The challenge
A refrigerated distribution center ran compressor racks and frequent defrost cycles that rejected large, steady heat, while dock offices and break rooms needed heating. Venting the heat and buying heat separately wasted both.
The solution
Air-to-air plate cores recovered heat from the refrigeration machine room and defrost exhaust to pre-heat dock and office make-up air. Where the temperature lift was useful, a heat-pump-assisted loop upgraded the recovered low-grade heat for space heating.
The result
Refrigeration-related energy fell by roughly 20 percent, and the facility reduced its winter gas heating demand. Because plates transfer only sensible heat, no moisture was added to the cold storage envelope.
Why plate, not wheel
Cold-chain and food environments favor contamination-free sensible recovery; a wheel with carry-over is unsuitable where hygiene matters.