Letsos Company recently replaced a deteriorating fluid cooler at a historic Houston building with a new, more efficient, and sustainable Marley MH Element Fluid Cooler from SPX Cooling Tech, LLC. This upgrade not only maintained the original footprint of the cooling system but also simplified the installation process, offering a modern solution to the building's ongoing HVAC issues.
Revitalizing an Icon
The former Plaza Hotel, a nine-story landmark located in Houston's Museum District, was once famous for its luxurious offerings and cutting-edge air conditioning system. Originally built in 1926, the building has undergone several renovations to preserve its historical significance, with Letsos Company maintaining its HVAC system for nearly a decade.
In early 2023, after repeated issues with the fluid cooler and condenser water systems, the decision was made to replace the cooler. Letsos teamed up with Houston-based S&S HVAC Equipment to assess the options. The Marley Fluid Cooler, featuring stainless steel construction and copper coils, was chosen for its enhanced performance and durability.
Navigating a Busy Location
The Plaza Hotel building, now home to multiple businesses, is located in a busy area. To ensure a smooth installation, permits were secured to close a nearby street, allowing a crane to lift the new fluid cooler into position on the back side of the building, atop a parking garage.
Despite the tight urban environment, the project progressed efficiently, with careful coordination to minimize disruptions.
Overcoming Setbacks
While inspecting the fluid cooler upon delivery, the team discovered that a brace had been damaged during shipping. Fortunately, S&S HVAC Equipment acted quickly, repairing the brace onsite and obtaining immediate approval from SPX Cooling’s engineering team to proceed with installation.
Successful Installation and Start-Up
After the repair, the project continued on schedule. The fluid cooler was installed and piped in by the next day, with the start-up process completed by Saturday evening. Minor issues with the control system were addressed promptly, and the cooler has since operated smoothly.
Today, the former Plaza Hotel, now housing various businesses including Prosperity Bank, enjoys efficient and reliable cooling, thanks to Letsos Company’s successful installation of the Marley MH Element Fluid Cooler.
