In 2007, SBEC was contracted by Ewers Architecture to assist with the Master Plan for this private elementary and secondary boarding school to assess the integrity of the existing mechanical and electrical systems. Upon completion of the Master Plan, the most pressing need identified was to replace the dilapidated Bunkhouse with a new dormitory to provide sleeping quarters for twenty younger male students. In addition, the new dormitory was designed to meet LEED® criteria and includes rooftop photovoltaic panels to improve energy efficiency.
As the Mechanical and Electrical Engineer of Record for the new boys’ dormitory, SBEC’s scope of work included the following
- High efficiency systems such as radiant floor heating, fluorescent and LED lighting, and low-flow water fixtures
- On-site wastewater collection as well as on-site sewage treatment
- Replacement of electric resistance heating elements with central hydronic heating systems, which provides for combination of fin-tubed wall units and radiant floor heating
- Kitchen plumbing system upgrades including the use of flow-restricting aerators on sinks and lavatories to reduce overall water demand
- Installation of low-consumption urinals and water closets to further reduce demand
- Solar pre-heating of domestic water for high usage applications