(KNZA)--The Hiawatha School Board heard the findings of a review of the HVAC system needs within the district when they met November 11th.

Spencer Brinkmeyer, with Building Controls and Services ( BCS), said the major need is to upgrade the six variable refrigerant flow ( VRF) systems at the elementary school due to their age and performance issues.

He outlined several possible solutions, and recommended going with a mini-splits option that would allow for ease of maintenance and improved temperature control within classrooms.

The cost of the mini-splits option was placed at between $250,000 to $420,000 per system, depending on the number of indoor units needing replacement.

Brinkmeyer said the equipment should last 10 to 12 years and comes with a manufacturer's warranty.

The next step will be to walk the facility again and determine which units are in most critical need of being replaced.