Make Up Air and Exhaust System Experts in Maple Grove, MN & surrounding areas

Make up air and exhaust systems form the backbone of proper ventilation in commercial and industrial facilities. At Heating & Cooling Two, Inc., we specialize in designing and installing these critical systems that maintain indoor air quality while meeting stringent building codes. Make up air units replace air that’s being exhausted from your facility, preventing negative pressure situations that can cause backdrafting, difficult-to-open doors, and inefficient heating or cooling operations.

The balance between exhaust and make up air is crucial for maintaining optimal building performance. When exhaust fans remove air from kitchens, manufacturing areas, or other spaces, that air must be replaced to maintain proper pressure relationships. Our NATE-certified technicians understand these complex dynamics and create solutions tailored to your specific facility requirements. Since first opening our doors in 1980, we’ve installed hundreds of these systems throughout Rogers, Dayton, Osseo, Champlin, Maple Grove, Otsego, Brooklyn Park, Plymouth, Corcoran, Anoka, Brooklyn Center, Medina, New Hope, Crystal, Wayzata, Orono, and Minnetonka, MN, each one customized to meet unique operational demands.

Commercial Kitchen Ventilation Solutions

Restaurant and commercial kitchen operations require specialized make up air systems to comply with health codes and maintain comfortable working conditions. Kitchen exhaust hoods remove large volumes of air laden with grease, smoke, and heat. Without proper make up air, kitchens experience negative pressure that pulls unconditioned air through cracks and openings, creating drafts and temperature control issues. We design systems that introduce tempered make up air directly to the cooking area, improving employee comfort while reducing energy costs.

Our installation process begins with comprehensive load calculations to determine the exact amount of make up air required. We consider factors including hood exhaust rates, building infiltration, and other exhaust systems operating simultaneously. The make up air units we install feature modulating controls that adjust airflow based on cooking demand, maximizing energy efficiency. Many units incorporate direct-fired heating capabilities, providing tempered air even during Minnesota’s coldest months without overloading the building’s primary heating system.

Industrial and Manufacturing Applications

Manufacturing facilities present unique challenges for make up air system design. Processes like welding, painting, and chemical handling require robust exhaust systems to remove contaminants. We engineer make up air solutions that maintain proper pressurization while accounting for process-specific requirements. Our systems prevent cross-contamination between different manufacturing areas and ensure compliance with OSHA air quality standards.

Industrial make up air units must withstand demanding conditions while providing reliable performance year-round. We specify equipment with heavy-duty construction, corrosion-resistant materials, and advanced filtration systems. Variable frequency drives allow precise airflow control, adapting to changing production schedules and seasonal variations. Integration with building automation systems enables remote monitoring and control, helping facility managers optimize performance and identify maintenance needs before problems develop.

Energy Recovery and Efficiency Features

Modern make up air systems incorporate energy recovery technology to reduce operating costs. Heat recovery wheels, plate exchangers, and run-around loops capture energy from exhaust air streams and transfer it to incoming make up air. This process can recover up to 80% of exhaust air energy, dramatically reducing heating and cooling loads. We analyze each application to determine which energy recovery method provides the best return on investment.

• Direct-fired heating systems provide 100% combustion efficiency for winter heating
• Evaporative cooling options reduce summer cooling costs in appropriate climates
• Demand-controlled ventilation adjusts airflow based on occupancy and air quality sensors
• High-efficiency motors and drives minimize electrical consumption

Installation Process and Code Compliance

Proper installation requires coordination between multiple trades and careful attention to code requirements. Our experienced teams handle all aspects of make up air system installation, from equipment placement to ductwork fabrication and control wiring. We obtain necessary permits and coordinate inspections throughout the Maple Grove, MN & surrounding areas, ensuring your system meets all applicable codes and standards.

The installation process typically begins with structural evaluation to ensure adequate support for rooftop units. We coordinate with electricians for power connections and integrate controls with existing building management systems. Ductwork design considers pressure drops, noise levels, and air distribution patterns. Start-up and commissioning procedures verify proper operation, including airflow measurements, temperature control calibration, and safety device testing. Our commitment to quality installation reflects the values Heating & Cooling Two, Inc. has maintained as a family-owned and operated HVAC company, always prioritizing people over profit while earning our position as the premier HVAC contractor in the Twin Cities metro area.