Commercial Air Conditioning Installation

Project Overview

When Tesco’s Swindon location approached us with its climate control requirements, we recognised the project’s complexity and scale. As a leading retailer operating in a high-traffic environment, the installation demanded precision, efficiency, and expert coordination. Our team understood that success required more than simply installing air conditioning units—it necessitated a detailed approach to provide optimal shopping conditions while safeguarding the store’s daily operations.

Client Background

Tesco, one of Britain’s largest retailers, maintains strict environmental control standards in its stores. These standards are critical, as they directly influence customer comfort, staff well-being, and product preservation. Their Swindon location required a sophisticated climate control solution capable of managing temperatures across the sales floor and storage areas while upholding Tesco’s commitment to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Initial Assessment

After receiving the specifications from Tesco’s design team, our technical specialists conducted a thorough site evaluation. Collaborating with the main contractor, we developed a tailored implementation plan covering every aspect of the installation:

Equipment placement across multiple zones:
- Salesfloor assessment: Placement of two cassette units, considering ceiling height, structural supports, and optimal air distribution.
- Storage area evaluation: Installation of one cassette unit to provide stock protection and temperature stability.
Access point analysis for equipment delivery and installation.
Power supply and electrical integration planning.
Strategic positioning of control interfaces for staff accessibility.
Assessment of existing building services to provide seamless integration.

Project Scope

The installation required meticulous planning and execution to guarantee:

Full compliance with Tesco’s design requirements.
Adherence to current building regulations and safety standards.
REFCOM accreditation for commercial installations.
Compliance with SafeContractor-accredited guidelines for retail environments.
Completion of all works within an overnight timeframe to prevent disruption to trading hours.
Detailed maintenance documentation for future use.

Leveraging our over thirty years of commercial installation expertise, we developed a comprehensive strategy that incorporates contingency planning and rigorous quality control measures at every stage.

Project Challenges and Solutions

Time-Sensitive Installation

The primary challenge was minimising disruption to Tesco’s trading hours. To achieve this, we designed an overnight installation schedule that maximised efficiency while protecting store operations.

Our team provided seamless execution through the following:

Pre-installation Planning:
- Organising equipment and materials staging.
- Establishing precise timelines for each phase.
- Coordinating access protocols with store management.
- Implementing protective measures for retail displays.
Continuous communication among team members.
Real-time progress tracking to monitor milestones.
Contingency planning to address unforeseen challenges.

Technical Implementation

Following Tesco’s design specifications, we selected and installed Daikin systems, renowned for their reliability in commercial environments. The installation involved several key phases that required expert precision.

Sales Floor Implementation

Installing the cassette units on the sales floor required careful planning to integrate with the existing infrastructure. This process included:

Ceiling system integration:
- Adjusting the ceiling grid for seamless integration.
- Installing additional support frameworks.
- Precisely aligning units for optimal airflow.
- Connecting to existing building services.
Protective measures:
- Temporary barriers to shield retail areas.
- Dust control systems to maintain cleanliness.
- Covering retail displays and floor surfaces.

Storage Area Solutions

The storage area presented unique challenges, particularly regarding stock protection and temperature regulation. Our approach included:

Stock protection protocols:
- Managing temperature-sensitive inventory.
- Implementing dust and debris control measures.
- Establishing designated equipment staging areas.
Technical considerations:
- Providing maintenance accessibility.
- Integrating with existing climate control systems.
- Optimising airflow management.

Quality Assurance

Throughout the project, our REFCOM-accredited team implemented rigorous quality control procedures, including:

Component testing and system verification.
Performance assessments and compliance checks.
Final safety inspections before store reopening.

Project Completion and Results

System Commissioning

Before handover, our team conducted a series of tests to confirm system efficiency:

Temperature control assessments: Evaluating airflow distribution, response times, and thermal consistency.
System operation verification: Confirming control system responsiveness and energy efficiency.
Performance metrics analysis: Measuring power consumption, humidity levels, and noise output.

Site Restoration

To provide a seamless transition back to retail operations, our team performed:

Systematic removal of equipment and tools.
Final safety inspections and access point verification.
Deep cleaning and display restoration.

Performance Verification and Staff Training

The morning after installation, we conducted operational checks with store management, covering:

System functionality validation.
Temperature adjustment training for staff.
Maintenance and troubleshooting guidance.
Compliance checks to assure adherence to safety and energy efficiency standards.

Client Satisfaction

Tesco was highly satisfied with the project’s success, which led to additional collaborations. At Controlled Climate Ltd., we apply the same level of expertise and commitment to every commercial installation.

Project Impact

The new air conditioning system delivered significant benefits:

Operational Efficiency

Enhanced climate control: Consistent temperatures for both sales and storage areas.
Optimised energy use: Reduced power consumption and increased efficiency.
Improved workplace environment: Better conditions for staff and customers.

Business Continuity

Zero disruption to store trading hours.
Maintained customer access throughout the installation.
Preserved revenue by avoiding downtime.

Long-Term Value

High-quality Daikin components for lasting performance.
Comprehensive warranty protection.
Professional maintenance support and technical backup.

Looking Forward

Expert Climate Control Solutions

Based near Bristol, we serve clients across a 60-mile radius, including Swindon, Bath, Weston-super-Mare, and many surrounding areas. Our services include: