An Innovative Mitsubishi VFD Installation for The West Aurora School District’s Transportation Facility with Gunn & Pegelow

In April 2024, the West Aurora School District transportation facility faced substantial noise disruptions due to a new make-up air unit (MAU) installed directly above the mechanics’ workspace. This noise was so problematic that it impacted the efficiency and comfort of the mechanics, drawing the attention and intervention of the West Aurora School District Superintendent.
The pressure was on Gunn & Pegelow, an expert HVAC representative, to find a more effective solution that would mitigate the excessive noise produced by the MAU and restore a productive working environment for the mechanics.

Troubleshooting Solutions for HVAC Noise Reduction

To tackle this challenge, Gunn & Pegelow began by getting a solid footing into the project by consulting the engineering team and understanding all of the solutions that have been previously tested. In initial discussions with the engineering team, they focused on identifying the root cause of the noise and exploring potential solutions. They soon discovered that the early efforts included attempts by the T&B contractor to balance the air and adjust belts and drives to slow the fan. When air balancing failed to resolve the noise issue, Gunn & Pegelow’s startup technicians attempted to adjust the belts and drives.
Unfortunately, these measures did not significantly reduce the noise either. Recognizing the need for a more robust solution, Gunn & Pegelow collaborated with local mechanical installers to find the best solution.

Mitsubishi VFD

Uncovering An Innovative Solution to Control Fan Speed

Kevin McLaughlin from Gunn & Pegelow then suggested installing a Mitsubishi Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) to control the fan speed and reduce noise for the 20 HP motor. Demonstrating their commitment to resolving the issue, G&P provided the Variable Frequency Drive to the contractor at no added cost. Despite the few initial setbacks, this advanced solution allowed precise control over the fan speed, effectively reducing the noise to acceptable levels.

Successfully Reducing The Noise with The Mitsubishi VFD

The installation of the Mitsubishi VFD dramatically reduced the noise generated by the MAU, leading to a much more comfortable and productive working environment for the mechanics. This solution eliminated the numerous complaints of excessive noise, satisfying both the employees and the West Aurora School District Superintendent. The success of this project highlighted Gunn & Pegelow’s ability to identify and implement effective HVAC solutions, reinforcing their reputation for excellence in the field.

Mitsubishi VFD
Mitsubishi VFD

Discover Innovative HVAC Solutions with Gunn & Pegelow

Unlock the full spectrum of HVAC expertise with Gunn & Pegelow. As industry leaders, we provide unparalleled support across various dimensions, ensuring a seamless and successful HVAC solution and implementation.
Our team has a proven track record of recommending industrial HVAC solutions to create optimal working environments. The Mitsubishi VFD installation at the West Aurora School District transportation facility was another display of our commitment to resolving HVAC issues and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Let us bring our expertise to your project, ensuring not just functionality but also a transformative impact on your HVAC solutions. Your robust facility requires a unique HVAC system to perform at its best, and Gunn & Pegelow is dedicated to providing comprehensive support. Contact us today for HVAC excellence and discover how we can elevate your next project with our cutting-edge solutions.