
- Operated at low noise levels to maintain a comfortable and professional atmosphere.
Air Curtain: To provide energy savings and prevent the loss of heated/cooled air to outside
- As well as preventing heated/cooled air from escaping, it will help to maintain the temperature within the reception area.
- The air curtain will also prevent any dust, fumes and even insects from entering the area from outside.
The team at Cool Services worked out of hours to minimise disruption to Grainger and Worrall’s busy reception area.
Results & Benefits
The project was completed on time and on budget and has provided many immediate and noticeable benefits:
Enhanced Comfort: Visitors and staff experienced consistent temperatures throughout the reception area, regardless of the season.
Energy Savings: The combination of air conditioning and stratification fans significantly reduced heating and cooling costs by minimising energy wastage.
Sleek Aesthetic Integration: The carefully chosen system design complemented the modern architecture without disrupting the visual appeal.
Client Feedback
Grainger & Worrall expressed high satisfaction with the results, particularly in terms of comfort improvement and operational efficiency. The reception area now provides an inviting and professional first impression, reinforcing the company’s commitment to a high-standard working environment.
This successful installation demonstrates the effectiveness of combining air conditioning and destratification solutions to regulate challenging spaces efficiently. By leveraging modern HVAC technologies, businesses can create comfortable and energy-efficient environments, regardless of architectural challenges.