Repiping a Landmark: Energy-Efficient Heating for 1,620 NYCHA Homes
Project Overview
Williamsburg Houses is a 1,620-unit, 20-building New York City Public Housing complex located at 87 Ten Eyck Street, Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY. Originally completed in 1938, it is a designated New York City Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As part of a $490M rehabilitation effort under NYCHA’s PACT program, the heating system was modernized to replace aging steam infrastructure with a more efficient and cost-effective hot water distribution system utilizing aquatechnik fusion piping technology.
Project Details
Location: Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY
- Building Specs: 1,620 residential units across 20 buildings
- Scope: Replacement of outdated underground steam piping with aquatechnik insulated
fusion piping and Safety-Pol PEX-AL-PEX risers - Timeline: Completed in under four weeks per building
Project Scope & Execution
The original underground steam piping and internal steam risers were removed and
replaced with pre-insulated aquatechnik underground piping, improving thermal efficiency
and simplifying installation. Inside the buildings, the system transitioned to uninsulated
aquatechnik fusion piping, which distributes hot water through the cellars before
branching into Safety-Pol PEX-AL-PEX risers. These risers supply hot water to low temperature
panel radiators installed in individual apartments, enhancing heating
efficiency and comfort for residents.
Key Benefits & Results
- Rapid Installation: The contractor completed each building within four weeks,
minimizing disruptions to residents. - Significant Cost Savings: The ease of installation and reduced labor requirements led
to lower overall project costs. - Long-Term Durability: The corrosion-resistant PEX-AL-PEX risers and insulated
underground piping ensure long-term performance and reliability. - Improved Energy Efficiency: The switch from steam to hot water heating resulted in
better thermal retention and reduced energy consumption. - Contractor Preference: The contractor, well-versed in aquatechnik products,
continues to implement this solution in multiple NYCHA projects due to its reliability
and cost benefits.
Training & Support
aquatechnik Sales Representatives, Rathe Associates, provided comprehensive training and onsite support to ensure seamless adoption of aquatechnik piping systems. This hands-on assistance helped streamline installation, equipping the team with best practices for fusion welding and rapid connection fittings.
Conclusion
The Williamsburg Houses heating system modernization showcases the effectiveness of aquatechnik piping solutions in large-scale public housing projects. By transitioning from outdated steam infrastructure to a modern, energy-efficient hot water system, the project not only enhanced system reliability but also delivered long-term savings in both energy and labor costs. With its success, this approach is now being replicated in additional NYCHA developments, setting a new standard for public housing heating modernization.
