Peterson AFB Fitness Center installing new HVAC system Published July 26, 2016 21st Space Wing Public Affairs PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- The Peterson Fitness Center is installing a new heat, ventilation and air conditioning system. The on-site work for the project began March 30 to alleviate the discomfort of hot summer months for patrons. “The existing HVAC system has been failing for years,” said Ernie Branch, 21st Civil Engineer Squadron. “Two years ago the system was beyond repair and a project was approved to upgrade the HVAC.”Because of this construction, the ventilation in the building has been turned off, preventing the movement of air in and out of the facility. This causes the temperature to rise over the course of the day. It starts warming up significantly around 11 a.m. when the heavy fitness center traffic begins, said Roger Hill, Fitness Center manager.Some of the things they are doing to lessen the heat is using large fans throughout the building to help with circulation. The contractor also provided some small mobile air conditioners. Fitness center staff arrives at 4:30 a.m. every morning to capture and circulate the cool morning air, said Hill.Some parts of the fitness center that already have the new air conditioning installed and working include the racquetball courts and the large cardio area known as the Colorado Room.Some of the next areas to receive new duct work and HVAC system are the free weight room, the spinning room and the weight machines in that area, Hill said. Patrons can expect that part of the fitness center to be closed for about two weeks, from Aug. 15-30. “We are going through some growing pains while we’re doing this, but we’re going to reap the benefits in the end,” he said.The construction is scheduled to be completed mid-September this year. For information, call the fitness center at 556-4462 or Hill at 556-8069.