Wyoming City Schools

Summary

When the lack of air conditioning, outdated HVAC systems and the absence of security cameras jeopardized the comfort and safety of students and staff, the school district sought ways to upgrade its facilities.

Challenge

In line with its commitment to fostering the individual excellence of its students, Wyoming City Schools sought to initiate infrastructure updates to improve the learning environment at its five schools. Outdated HVAC systems at the facilities had reached the end of their useful life and were proving to be unreliable and inefficient. Without air conditioning, the district’s three elementary schools were uncomfortable for students and staff during warm weather. Security camera systems were also desired to ensure the safety of its students. While the critical need for facility improvements existed, the financing to complete the upgrades did not. Wyoming City Schools sought ways to obtain funding, while demonstrating prudent use of tax dollars.

Solution

After interviewing multiple suppliers, the Wyoming City School District selected Trane for their upgrade project. Trane’s ability to provide turnkey project management, equipment and installation provided a level of risk avoidance unmatched by the other suppliers. Trane began by completing an assessment of the district’s air conditioning needs, clearly outlining the project scope and identifying energy saving opportunities.

Dual-funding solution initiates upgrade
Trane presented a unique dual-funding solution that used Ohio House Bill 264 and the Ohio State Term Schedule at the same time to fund the upgrades. Using the House Bill 264 process, the district could finance certain improvements and use the energy savings to pay off the financing over fifteen years. The State Term Schedule (STS) was used for items not covered under the House Bill 264 and allowed Trane to contract directly with the district as a general contractor, providing HVAC equipment and installation services. The State of Ohio reviewed and approved the energy savings calculations in the Trane proposal, allowing the school district to move forward with the upgrades.

Reliable cooling units improve student comfort
Trane rooftop and split HVAC systems were installed at the high school gymnasium and high-efficiency rooftop units provide air conditioning for the three elementary schools. The rooftop units are reliable, easy to install and require less maintenance, reducing the operating cost and upfront expense for the district. The units operate quietly, which helps ensure an effective learning environment. Energy efficient Dynamic Air Cleaners were also installed to improve indoor air quality.

Building automation simplifies facilities management
Using Trane Tracer ES™ building automation control software, the school district’s controllers were integrated into their existing controls system to provide upgraded energy conservation programming. Tracer ES gives the district an online, enterprise-wide view, and control over all of its buildings and systems from any computer on their network. With Tracer ES, facilities managers can perform daily tasks remotely, including troubleshooting, scheduling, alarm management and data analysis.

Service improves system efficiency
A Trane Service Agreement helps ensure efficient system operation. Factory-authorized technicians perform periodic maintenance to keep systems running at their best. With scheduled maintenance, the systems require fewer urgent ad hoc repairs, lowering the district’s operating cost and extending the life of the HVAC equipment.

Results

The State of Ohio reviewed and approved Trane’s proposed energy saving calculations for approximately $81,000 in annual savings, allowing Wyoming City Schools to obtain financing for the much-needed improvements through Ohio House Bill 264 and the State Term Schedule. Energy costs were lowered by using better control strategies and more efficient equipment. Replacing its aging equipment helped the district reduce service costs, while increasing system reliability. The school was also able to address its security, lighting and water consumption needs. The upgrades improved the learning environment for students. "The air conditioning at our three elementary schools made a big difference," said Ted Howse, maintenance supervisor, Wyoming City School District. "The principal was amazed at how much happier the students and staff were during the hot days of August compared to years past. We had fewer students out with heat-related illnesses." "Trane was great at getting the equipment installed, tested and running before the first day the kids came in," added Howse. "Overall, a great experience."

About Wyoming City Schools

Centrally located within easy access to downtown Cincinnati, Ohio, the 2.8 square mile community of Wyoming offers the advantages of a small town and the amenities of a big city. Wyoming’s 8,300 residents have long valued and supported education at the absolute highest level. Their expectations are reflected in the commitment of the Wyoming City School District to provide an excellent education for each student through rigorous academics, an outstanding faculty, individual attention and enrichment opportunities.