Subject: Hallway Temps
From: Michael E. Rutkowski (mr@condomanagement.com)
Date: Wed Dec 07 2005 - 10:44:42 CST
I suppose it would be wise to remind some that have been at Vanguard for a while, and inform the newer owners how our heating and cooling system works.
Because of the size of the building, City of Chicago building code requires that our building uses an air "make-up" system for the common areas. Unlike the the furnances in each owner's unit, there is no cold air return in the common area HVAC units. In other words, instead of pulling in the hallway air, heating it, and pushing it back into the hallways, the HVAC units pull in outside air, heats or cools it, and puts it in the hallways. This brings fresh air into the building and builds positive pressure which (I believe) helps to keep a fire in a unit instead of sucking it out into the hallway.
That means right now, the machines are taking air that is 2 degrees above zero and heating it to about 65-70 degrees to try and get the hallways to stay at 60 degrees. It should be noted that the hallway temp cannot simply be controlled via a thermostat as it can in individual units. The HVAC units are computer controlled and take into consideration the outside air temp, inside air temp, and the amount of fresh air being injected into the building. Because of this, it isn't always possible to keep a constant temperature.
Also, there are two units, each with only one sensor. So, each floor does not have it's own setting or regulator. The top floors will likely be warmer that the lower ones as heat rises, and the first floor has doors opening an letting cold air in.
Michael E. Rutkowski
Principal
First Properties, LLC
Phone: 312.829.8900
Fax: 312.829.8950
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