Updated June 19, 2025
Case Study: Domestic Hot Water Heater Upgrade on Manhattan’s Upper West Side
A residential building on Manhattan’s Upper West Side was facing high energy costs and unreliable hot water due to an outdated domestic hot water system. The original gas-fired heaters were oversized, inefficient, and lacked modern firing control, driving up operating costs and frustrating residents.
A Smarter, More Efficient System
Metro Group replaced the outdated equipment with a high-efficiency domestic hot water heater featuring multi-stage firing technology and full integration with the building’s Building Management System (BMS). This system automatically adjusts in real time based on demand, significantly improving performance and energy efficiency.
Key Benefits:
Real-time demand response through BMS integration
- Respond dynamically to changing usage patterns
- Operate more efficiently under varying loads
- Reduce maintenance issues through smarter controls
- Help meet sustainability goals and local energy regulations
- Close coordination with building management for a smooth upgrade
Our mechanical and electrical teams completed the installation quickly and efficiently, ensuring uninterrupted service and long-term improvements in system reliability.
Why BMS Integration Matters
A Building Management System (BMS) allows centralized control and monitoring of a building’s mechanical systems, including HVAC and hot water. Integrating your hot water system with a BMS means it can:
- Respond dynamically to changing usage patterns
- Operate more efficiently under varying loads
- Reduce maintenance issues through smarter controls
- Help meet sustainability goals and local energy regulations
For NYC property managers, BMS integration is a smart investment for efficiency and tenant satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why should I replace my building’s old domestic hot water heater?
Older systems are inefficient and expensive to maintain. Upgrading cuts energy costs and improves tenant comfort.
What is a Building Management System (BMS)?
A BMS centrally manages a building’s mechanical and electrical systems, improving control, efficiency, and reliability when integrated with your hot water system.
Will residents lose access to hot water during the upgrade?
Metro Group schedules work to minimize or eliminate downtime, ensuring residents have continuous hot water.
How long does a domestic hot water heater installation take?
Each project varies, but with proper planning, installations are completed quickly and efficiently.
How do I know if my building needs an upgrade?
Common signs include rising energy bills, inconsistent water temperature, long recovery times, or aging equipment. Metro Group offers assessments to determine the best solution.
Ready to Upgrade?
Metro Group specializes in domestic hot water heater replacements, BMS integration, and energy-efficient mechanical and electrical upgrades for NYC buildings. Whether you manage a residential or commercial property, our licensed teams deliver smart solutions with minimal disruption.
Contact us today to schedule a site evaluation or learn more about our high-efficiency boiler replacement or boiler services.
Case Study: How Metro Group Upgraded a 1950s Steam Boiler for Maximum Efficiency
At Metro Group, we understand the importance of providing our clients with cost-effective, energy-efficient solutions that meet their specific needs. In this case study, we’ll walk you through how we helped a building owner in Westchester County upgrade their outdated heating system, reduce energy waste, and ensure reliable heating throughout the year.
What Challenges Did the Building Face with Its Old Heating System?
The building in question had been using a steam boiler from the 1950s, originally designed to burn coal. Over the years, this system became inefficient, difficult to maintain, and costly to operate. As the winter season approached, the building owner knew it was time for an upgrade but was unsure where to start.
How Did Metro Group Improve Energy Efficiency for the Building Owner?
Metro Group stepped in to provide a solution tailored to the building’s unique needs. We replaced the outdated coal-burning steam boiler with a modern, high-efficiency scotch marine boiler/burner package capable of burning both gas and oil. This new system offers the flexibility of using whichever fuel source is most cost-effective at any given time, helping the building owner save on heating costs.
What Upgrades Did We Make to Ensure Year-Round Comfort?
Beyond the new boiler, Metro Group made several key upgrades to improve the building’s heating and hot water systems:
- Gas-Fired Domestic Hot Water Heater: To meet the building’s hot water needs during the summer months, we installed a dedicated gas-fired domestic hot water heater. This keeps the primary heating system from being overburdened and reduces energy consumption.
- Boiler Hot Water Coil with Electronic Tempering Valve: For winter, the new system includes a hot water coil with an electronic tempering valve, ensuring a steady supply of hot water regardless of outdoor temperatures. This solution provides both heating and hot water efficiently and reliably.
- Programmable Heat Control System: We installed a programmable heat control system that adjusts the building’s heating based on occupancy patterns. This prevents overheating and minimizes energy waste by ensuring that the building is only heated when necessary.
What Were the Results of This Heating System Upgrade?
Thanks to these upgrades, the building now has a much more efficient and reliable heating system that meets the needs of its tenants year-round. The new system reduces energy waste, avoids costly overheating, and ensures optimal comfort throughout the colder months. By completing the project just in time for the winter season, the building owner is ready to face the season with a more efficient and cost-effective system in place.
Why Choose Metro Group for Your Building’s Heating System Needs?
Metro Group has been the trusted source for building solutions since 1925. We are committed to helping building owners like you improve energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and maintain optimal comfort. Our team of experienced mechanical and electrical experts specialize in customized solutions that deliver long-term value and performance. Whether you need a complete system overhaul or a more energy-efficient upgrade, we are here to help.
Ready to Upgrade Your Heating System?
If your building’s heating system is outdated or inefficient, now is the time to make a change. Contact us today to learn how we can help you save energy and money with a customized, high-efficiency boiler replacement or boiler service for your building.
