SITE BITE: Correcting Improperly Installed Chilled Water Coils.

Recently, I was on-site at one of the many hospitals we support across Florida to measure six chilled water coils for replacement. As I reviewed the existing units, I was shocked to find that all six had been installed as left-hand coils. But here's the catch — only three of them should have been left-handed; the other three needed to be right-handed.

This kind of error can have serious consequences, especially in critical environments like hospitals where HVAC performance directly impacts patient comfort and safety. The wrong coil orientation affects airflow and heat transfer, which leads to reduced efficiency and poor indoor air quality.

What’s more, each row of the coil can cause a 2-3% efficiency loss if installed incorrectly. For this six-row system, that meant a potential 15% drop in overall performance. Over time, this translates into higher energy costs, less cooling capacity, and unnecessary wear on the system.

Luckily, I caught the mistake early during the inspection and ensured the correct coils were ordered and installed. It's a simple fix, but one that could easily be overlooked without the right expertise.

That’s why working with an experienced commercial coil provider like Nationwide Coils is so important. We understand the nuances of coil orientation, airflow direction, and proper installation — all of which are essential for maintaining peak HVAC performance.

Whether you're replacing coils or installing new systems, make sure you're getting the right product every time. Let us handle the details so you can focus on what matters most — keeping your building comfortable and efficient.