ANC Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. recently completed a comprehensive heating system transformation at the Lifelong Community Center in Ithaca, New York, replacing aging natural gas units with an advanced Daikin cold climate Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) heat pump system. The project demonstrates the growing trend of commercial facilities transitioning to all-electric heating and cooling solutions while eliminating fossil fuel dependency.
The Lifelong Community Center, which serves adults aged 50 and older in the Ithaca area, faced significant challenges when three of their four HVAC systems failed as cold weather approached. The facility required an immediate solution that would not only restore heating capabilities but also align with their sustainability goals and improve overall comfort throughout the building's diverse spaces, including offices, activity rooms, and common areas.
ANC Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. designed and installed four independent VRF systems to provide zone-specific climate control across the facility. The installation included a variety of indoor unit types—wall-mounted, ceiling cassette, floor console, and ducted options—customized to meet the specific needs of each space. Additionally, two RenewAire energy recovery ventilators were integrated to ensure proper fresh air circulation throughout the building.
"The Lifelong Facility was looking to transition from using natural gas to an all-electric high efficient Cold Climate Heat Pump system. System Design, Budget, System Incentives, and Installation Timeframe were fast tracked due to failed existing equipment. ANC accomplished just that, added comfort and eliminating the need to natural gas," said Lloyd Knecht III, Owner of ANC Heating & Air Conditioning Inc.
The Conversion from Natural Gas to Cold Climate Heat Pump in Ithaca NY resulted in significant benefits for the community center. The new system provides quiet, efficient operation with individual thermostats offering precise zone-by-zone temperature control. The all-electric design successfully eliminated the facility's reliance on fossil fuels while improving indoor air quality and comfort levels across all areas of the building.
Liza Burger, Executive Director of Lifelong, praised the installation team's responsiveness and expertise. "Just as the weather turned cold, three of our four HVAC systems failed. ANC guided us through every step with professionalism and care. They fast-tracked design, rebates, and installation — even keeping our building warm the whole time. Thanks to ANC, Lifelong is now fully electric, more efficient, and more comfortable than ever."
The project secured over $158,000 in energy rebates through various incentive programs, demonstrating the financial viability of transitioning to electric heat pump technology. The successful installation showcases how modern VRF systems can meet the heating demands of commercial facilities in cold climates while supporting environmental sustainability goals.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEfJX_iiGyc
ANC Heating & Air Conditioning Inc., a family-owned business serving the Greater Binghamton and Ithaca regions since 1963, specializes in residential and commercial HVAC solutions. The company holds NATE certification and has been recognized as the region's top HVAC contractor for 30 consecutive years. Their expertise includes ductless mini-split installations, heat pump systems, and comprehensive heating and cooling services for both residential and commercial clients.
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For more information about ANC Heating & Air Conditioning Inc., contact the company here:
ANC Heating & Air Conditioning Inc.
Lloyd Knecht
(607) 748-6435
lloyd@ancheating.com
122 Jennings St
Endicott, New York, 13760
