Supermarket Refurbishment with Guardian EC Air Curtains

Oak Electrical is one of the UK’s leaders within the M&E industry, operating across retail stores located nationwide. Working with a well-known national supermarket chain, Oak electrical helped project-manage the design, complete the installation and commissioning of Reznor Guardian Air Curtains across multiple UK highstreets.

The Challenge

Delivering Consistency Across Multiple Projects

With supermarkets continually investing in both new stores and refurbishment programmes, contractors must work within varying project schedules, specifications and site conditions. Furthermore, drawing approvals, sign-off processes and project release dates can vary considerably, with schemes often being delivered throughout the year.

Impact on Project Delivery

To maintain construction programmes, the main contractor appointed Oak Electrical to install and commission units within the air curtain refurbishment scheme. The Reznor Guardian EC Air Curtains were specified as they are readily available, easy and light weight to install, is capable of being incorporated in refurbishment and new-build environments whilst being energy efficient.

Objectives

• Provide a reliable and proven air curtain solution across multiple supermarket locations.
• Support both refurbishment and new-build projects with a consistent product specification.
• Ensure installations could be completed quickly and efficiently
• Deliver a professional appearance that complements modern store layouts.
• Maintain project schedules and handover requirements.

Solution

A Proven Air Curtain Specification

Building on previous successful installations, the supermarket and main contractor continued to specify Reznor air curtains across its store portfolio. The products have become an established part of refurbishment programmes. For example, replacing older Airbloc air curtain units and providing consistency across multiple locations. The lighter-weight Guardian EC design provides installers with a practical solution on-site. Typically mounted using 8mm threaded rod fixings which are usually readily available, installations of these air curtains can often be completed efficiently by a one to-two-person team, depending on site conditions and access arrangements. The Guardian EC provides additional benefits of being energy efficient with its EC fans which could reduce power consumption by up to 30%.

Efficient Project Delivery

Projects are generally delivered through main contractors operating on agreed schedule rates. Installation requirements vary from store to store, but the straightforward delivery schedules, mounting arrangement and manageable unit weight help simplify the installation process for Oak electrical. Whether incorporated into a refurbishment project or a new-build store, Oak electricals’ expertise is integrated as part of the wider building services package, supporting smooth project delivery through to final handover.

Results

Reliable Performance Across the Estate

The continued specification of Reznor air curtains demonstrates confidence in the product’s performance and suitability for retail applications.

Key benefits include:

Contractor Feedback

Feedback from Oak Electrical has been positive, particularly regarding product availability and delivery reliability.

“The units arrive within the specified timescales and are straightforward to install. Their lighter weight makes handling on-site easier, helping teams complete installations efficiently.”

Conclusion

Supporting Supermarkets Ongoing Store Development Programme

Reznor air curtains continue to play an important role in supermarket refurbishment and new-build projects across the UK. Through a combination of reliable product performance, ease of installation and dependable delivery, the solution supports contractors in achieving successful project outcomes. Looking ahead…with continued investment in its store network, Reznor remains well positioned to support future projects with proven air curtain solutions that meet the demands of modern retail environments.