Comfortable conditions for all at the aquarium
Client: General Contractor
Location: Tacoma, WA, USA
Sectors: Construction
The Challenge
Heat without the stress for aquarium-dwellers
Point Defiance Zoo in Washington was in the process of an aquarium expansion project to build a new shark tank and sea life aquarium. The construction company tasked with the build needed to find a way to heat the interior of the all-concrete structures to the required 65°F. On top of getting clean, warm air into the area, the equipment would need to keep noise levels low enough so as not to disturb the sea life or visitors. What’s more, they needed something that would be fuel efficient and capable of running for an extended period of time without being constantly refuelled.
Key Facts
The Solution
Quiet, low-power, fuel-efficient heaters
After joining the construction team for a site walk to figure out the best approach, we suggested a customized plan, including three diesel-powered, indirect fired heaters. With the capabilities to put out 500,000 BTU, these units operate at only 60db (about conversation-level), so noise wouldn’t trouble those in the water or dry land. Not only could these run on low power for extended periods, we also hooked them up to external fuel tanks for maximum fuel efficiency, making refuelling an even rarer demand.
The Impact
A system so flawless no one noticed it there
The setup worked perfectly, heating the structures to a comfortable 65°F. Our plan was so quiet and effective that guests of the zoo, both those who drive home and those that call it home, didn’t notice the heating modules. In fact, the superintendent was so thrilled with the on-time, hiccup-free installation and performance that he called a few months later to discuss the next project!