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District presentation finds extensive corrosion in hydronic piping at Barrera Elementary; engineering recommended
Summary
A technical briefing showed original chilled‑water piping at Elma Barrera Elementary is heavily corroded; presenters recommended engineering plans, an RFP and expedited contractor proposals to avoid leaks or system shutdowns. Ethos Engineering had previously flagged piping issues in a Sept. 2023 assessment.
District staff and a contractor presented photographs and a risk assessment Sept. 16 showing extensive exterior and interior corrosion in the hydronic piping that serves Elma Barrera Elementary's HVAC systems.
"Potential for catastrophic failure where hydronic pipe fails and ruptures," said Spencer Bell of Central Air & Heating Service, LLC, summarizing failure risks if the piping is not replaced or rehabilitated. He showed images of corroded valves and sections of pipe where insulation and jacketing had been removed; staff said the system has seen little chemical treatment of chilled water, which contributed to internal corrosion.
Bell noted the building is roughly 25 years old and the hydronic piping is original; industry guidance cited in the presentation indicates a properly maintained system life expectancy of about 28–30 years. Ethos Engineering's facility assessment from Q3 2023 was referenced as documenting piping and insulation deterioration. The contractor recommended a phased remediation: engineering drawings for a new hydronic system, issuing an RFP, and soliciting expedited contractor proposals based on an engineer-of-record scope.
The board was given next-step options but no funding or contract award was approved at the meeting. Staff said the district should secure engineered plans and proposals before bringing a funding request back to trustees.
