By Fawn Staerkel, Director of Healthcare Strategic Accounts, Johnson Controls

The COO of an expansive southern healthcare network had been tasked with making infrastructure updates to one of the network’s facilities while simultaneously reducing its operating costs. This seemingly impossible task would require the facility to implement updated building technologies and systems but also uncover hidden savings opportunities. The goal was to create a comfortable, intelligent and cost-efficient healthcare environment.

HVAC, lighting and water upgrades for maximum comfort and savings

Because of Johnson Controls extensive experience with upgrading older healthcare facilities, and its proven track record of identifying cost-saving measures, it was approached by the COO with this challenge. Upon signing on, Johnson Controls experts provided retrofitting to the facility’s HVAC system by adding new air handlers, a new chiller and central energy plant controls. These updates would not only make the facility more comfortable for occupants, but also more efficient. To further these efforts, the Johnson Controls team implemented a new lighting system and increased the water efficiency.

Infrastructure improvements that create long-term cost savings

The HVAC updates have helped create a more comfortable healthcare facility for staff, patients and visitors, while the updated controls give facility managers greater insight into their operations. This retrofitting will help the facility save on utility costs, allowing cost reduction while meeting crucial infrastructure improvements. In combination with other improvements Johnson Controls has performed for the healthcare network, this project brings the network’s total savings as a result of this partnership to $45 million.

With healthcare facilities and hospitals working to respond to the COVID-19 crisis, identifying opportunities for cost efficiency is more important than ever. These savings can be re-directed to a safe and healthy pandemic response, powering the mission for exemplary patient care.

Learn more about how Johnson Controls supports healthcare facilities and hospitals every day.