The Challenge:

Naples, Florida, is home to a Museum hosting a priceless collection of more than 100 of the most significant automobiles built between 1896 and 1995. These vehicles are not only rare but are also maintained in operational condition, with some participating in historic races. The museum’s open exhibit design allows visitors to stand mere inches from these irreplaceable machines, underscoring the need for precise environmental control.

When the Institute needed a full HVAC overhaul, maintaining tight temperature and humidity control was essential to protect the collection. The work had to be completed without disrupting operations or risking the condition of any vehicles. Although ACT wasn’t licensed in Florida at the time, the client had worked with us for years and insisted we were the only team they trusted. At their request, we obtained the necessary licensure to handle the project.

Scope of Work:

• Full HVAC system replacement within an 80,000 sq. ft. museum
• Removal and replacement of 15 chilled water air handlers
• Demolition of two 120-ton chillers and installation of new chilled water systems
• Custom temporary cooling and humidity controls to protect on-site artifacts throughout the project
• Refurbish the commercial cooling tower, replacing all deteriorated drift eliminators, thoroughly cleaning the basin, sealing joints, and upgrading corroded hardware.

Our Response:

ACT developed and implemented a phased replacement plan that ensured continuous environmental control throughout the project. Key actions included:

• Fast tracking the process of getting Licensed & setup in the State of Florida
• Installing a temporary chiller and custom air handler solution to maintain critical temperature and humidity levels during each phase
• Carefully removing 15 chilled water air handlers and two 120-ton chillers
• Installing new high-efficiency systems with minimal disruption to the museum’s daily operations
• A full refurbishment of the commercial cooling tower, restoring it to peak operating efficiency.
• Removed and replaced all existing drift eliminators, which had become brittle and ineffective due to age and environmental exposure.
• Employing strategic barriers and protective measures to safeguard the precious vehicles and exhibits during construction

Given the proximity of the HVAC systems to the valuable automobiles, our team exercised the highest level of precision and care, ensuring that each step of the process upheld the museum’s standards for artifact preservation.

The Outcome:

The Cooling Tower Refurb and Upgrade not only improved water retention and airflow efficiency but also supports compliance with safety and environmental standards

Throughout the HVAC system overhaul, the museum remained fully operational, with no loss of climate control or disruption to its exhibits. The project was completed on schedule, and the client expressed satisfaction with both the process and the results.

This successful collaboration led to additional projects with the museum, reflecting trust and confidence in ACT’s expertise and commitment to excellence.