Project Files: Episode 39 — Monticello Car Club Heat Pump Retrofit
Fujitsu VRF heat pumps bring HVAC systems up to par for premier auto playground
Monticello Motor Club, dubbed the world’s premier automotive playground, is the place to be for New York supercar fans with a need for speed. Membership to the club, which starts with a $65,000 initiation fee, provides access to 4.1 miles of closed-course racetrack, a clubhouse, professional driving instruction, a private chef, two helipads, vehicle storage space, concierge service, and BMWs and Porsches for everyone.
The services and facilities are second to none. Except for the HVAC systems — a replacement project that Bob Bogert, owner of Alpine Air Heating & AC, was contacted about as driving season wrapped up late last year.
Previously, the 10,000 square-foot clubhouse was served by four oversized rooftop units totaling about 60 tons of cooling capacity and about 1MMBTU of propane-fired heating, connected to a system of ductwork. Complaints included lack of zoning and comfort, and the fact that the RTUs were ridiculously loud — especially in the classrooms, where new racers were trying to learn the ins and outs of driving at extreme speed. As a replacement, Alpine Air suggested a VRF heat pump system.
The clubhouse originally had four zones. Alpine Air installed 13 zones. Three 8-ton Fujitsu Airstage VRF condensing units were mounted on the roof. The indoor units consisted of ceiling cassettes and medium- and high-static ducted units. The old ductwork was removed.
The show-ready garage space, with a total of six bays, is now conditioned by three 3-ton ceiling cassettes. Each of the two classrooms is served by two 30,000-BTU medium-static ducted units. In the kitchen, a 2-ton medium static air handler is used, and the lounge, locker rooms, and restrooms utilize either 12,000 or 18,000-BTU ceiling cassettes.
The main area of the clubhouse features the entry and a bar, and has a four-ton, high-static air handler. Because of the 11-foot ceilings, the team used a high-static air handler for premium comfort during heating season. Each zone features touch-screen, wall-mount controls, and the system provides facility managers with remote access.
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