It depends on the complexity of the project (how many hoods, configuration, etc.). To offer a benchmark, we can install all the sensors for three hoods in one day. Most retrofit installations take place overnight to prevent interrupting the daily kitchen operations.
Archives: FAQs
Can the controls be installed into existing kitchens?
Absolutely. We are comfortable with existing kitchen applications and are accustomed to overcoming challenges that come with them. We’ve worked with a huge variety of hood types and system configurations. Our installations cover nearly every market and location – from the top of a mountain to the water line on maritime vessels. No kidding. Our highest installation is at 11,212 feet above sea level. And sometimes the maritime installations go below sea level, depending on how big the waves are.
Whatever the location, your Intelli-Hood system will be installed by our global team of Melink employed or certified installers.
What factors affect the cost and energy savings of demand control kitchen ventilation?
1) Size of the kitchen ventilation system
2) Hours of operation at reduced airflow
3) Climate of your food service facility
4) Available utility rebates
5) Cost of electricity
6) Indirect factors such as improved kitchen comfort and decreased noise
What about dampers? How do you control them?
We have tested and have the ability to control dampers. But we do not practice it or recommend doing it because the minimum energy savings to be gained does not outweigh the risk and life safety of the facility.
The first priority for a Type 1 grease duct is to extract grease-laden air from the kitchen hood and maintain the safety of the occupants in the building. Any obstructions in the air flow prevent the duct from performing its core life safety mission. And Melink does not advocate the usage of modulating dampers as a control strategy.
Is there a demand control ventilation savings calculator? How are those savings calculated?
We offer an Energy Saving Report, which provides a comprehensive overview of energy savings with Intelli-Hood installed. Fill out the contact form at the bottom of our Intelli-Hood page to submit your site information. We’re always glad to help.
How will DCKV impact my bottom line?
DCKV will reduce your operating costs. Factors that help determine the total impact include operational hours, cost of energy, heating and cooling loads, and the efficiency of your HVAC equipment.
Do I need to have direct-drive fans installed to be compatible with the controls?
No, while direct-drive fans are becoming more popular, they are not a requirement for Intelli-Hood.
Does the Intelli-Hood control the make-up air unit as well?
Yes, Intelli-Hood controls both the exhaust and make-up air unit or supply fan in concert with the exhaust to maintain space pressure. Typically, the system will take direct control of the supply fan. However, there are various options available depending on your building’s application. There are numerous analog and digital I/Os available to interface with the sites BAS/BMS system.
Can the Intelli-Hood be integrated with a building management system?
Sure thing. It probably wouldn’t be too “intelligent” if it couldn’t. There are several methods available to talk with your building management system about, including BACnet /IP, digital inputs, digital outputs, scalable 0-10vDC or 0-20mA percent speed references. Our applications engineers are here to help. Please send us an email or give us a call at 513-965-7300. You can also view our Bacnet Protocol Implementation Conformance Statement (PICS) on our resources page.
What if I don’t have three-phase power on site?
We can take a 115v or 230v single-phase input through our VFDs and convert it to 208v three-phase. These are special drives, and so we are limited to 1-1/2 hp on the 115v input.
