scope of work

UDC were approached by NHS Property Services (NHSPS) to provide a full consultancy service for proposed improvements at Farnworth Health Centre. the primary focus of the project was to replace the existing calorifier, which had reached the end of its lifespan and had developed leaks, with a more efficient gas-fired water heater. as part of our consultancy services, UDC provided mechanical and electrical design, aiming to optimise the building’s hot water system. 

the existing system required the heating boilers to run during summer months to provide hot water, leading to inefficiencies and higher energy costs. the client’s brief specified a new system that would eliminate this need, allowing for a more energy-efficient, on-demand solution. additionally, reconfiguring the plant room would create more space and improve the overall layout of the facilities. 

challenges faced

throughout the project, UDC faced the challenge of maintaining uninterrupted hot water supply to a building that was operational six days a week. to minimise disruption, we planned carefully, scheduling some work during the day and a few out-of-hours shifts. a temporary water cylinder was installed to ensure continuous hot water supply during the transition phases. this allowed us to move the system over to the temporary unit, carry out the installation of the Rinnai gas-fired water heater, and then perform the final conditioning and strip-out of the old system. 

ensuring the building had hot water at all times was the top priority, especially given the health centre's need to operate consistently. our strategic approach allowed us to manage downtime effectively while meeting the client’s requirements. 

outcome

the installation of the new gas-fired water heater has improved the energy efficiency of the Farnworth Health Centre. the new Rinnai system provides hot water on demand, ensuring that energy is only used when there is a need for hot water, therefore reducing waste and lowering running costs. the health centre no longer needs to operate heating boilers during the summer months, which has resulted in further cost savings. 

additionally, the reconfiguration of the plant room has created more usable space, simplifying future maintenance and upgrade work. The project has provided NHSPS with a reliable and efficient hot water solution that meets their needs and aligns with their long-term objectives for the facility. 

overall, UDC’s full consultancy service and M&E design expertise enabled a seamless transition to a modern hot water system, enhancing efficiency and sustainability for Farnworth Health Centre.