Building services: retail chiller replacement

Chiller removal, pipework redesign and replacement installation for roof access
Location:
City centre retail site, UK
Project duration:
Several weeks

Overview

Our team supported a high-street clothing retailer in removing and replacing a 5-tonne chiller unit, allowing urgent roof repairs on a listed building. The work required careful planning to minimise disruption and ensure the cooling system was back online quickly.

The challenge

A large rooftop chiller blocked access to a damaged roof. The client needed to remove the old unit, carry out repairs, then install a new system with redesigned chilled water pipework – all while keeping store operations running and managing logistics in a busy city centre.

Our approach

  • Planning and permits – We carried out a full site assessment and worked with local authorities to secure road closure permits for crane access.
  • Crane operation – Chiller removal and installation were timed for Sundays to limit disruption. Lifts were carried out safely with full road closures in place.
  • Pipework redesign and roof repairs – We rerouted and upgraded the chilled water pipework during roof repairs to boost efficiency and ease future maintenance.
  • Installation and commissioning – The new chiller was installed via crane and fully commissioned by our engineers, ensuring the system was ready for use.

The results

  • Zero operational disruption – all work completed without affecting store hours or public access
  • Improved system efficiency – upgraded pipework and new chiller design support better performance
  • Safe, compliant delivery – complex lifts completed safely and within agreed timescales