The Irene McCoy Gaines Apartments, located at 3700 W. Congress Pkwy., Chicago, IL, is a 17-story affordable housing building for seniors undergoing significant renovations and now features eFlow Constant Airflow Regulators (CARs) for automatically balanced ventilation, energy savings, and high indoor air quality. Originally built in 1964, this retrofit aims to modernize and enhance the living conditions of its residents.
Project Background
Part of the Chicago Housing Authority, the Irene McCoy Gaines Apartments are receiving substantial renovations to update the facilities and improve residents’ quality of life. The project is a joint venture between Skender and Blackwood Group, reflecting a strong commitment to revitalizing senior housing in Chicago.
Project Details
The 17-story building, home to 150 apartments, is being retrofitted with modern amenities. The renovations include updated HVAC systems, installation of eFlow-CARs, electrical and plumbing upgrades, LED lighting, new kitchens and baths, air conditioning, and thermostats in all units. This comprehensive approach ensures a comfortable and efficient living environment for senior residents.
Stakeholders and Roles
Key contributors to the project include:
- General Contractor: Skender, a top 100 construction firm in the nation.
- Installer: Safe-Air / DOWCO
- Product Representative: Hatchell & Associates, Inc
Technical Insights
The project involves the installation of eFlow Constant Airflow Regulators (CARs). Products supplied through Hatchell & Associates, Inc. include 5” CARs set to 30 CFM and 6” CARs set to 100 CFM. These regulators ensure optimal airflow and improved air quality throughout the apartments.
Benefits of Installing Constant Airflow Regulators
- Improved Indoor Air Quality: Ensures a steady flow of fresh air, reducing indoor pollutants.
- Energy Efficiency: Helps in reducing heating and cooling costs by ensuring optimal airflow.
- Enhanced Comfort: Provides a healthier living environment for residents.
Conclusion
The retrofit of Irene McCoy Gaines Apartments demonstrates a strong commitment to enhancing affordable senior housing. By integrating advanced ventilation solutions and modern amenities, this project significantly improves the living conditions for its residents.
Visit eflowusa.net for product information and pricing or email [email protected].
Picture credit: Chicago Housing Authority
Flow-CAR FACTS
eFlow-CAR is a simple solution to balancing ventilation systems. Constant Airflow Regulator is a device that automatically regulates airflows in ventilation systems to constant levels. The passive control element responds to duct pressure, and requires no electric sensors, pneumatic sensors or controls. eFlow-CARs promote high indoor air quality and energy savings.
- UL 2043 Classified
- Composed of fire resistant UL 94 ABS plastic
- Diameters offered: 3”, 4″, 5”, 6”, 8″, 10″
- Operating Pressure Range: 0.08 to 2.4 in w.g. (20-600Pa)
- Airflow settings: 15-765 CFM
- Temperature Limits: -22° to 140°F (-30° to 60°C)
- Suitable for both supply and exhaust applications
- No external power supply needed
- Field Adjustable CFM set point
- Capable of maintaining constant airflow within +- 5% for nominal airflow throughout the target operating pressure range of 0.08 to 2.4 in.
- Standard for Energy Efficient Compliance
