Facility name: P-SL Medical Center
Location: DENVER, CO
Project classification: Hospital – Renovation
Project type: Acute Care
Project number: 2720000020
Lesson Learned number: 114
Impact: Cost, Schedule, Quality, Scope
Cost impact: $108,706
Lesson Learned/Best Practice
In November of 2019, AHU-01 sustained some damage to the filter rack from sucking in snow and clogging the filters. Because the unit is 100% outside air the snow did not melt before reaching the filters. The filter rack was repaired by JCI under warranty. In order to prevent this from happening again during another large snow storm, WSP has directed Layton to install two new larger hoods, 72″ deep in order to reduce the suction at the hoods and install a SnoStop product that is a heat traced pre-filter that will melt the snow before entering the unit.
Suggested Actions for Future Projects
Anytime a 100% outside air AHU is to be used in this region, a SnowStop device should be incorporated into the original design.
Actions Taken / Current Status
HCA comment: This is a best practice in climates where it snows. Please note the devices can be any type that performs the function. SnoStop is a brand and HCA is not endorsing the brand in this comment.