Mechanical, Plumbing, and Refrigeration Prototype Design

Founded in 1930, Publix Food Stores now operates over 1,300 food markets in the United States. To expand its appeal to new shoppers, the company developed a store format called GreenWise Market, which features organic, fresh, and prepared foods.

Publix hired Erdman Anthony to do the mechanical, plumbing, and refrigeration prototype work for this new GreenWise concept. The entire effort was done using Revit, including the refrigeration work. GreenWise stores now have central refrigeration systems that use transcritical and cascade CO2 racks. 

The HVAC system was designed to use dual-path mechanical rooftop units with heat recovery to provide an efficient system for good ventilation while holding relative humidity (RH) below 50%. Low RH is important in food stores, as condensation on refrigerated cases is detrimental to sales. 

The plumbing spec included hot-water heat recovery from the refrigeration and water-efficient, hands-free fixtures. Moreover, locations with large parking lots have a hydroponic trailer where produce is grown to sell in the store, using reclaimed rainwater from the roof. 

Sustainable Design Impact This prototype work showcases the potential of eco-conscious design, whether that means using nontoxic refrigerant or boosting cooling performance.