Township approves $300,000 in interim funding for WRC pool HVAC fix

By Amanda Modaragamage

Wilmot council has unanimously approved $300,000 in capital funding for the initial work on the Wilmot Recreation Complex (WRC) aquatics centre dehumidification replacement project, to be funded through the township’s infrastructure renewal reserve fund.

The current HVAC system is in need of replacement, which will be addressed as part of the 2026 capital budget. In the meantime, township staff have requested the installation of split-air mechanical units to help relieve pressure on the aging system and provide a safe and clean environment for pool patrons.

The facility currently relies on an end-of-life Dry-O-Tron dehumidification unit, which plays a critical role in managing indoor air quality, humidity and ambient temperature in the pool area.

“The evaluation determined that the system is in poor condition, and escalating component failures are anticipated to continue this year,” said Chris Catania, director of community services, during a presentation to council on July 28.

The system runs continuously – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year – resulting in a shortened life cycle of approximately 15 years, with increased maintenance needs starting at the 10-year mark.

Over the past several months, the WRC aquatics centre has experienced increasing operational issues with the deteriorating Dry-O-Tron, leading to intermittent program disruptions and, in some cases, facility closures.

Warm water environments – used for therapy, aquafit classes and children’s swimming lessons – require extra vigilance due to elevated temperatures and a diverse group of users with varying health needs.

The pool environment also has a direct impact on staff, including lifeguards and instructors. Poor air circulation and high humidity can cause fatigue, dehydration and reduced alertness, compromising both safety and performance.

As part of the HVAC redesign project, DEI Consulting Engineers completed an assessment of the current system.

Based on updated calculations, the existing HVAC system is working 40 per cent harder than it was originally designed for, placing significant strain on the equipment and causing more frequent breakdowns and inefficient operation.

The strain on the system has remained consistent and costly, resulting in more than $80,000 in taxpayer-funded repairs since 2024.

The proposal includes the immediate installation of split-air units in the upper viewing galleries to ease the burden on the central system.

“This will help reduce the likelihood and severity of further disruptions while the broader HVAC design or redesign is in progress,” said Catania. “The split air units will be incorporated into the overall HVAC modelling and calculations for the new system, as they are necessary to help balance humidity and maintain air quality in the upper viewing galleries.”

The units provide targeted heating and cooling independent of the central HVAC system, improving comfort for spectators while helping to reduce operational stress on the aging Dry-O-Tron.

The cost of  the complete replacement of the HVAC dehumidification system scheduled for next year is estimated at $900,000.