McDonald’s Boosts HVAC Efficiency with Woosh Air Partnership

Introduction

McDonald’s Wilco Management Inc., which operates franchise locations across California, partnered with Woosh to improve HVAC efficiency and reduce maintenance costs.

Through April to June 2024, nine locations with 25 rooftop HVAC units (RTUs) were equipped with more than 100 Woosh smart filters. The installation—handled by each restaurant’s onsite maintenance team alongside Woosh technicians—was quick, seamless, and non-disruptive to operations.

The most immediate benefit has been significant labor and material savings. By extending filter lifespan and reducing the frequency of replacements, locations have lowered labor hours, cut material costs, improved overall system maintenance, and reduced safety risks associated with rooftop access.

Testimonial From Director of Operations – McDonald's Wilco Management Inc

“Since partnering with Woosh, we've seen significant cost reductions and improvements in guest experience by ensuring our AC units are always in good working condition. With the new OSHA indoor heat prevention enforcements, it's critical that our AC units run smoothly and meet the proper temperature and air demand, and Woosh has been instrumental in making that happen. They've been a great partner, not only ensuring we have the best air quality but also providing diagnostics and alerting us to any faulty units,” says Ruani Tafolla, Director of Operations at McDonald's Wilco Management Inc., highlighting the benefits of Woosh’s smart technology. 

Woosh’s proactive approach to HVAC solutions allows businesses to navigate new compliance standards while prioritizing both customer satisfaction and employee well-being. "Beyond the cost savings, the biggest return on investment comes from minimizing potential employee accidents… Woosh has greatly reduced the need for our employees to climb ladders and go up to the roof to change filters. Overall, Woosh not only provides great savings but also gives me peace of mind.”

What are Woosh Smart Air Filters?  

The Woosh smart air filter maximizes filter life. It has sensors and uses data processing to determine  when it’s time to change the filter. Filters changed on a fixed schedule are changed too early or too  late. Too early results in unnecessary costs for material & labor while too late results in increased  system wear and energy consumption.  

The data collected by the filter is also helpful for diagnostic purposes. In this case, it was used to  detect early signs of coil freezing which if left unchecked could lead to catastrophic failure.  

Why use Woosh?

As Ruani Tafolla emphasized in his testimonial above, Woosh delivers measurable economic impact across three key areas—labor and material savings, asset protection, and energy efficiency—alongside several other valuable benefits.

For a more detailed look at how Woosh’s smart filters have helped McDonald’s Wilco Management Inc reduce costs and labor, explore the full case study here.

Thank you McDonald’s for your continued support!