Ainsworth Building energy upgrade will pay itself in 8-10 years

While most everyone at MESD was enjoying a quiet Saturday on August 25, Facilities Supervisor Mark Wheeler was at the Ainsworth Building making sure the installation of a new $100,000 boiler went smoothly.

Here are some facts and photos about the project:

What: A pair of high efficiency boilers to replace the original one installed over 20 years ago on the Ainsworth Building roof.

Why: Replacement of the boiler was one of five important energy efficiency recommendations made by a study conducted last year by the Energy Trust of Oregon. The cost of the study was donated by the Trust.

How: An industrial crane was set in place and crew of technicians worked 10-hour days over the weekend to ensure that no disruption would occur during MESD's work week.

Benefits to MESD: The new boilers are 95% efficient - about a 50% increase over the old equipment. The boilers will pay for themselves in 8-10 years through lower utility bills to MESD.

Kudos to: MESD's Facility Services staff who researched, ordered and planned the project which came off flawlessly.

The crane is in place

The view from the roof

Raising the parts one at a time

Lifting a boiler? Easy
Lifting one with a plane on the top? An act of genius

Waiting in place to be lifted

Just over the edge

From parking lot to rooftop

Separate sections go up according to plan

Being very careful with an expensive piece of equipment