Air handling unit replacement at Tesco Baguley
Retail Case Study
Project Overview.
INTOHEAT were appointed as both designer and principal contractor to deliver a full air handling unit (AHU) replacement at Tesco Baguley. This project formed part of a wider decarbonisation strategy, introducing modern heat pump technology to improve energy performance, reduce reliance on fossil fuels and future-proof the store’s HVAC infrastructure.
Delivered within a live retail environment, the scheme required careful planning, technical expertise and a proactive approach to ensure minimal disruption while maintaining a safe, efficient and fully operational store.
The Project
Project Name
Air handling unit replacement at Tesco Baguley
Location
Baguley, Manchester
Sector
Retail
End Purpose
Introducing modern heat pump technology to work towards a decarbonisation strategy
The People
Client
TESCO
Designer
INTOHEAT Ltd
Principal Contractor
INTOHEAT Ltd
Project Overview.
The existing AHU had been in operation for over 30 years and was supported by gas-fired boilers via a low-temperature hot water (LTHW) system. Having reached the end of its lifecycle, the unit was operating with reduced efficiency, increasing maintenance demands and no longer aligned with current energy performance standards.
Delivering major building services within a busy retail environment introduced a number of operational and logistical challenges. Maintaining the day-to-day shopping experience was critical, requiring works to be carefully phased and coordinated to minimise disruption to store operations.
In addition, the installation of new rooftop plant also presented significant technical challenges, including structural compliance, safe access for ongoing maintenance, and the coordination of crane lifts within a restricted site footprint.
INTOHEAT addressed these challenges by developing a future-focused replacement solution incorporating heat pump technology and modern refrigeration design.
A key element of the project was the use of R32 refrigerant across 12 heat pumps, delivering improved environmental performance and system efficiency. These were integrated seamlessly with direct expansion (DX) coils within the new AHU, effectively serving two distinct store zones.
This project demonstrates how a well-planned, strategically delivered HVAC upgrade can achieve measurable improvements in performance and sustainability. By combining innovative refrigerant choices such as R32, with low-impact delivery in a live environment, INTOHEAT has supported Tesco in meeting both its immediate operational needs and long-term environmental objectives.
