Commercial Offices Case Study

Waitrose Chiswick – Decarbonisation

Unit reference

AHU 1 & AHU 2 – Roof Mounted Air Handling Units

Scope of works:

EC Fan Upgrade & DX Heat Pump Conversion

Overview
As part of Waitrose’s decarbonisation programme, the existing roof-mounted air handling units serving the Chiswick store were refurbished to remove reliance on gas-fired heating and improve
energy efficiency.

The AHUs were structurally sound but equipped with legacy gas burners and inefficient fan assemblies that were no longer suitable for a low-carbon strategy. AHS Specialist Services were appointed to upgrade the units, enabling heat pump operation while extending the life of the existing plant.

Works Delivered
The existing gas burners were removed and replaced with new heating coils designed for heat pump-fed systems, eliminating fossil fuel heating from the AHUs.

Outdated fan assemblies were dismantled and replaced with high efficiency IE5 EC plug fans, providing accurate airflow control and reduced energy consumption. General refurbishment works included internal cleaning, damper servicing, replacement of AHU intake damper, corrosion treatment, and fitting new filters.

Result

  • Reduced energy consumption through IE5 EC fan technology
  • Removal of gas heating in favour of heat pump-compatible coils
  • Improved controllability and reduced maintenance
  • Extended service life of existing AHUs
  • Ventilation system aligned with Waitrose’s decarbonisation objectives

This refurbishment delivered a future-ready, low-carbon ventilation solution while maximising the value of existing assets.

Before Upgrade

Post Upgrade

Written By
AHS Specialist Services
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