Hospital Chiller #2 Replacement Project

Montefiore is undertaking a major mechanical infrastructure upgrade with the replacement of an existing 800-ton steam absorption chiller with a new 800-ton electric centrifugal chiller, located in the hospital’s basement mechanical room. The project scope includes installation of a new 460V step-up transformer, integration with the existing electric York chiller through the building management system (BMS) in a lead-lag configuration, and reuse of existing chilled water and condenser water pumps. Additional scope items include refrigerant sensor integration, removal of obsolete condenser water control valves, and verification of ventilation systems to ensure compliance with the NYC Mechanical Code. Electrical modifications involve connection to an available 4000-amp service board, pending Con Edison approval. Because the work is being carried out in an active hospital setting, planning and sequencing are critical to avoid disruption to healthcare operations. Construction activities are phased around patient care needs, with temporary cooling strategies in place to maintain environmental stability throughout the project. Coordination with Con Edison, facilities staff, and regulatory agencies ensures timely approvals and adherence to all safety and mechanical code requirements. Off-hour work and phased tie-ins allow uninterrupted use of critical hospital spaces while new systems are commissioned. The upgraded electric centrifugal chiller is designed for future emergency power capacity, enhancing both system resiliency and energy efficiency. By replacing aging infrastructure with modern equipment, the project ensures reliable year-round cooling, reduces energy costs, and supports uninterrupted hospital operations while aligning with Montefiore’s long-term sustainability and modernization goals.