Project Overview
Commercial HVAC projects operate on a different timeline and scale than residential work. When a lease agreement has a fixed move-in date and the tenant is a national brand with a grand opening scheduled, there is zero margin for delay. This Westborough project required our team to operate in full design-build mode — handling engineering, procurement, fabrication, and installation simultaneously.
The space presented additional complexity because the previous tenant had partially demolished the HVAC system. Rather than trying to salvage deteriorated components, we designed a completely new system optimized for the retail tenant's specific needs: high ceilings requiring powerful air throw, large glass storefront creating solar heat gain, and stockroom ventilation requirements.
We completed the project three days ahead of schedule — a result of careful project management, pre-fabricated ductwork, and a crew experienced with commercial buildouts. The system has been running flawlessly since the store's grand opening, maintaining comfortable conditions for both customers and staff.
The Challenge
A national retail tenant was preparing to open a new location in an 8,000 square foot Westborough commercial space that had been vacant for two years. The previous tenant had stripped out portions of the HVAC system, leaving behind disconnected ductwork, an inoperable rooftop unit, and no functioning heating or cooling. The landlord needed a complete, code-compliant HVAC system designed, permitted, and installed before the tenant's contractual move-in date — just 21 days away. The space also required a dedicated makeup air unit for the stockroom area per the building's ventilation code requirements.
Our Solution
Our commercial team fast-tracked the project with a parallel design-build approach. While engineering drawings were being completed, our crew began demolition of the old, unusable components. We installed a new 7.5-ton Carrier rooftop package unit for the main retail floor, a separate 2.5-ton split system for the office and break room area, and a dedicated makeup air unit for the stockroom. New ductwork was fabricated in our sheet metal shop and installed over three consecutive days. We coordinated with the electrician for 480V three-phase power connections and with the plumber for condensate drainage. The building inspector signed off on the installation on day 18 — three days ahead of the tenant's move-in date. We also provided the property management company with as-built drawings and a detailed operations manual for ongoing maintenance.
Results & Outcomes
- Project completed 3 days ahead of 21-day deadline
- Retail space maintains consistent 70–72°F despite high ceilings and glass storefront
- Passed building inspection on first attempt
- Dedicated makeup air unit ensures code-compliant ventilation
Project Details
Service
Heating & Cooling
Location
Westborough, MA
Duration
18 Days
Equipment
Carrier
Scope
Commercial
Result
Completed Successfully
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