Business Services
When Jeff Dalton was the manager of UGA's Sheetmetal and Roofing shop, he would work to repair and create different types of metal infrastructure on campus. He's had experience creating research lab ventilation hoods, welding various kinds of metal pipes and fittings and installing HVAC units -- he's even worked to repair the pieces of wrought iron that comprise our beloved Arch. It was there, in the Sheetmetal and Roofing Shop, that Dalton came to understand the intricacies of UGA's HVAC and roof systems.
Before the HVAC units in the Business Services Offices were replaced, spot coolers were added to assist older ventilation units in cooling the server rooms that housed all the data for the department. As more units were introduced into the HVAC system, staff in Business Services wondered if there was a more reliable, efficient way of keeping the area cool.
“Before, someone had to reset the HVAC units if they tripped off. This posed a risk for Business Services, because their server rooms need to be kept at a consistent, cool temperature to prevent the risk of computer failures and data loss. Resetting the units was also inconvenient for staff that worked in the office. Now that the old units have been replaced, there’s no need for the spot coolers to run. The system is simpler, and the security of the server room is ensured. The new HVAC units have variable speed fan motors and will only run at full speeds when needed. This helps to keep the server room at a consistent temperature; it also saves energy by adjusting fan speeds according to internal demands."