Oakland Group Articles

Archive for the 'News' Category

Commercial Air Conditioning

Wednesday, June 25th, 2008

Obtaining and installing domestic air conditioning units is not that complex a process. You can simply go out and take a look at the range of air conditioning systems, purchase the one you like and either employ an engineer to install it or do it yourself. It really is that simple. However, if you want commercial air conditioning in your office, warehouse or any other place of work then that is a whole new ball game, and one that is far more complex.

Commercial air conditioning is put in place to fulfil a specific function. It is there to ensure that any given room is of a comfortable temperature for the people working within it. A room may be an office that is only just big enough to fit a desk and chair in it, or it may be a huge warehouse with endless rows of items to block the flow of air. The system used for the former would not make an impact on the latter and the powerful system designed to fit a warehouse would turn an office into an icebox. This would go some way to explaining why each and every system for commercial settings is individually tailored to the business’s wants and needs.

No two businesses are the same and therefore their commercial air conditioning needs will not be the same. This is why commercial and industrial air conditioning systems are designed with the individual company in mind. A bespoke system will work out to be much more efficient at achieving the temperature you want without pushing your energy bills up too much.

It is important to examine the commercial air conditioning market before settling on an individual company to fulfil the need for air conditioning units. Various companies tend to specialize in certain areas and so could perhaps fit your units more effectively than others. The company that initially installs commercial air conditioning for you may also be a long-term partner in that the system will require routine maintenance regularly. It is often advisable to retain the same company for maintenance because they will have built the system for you to begin with.

If you are considering a commercial air conditioning system then please contact Oakland Air Control to book a free consultation with one of our engineers. They will advise you on your needs, any additional work that will need doing (electrical supplies for example) and give you a no obligation quote. It is as simple as that!

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Massive Carbon Reductions From Combined Heat & Power
Tuesday, June 24th, 2008

Combined Heat and Power (CHP) is high efficiency technology strongly backed by the UK Government, which has set a target of 10,000 MW of installed CHP capacity by 2010.

Figures show that every 1 MW of CHP operating in the UK helps to reduce carbon emissions by between 600 and 800 tonnes per year. This saves over 4 million tonnes of carbon annually, representing one of the largest single carbon reduction measures in the Government’s Climate Change Programme.

Mitsubishi Electric has produced an industry guide discussing the developing technologies which make this process a viable alternative for the future. CHP is a very energy efficient way to produce power and heat, which can use either fossil fuels or renewable sources. These systems can convert up to 90% of the energy in the fuel into electrical power and heat.

“CHP has the potential to make a major contribution to the UK’s carbon emission reduction campaign. It is the simultaneous production of usable heat and electricity in a single process. The heat generated from the production of electricity can be delivered in a number of ways, including warm water, or through steam,” said Commercial Director Donald Daw.

“Combined heat and power is not a new idea, having been in use for well over 50 years. There are however, a number of recent technologies that are developing to help produce simultaneous heat and electricity.”

New developing technologies include using biomass or fuel cells as an alternative to fossil fuels. Generally, the capital costs for CHP will be higher than for conventional plant, but it does offer long-term savings.

Systems can be run on fossil fuels such as gas or diesel, but they can also be converted to use renewable energy sources such as biogas from waste. Technologies currently in most widespread use are steam turbines, gas turbines and diesel-driven turbines.

In its simplest form, a CHP system employs a gas turbine, an engine or a steam turbine to drive an alternator and the resulting electricity can be used either wholly or partially on-site. The heat produced during power generation is recovered, usually in a heat recovery boiler and can be used to raise steam for a number of industrial processes, to provide hot water for space heating, or for cooling where appropriate equipment has been installed.

“As with all equipment, maintenance of CHP systems is very important as it will help ensure efficient operation and reduce down-time. Specialist knowledge is required and often the suppliers of CHP will also contract to carry out regular maintenance, on the basis of contracted performance levels,” said Mr Daw. Anything else in the industry,” ended Cole.

Posted in News

Industry Top COP Turns Up The Heat For Air Conditioning
Tuesday, May 27th, 2008

Environmental control manufacturer Mitsubishi Electric, has launched a new wall-mounted, inverter driven heat pump air conditioning system with an industry high COP of 5.25 in heating and 5.15 in cooling modes.The M Series, MSZ-FD models demonstrate beyond doubt that smaller air conditioning heating has come of age and extends the possibility of energy efficient heating and cooling to a wider range of properties and applications.

“These models are ideal for the UK climate because they can deliver energy efficient heating for the majority of the year, but can also be used for cooling when the British summer eventually arrives,” explained Peter Cole, Product Manager for the range. “This is a fairly new concept for us to be promoting these products based primarily on their heating benefits.”A heat pump extracts free energy from the surrounding air to maximise efficiency.

This means that for every 1kW of electricity fed into the system over 5kW of energy are available to heat or cool the space. The new range will initially have two models available in 2.5 and 3.5 kW sizes but Mitsubishi is planning to add more high COP models to the range later in the year. The units offer an ultra quiet operation at just 20 and 21 dBA respectively and also come with the ability to connect to an MXZ multi unit for even more flexibility of design and use.Unique to Mitsubishi Electric is the additional ‘Replace’ facility, which can reduce replacement and upgrading costs by potentially allowing users to reuse the existing pipework.Suitable for a huge variety of smaller applications, Mitsubishi Electric’s M Series range offers exceptional performance and efficiency with complete versatility. The new MSZ-FD models come with an infra-red controller as standard and a maximum pipe length of 20 metres and a pipe height of 12 metres.

Both models also include additional advanced features including a plasma duo air filtration and deodorising system, self cleaning functions and the I-See sensor to aid temperature control and efficiency. “For their size, these models offer the best performance in both heating and cooling against anything else in the industry,” ended Cole.

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Important update for ECA Scheme
Wednesday, April 9th, 2008

It isn’t often that the Inland Revenue gives money back, so it’s a good indication of the importance of energy efficiency in buildings that Government is making changes to the Enhanced Capital Allowances Scheme to reflect more accurately how much energy the equipment saves.

VRF heat pumps are the latest equipment to see a change in the way eligibility for ECA’s are calculated. Until recently, heat pumps qualified for the ECA scheme as long as they were labelled Category B or above on the ECU Directive. However, by April 2008 a new method
of assessment will be fully adopted.

The new method applies to air source VRF heat pumps in both split and multisplit systems and the new rules mean that the energy use of the indoor units and outdoor units in any combination has to be measured and accounted for. The latest Mitsubishi Electric Guide
explains how the new system will work, with details on where you can check for eligibility online.

The ECA scheme exists to encourage specifiers and building owners to invest in energy efficient technologies. In order to be eligible, you must select a product which appears on the EnergyTechnology List (ETL).

Manufacturers like Mitsubishi Electric must submit detailed information on the performance of their products and each product must undergo independent testing by a body such as BSRIA. The Carbon Trust then randomly requests a model on the list for various manufacturers.

ECA’s enable a business to claim 100% first-year capital allowances on their spending on machinery or plant that qualifies for the scheme. This means that businesses can write off the whole of the capital cost of their investment in these technologies against their taxable profits. Claiming for ECA’s is simple, because they are claimed in the business corporation tax return in the same way as other capital allowances.

Energy saving technology doesn’t stand still and there are new developments and improvements all the time. If you want to help customers make energy efficient choices then the ECA scheme is a great way for them to see quick payback on their investment.

Posted in News

Increasingly competitive market
Tuesday, March 25th, 2008

Modern convenience stores face a number of challenges in an increasingly competitive market.

New demands are placed on refrigeration and air conditioning systems due to the growing demand for fresh goods, prepared meals, and chilled drinks as well as the need to offer a comfortable environment to shoppers.

Yet conversely, retailers are also faced with the challenge of rising energy prices and the need to reduce CO2 emissions. Daikin, the UK’s market leader in heating and cooling solutions have developed Conveni-pack, a complete and integrated solution for convenience stores.

What does it do?

Conveni-pack is a compact, low noise system which integrates high and low temperature refrigeration and air conditioning, including heating, into one solution.

The Conveni-pack system consists of an inverter driven outdoor unit and indoor air conditioning units that can be connected to high temperature refrigeration cabinets and unit coolers.

Conveni-pack can take heat from the refrigeration cabinets and provide it to the indoor air conditioning to comfort heat for free. Use of this waste heat stabilizes ambient temperatures at no extra cost, improving customer and staff comfort levels.

Conveni-pack saves energy and money

The Conveni-pack system is a sustainable energy solution that is both energy efficient and provides a subsequent reduction in carbon emissions.

Heat recovery provides up to 23% saving in an average year, and with the energy savings of up to 27% from the inverter technology, Conveni-pack has the ability to save up to 50% of energy requirements.

Importantly, this provides a corresponding reduction in carbon emissions when compared to conventional systems.

With the savings in energy, maintenance and low lifetime running costs, Conveni-pack can provide substantial lifetime costs savings, estimated at between £40,000 to £60,000, and a Return on investment of 2 to 3 years based on the premium attached to the capital cost.

Other benefits to the retailer

The Conveni-pack system is compact when compared to conventional options, as its footprint is 60% smaller, allowing its use in applications where space is restricted. This also provides the convenience retailer with the valuable commodity of extra retail space, enhancing the earning potential of the store.

Restricted space and proximity to dwellings can mean that conventional remote refrigeration systems are unsuitable. Conveni-pack is an ideal response to these more stringent requirements, being a compact and modular low noise system.

Conveni-pack equipment attracts an enhanced capital allowance which provides 100% of the capital cost to be claimed against tax in the first year.

Daikin also provides a unique, continuous real time monitoring system as standard with Convenipack. The measurement parameters allow Daikin’s support centre to provide retailers with exception reports and the opportunity to carry out predictive maintenance, meaning no expensive emergency service visits at inconvenient times.

Conveni-pack provides significant benefits and meets the retailer’s challenges
Consumers want their retailers to provide more fresh and ready to go produce, in a convenient location rather than an out of town supermarket. They also increasingly demand that retailers provide a sustainable approach to the environment. This paradox poses a challenge to fulfil both of these obligations.

Conveni-pack provides a complete solution for both of these demands, giving value for money to the retailer through significant energy and lifetime cost savings.

For more information contact the Oakland sales office at 01905 753060 or jr@oaklandgroup.com

Posted in News

What is the D1 Partnership?
Friday, January 11th, 2008

OAKLAND ANSWERS - WHAT IS THE D1 PARTNERSHIP?

Daikin Air conditioning UK Ltd products and systems are marketed and sold through an extensive UK network of installers who act as Daikin direct sales representatives throughout the UK. The D1 Partner Network is a recognised group of highly skilled independent companies who have an active and on-going dialogue with Daikin UK and provide many advantages to the customers they serve. These advantages are explained below and play a vital role in understanding why you should choose a Daikin air conditioning system for your premises and a D1 Partner to install and commission it.

WHY CHOOSE OAKLSND AS YOUR D1 PARTNER FOR YOUR NEW AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM?

Established partners with the full support of Daikin UK.

Expert installers with full design and technical capability.

Detailed quotations explained to you in straightforward terms.

Committed to training and developing installation engineers to the highest standards.

Recognised by Daikin UK with ‘Approved Installer’ status.

Many D1 Partners offer full service and maintenance.

Professional and established businesses with diverse industry experience.

Many D1 Partners are recognised members of industry organisations and the leading trade associations

–providing additional sources of information and expertise for the installer.

Access to tools and knowledge from Daikin UK for the most up to date product applications.

Sensitive to the needs of business, avoiding disruption for customers and their customers.

Extended warranty offering. Fast, efficient and friendly service backed by a global leader and manufacturer.

A PARTNERSHIP BUILT FOR SUCCESS

Daikin UK’s goal is to work in partnership to help our installer customers grow and develop their business through building long term relationships. The D1 Partnership offers Approved Installers a vast range of benefits including technical support, project assistance, marketing and communication information. D1 Partners benefit from being in a network which rewards and promotes them, gets to know what they expect and how to meet their future demands.

DESIGN AND INSTALLATION

D1 Partners are selected by Daikin UK for their high standards of installation and expertise and awarded ‘Approved Installer Status’. Recognition of D1 Partner status provides the end user with peace of mind that the installer is publicly endorsed and supported by Daikin UK. In many cases the D1 Partner can offer full design and technical assistance and provide detailed support information relevant to the project. The D1 Partner acts as a valuable aid to the M & E consultant or architect offering their expertise to the design process.

QUOTATIONS AND PROPOSALS

The D1 Partners are skilled professionals who will provide proposals based on many years’ experience, technical know-how and product knowledge so that you can be confident your new system is the best possible solution, combining operating efficiency with cost.D1 Partners will explain the options available, provide detailed quotes and written recommendations to guide you through the complete process.

PRODUCT TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

One of the key benefits of using a D1 Partner is their access to product training courses from Daikin UK where the goal is to help D1 Partners to continually build upon the skills of their engineers to maintain the highest of industry standards. Daikin UK operates the most comprehensive training facilities in the industry with dedicated centres in Glasgow, Manchester, Birmingham and a state-of-the-art Technology Centre in Woking. Courses are run throughout the year by an expert training team and cover installation, controls on the full range of Daikin products and systems – from apprentice to senior engineer level. This significant investment is undertaken as part of Daikin UK’s overall business strategy and its commitment to maintaining and improving industry standards.

PROFESSIONAL AND ESTABLISHED BUSINESSES

A D1 Partner will have already developed a good working relationship with Daikin UK and have an established client portfolio, product knowledge and experience. By recognising that they are using a D1 Partner, the customer will know that they have a sense of permanence and reliability and can be confident they are dealing with a company that will serve them for many years. D1 Partners are innovative and dynamic, enthusiastic about building their relationship with Daikin UK in order to grow their business, and committed to the highest standards in customer service.

EXTENDED WARRANTY

All Daikin products typically come with a 3 year manufacturer’s warranty on products to demonstrate quality. However, because of Daikin UK’s belief in the standard of D1 Partner installations,D1 Partners are offered a 5 year warranty (subject to conditions). This benefit can be passed on to the customer as a sign of confidence in the quality of both the product and the installation.

OAKLAND SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

Daikin products have an unrivalled reputation for quality and reliability and are manufactured to the highest standards. Continual investment in research and development has resulted in an unmatched product portfolio. Oakland, a D1 Partner, can provide full service and maintenance for optimum efficiency in operation for Daikin air conditioning systems, and provide reassurance in those unlikely events of equipment breakdown.

INDUSTRY STANDARDS AND RECOGNITION

Daikin D1 Partners are in many cases members of the leading trade associations, adding to their credentials as industry experts. Daikin UK positively encourages and supports their D1 Partners to become part of independent recognised organisations who look to continually raise industry standards.

SPECIALIST AIR CONDITIONING TOOLS

Daikin D1 Partners have access to specialist diagnostic tools and design software to enable them to provide the very best possible service to customers.

APPROVED INSTALLER STATUS

This D1 Partner certification shows customers that Oakland are committed to the Daikin brand and Daikin UK is committed to them in every respect.

Posted in News

Welcome to the News !
Monday, December 10th, 2007

Welcome to our News and Article feature on our web-site. Here we will be posting news, information, special offers and all that is happening at the Oakland Group and the Air Conditioning Industry. If you have an RSS Reader, you can also subscribe to our news by clicking the RSS Feed.

Please check back soon when we will be uploading news and information.

Posted in News