retrofiting

Retrofitting refers to the process of adding new technology or features to an older system. This can apply to a wide range of applications, from buildings and vehicles to electronics and software. The primary goal of retrofitting is often to improve performance, efficiency, safety, or compliance with current standards without requiring a complete replacement of the existing system.

In the context of buildings, retrofitting commonly involves upgrading insulation, windows, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and electrical wiring. These upgrades can lead to significant energy savings, reduced environmental impact, and improved occupant comfort. For example, installing modern, energy-efficient windows can reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, lowering utility bills.

Vehicular retrofitting might involve updating older cars with newer engine components for better fuel economy, adding advanced safety features, or converting them to run on alternative fuels. In the realm of software, retrofitting can mean updating legacy code to incorporate new functionalities, improve security, or make it compatible with newer operating systems. The key advantage of retrofitting is its cost-effectiveness compared to full replacement, allowing for gradual modernization and the preservation of existing infrastructure and assets.