3 min read

What is Prefabrication 

Prefabrication is a phenomenon in the HVAC industry that surpasses traditional installation methods in practicality, reliability and cost efficiency. Traditional jobs entail separate delivery of the HVAC system’s components, which are fitted to each other on-site before being fitted to the building’s outlets. Naturally, this involves a significant amount of work being done on-site, and deadline-threatening downtime in the event that any components are delayed.  

Prefabrication offers a pre-assembled, ‘drag and drop’ pumpset that arrives on site with the pumps attached to inertia bases that are mounted onto a galvanised frame, and with pipework and ancillaries already fitted and tested. 

All Masterflow prefab units use inertia bases filled with concrete that uses the correct MPA spec, and welding in accordance with A1554 code. While its benefits are unquestionable, there is a misconception surrounding its costs… 

The Prefabrication Myth 

Because prefabricated skids are designed, constructed and delivered at one point in time, this means that there is a larger singular lump sum involved than what would occur in any singular invoice when compared to the ‘dribs and drabs’ invoices of a traditional job. 

This has led to the uncalculated misconception that prefabrication, as convenient, timely and efficient as it may be, is an expensive luxury. This could not be further from the truth… 

In fact, the innovation of prefabrication is one of few developments that not only delivers a superior on-site experience, but does so at a lesser cost than the traditional alternative as well. If your plantroom’s dimensions permit, prefab truly is a win-win solution on all fronts. 

How it SAVES You Money 

A Time Machine 

Because a prefabricated system is ready to connect to the building and the other components within the system as soon as it is delivered, days, weeks and even months can be saved on site when compared to the arduous process of a traditional installation.  

Imagine the stress of worrying about inconsistent delivery times, the delays caused by just a few minor components being late or lost, the mess of dozens of components laying around in a plantroom and the wait for personnel to arrive and install these components – all vanishing. It almost sounds too good to be true, but this is precisely what prefabrication was designed to achieve, and Masterflow has a track record of delivering these benefits time and again. 

This means you’ve got less days on site to pay for, less costly downtime, and less shocking budget stretches that rear their head seemingly out of nowhere  

Meeting Deadlines 

Thanks to the time-machine-like efficiency benefits, you can rest assured in knowing that your prefabricated pumpset will arrive on time, all in one package, and ready to go, avoiding the dreaded call to developers to inform them that extensions are needed on a deadline. 

This timeliness pays dividends and serves your business in the long term, allowing you to bolster your reputation and deliver a superior customer experience. Timely performance is key to repeat business. 

Reduced Labour  

The nature of prefabricated units having many traditionally on-site jobs taken care of upon delivery means less cranes, less electricians, and less plumbers being used on site.

Naturally, this means less expenses being spent on personnel… but there are further cost savings associated with this: 

Reduced Risk of Human Error 

With less tradies on site, and a tested, pre-constructed unit designed for your site, there is less risk of personnel making a mistake that creates costly delays, the need for replacement parts, and reduces the amount of decisions that must be made for smooth operation. 

Reduced Risk of Injury 

Finally, the reduction of hours worked on site provides huge benefits in safety, as less tradies working for less time, with less components occupying the plantroom means less risk for injury. The peace of mind, ethical benefits and cost saving of this prefabrication byproduct are truly a breath of fresh air. 

But it’s Not for Every Job… 

While Masterflow recommends using prefabrication for all projects that it suits, it doesn’t suit all projects. 

The primary concern that determines whether a prefabrication unit is a viable option, is the size and shape of the plantroom. Plantrooms with highly irregular shapes and/or very limited space can require configurations that prohibit the use of prefabricated units due to their dimensions. 

Secondly, while prefabricated units are always a great option for new projects with adequate space, they can not always accommodate the replacement of an existing system. This is due to the prefabricated units having system compatibility requirements that are not satisfied by every existing system in operation. 

However, replacement of an existing pumpset with a prefabricated unit can be and has been done. It just depends on the specification of the system. 
If you’re intrigued by the potential benefits of a prefabricated system for your new or existing project and you value time management, efficiency and quality, Get a Quote for Masterflow Prefabricated Pumps tailor made for your project.