Commercial HVAC Efficiency: Go Green To Save Green!

These days, everyone is trying to find ways to save money. At the same time, staying environmentally friendly and focusing on sustainability is also important. Improving your commercial HVAC efficiency will check both boxes! Save money on your monthly energy costs while also making your workplace more sustainable and eco-friendly.

Did you know...

• The average commercial building wastes upwards of 30% of the energy it uses?
• HVAC can account for 40-60% of a building's energy use?
• Space cooling alone accounts for nearly 15% of of electricity costs, second only to lighting?

Whether you are looking to save green as in the environment, or green as in cash, looking at your commercial HVAC efficiency is a great place to start.

Upgrade Your Thermostat Technology

As we've mentioned before, there are tremendous savings to be had by using HVAC controls. Paying to cool or heat your building when no one is there makes no sense! Invest in HVAC control technology and you will see immediate savings. This includes programmable and smart thermostats, occupancy sensors, and energy management systems.

Variable Speed Drives for Fans

HVAC fans typically have two functions: Off or On. Add a variable speed drive (VSD) could lead to big savings. Some jobs don't require your fan to operate at full speed, and by reducing the speed of the fan, you reduce your energy costs.

Look for Leaks

We all remember our parents yelling at us through a door left wide open: "Are we paying to heat/cool the great outdoors?" Well, now that we are older and wiser, we understand their frustration! Don't let your cooled or heated air escape unnecessarily through leaks.

• Insulation
• Exterior Wall Leaks: Electrical boxes, access panels, outlets, etc. can often be a sneaky culprit of leaks.
• Weather Stripping & Caulking: Check around windows and doors to make sure there are no areas where air could escape. Weather stripping and caulking don't last forever, so this is something you want to check for frequently.

Change Filters Regularly

Changing your filters regularly (every three months is recommended) can actually save you 5-10% on your energy costs each year. Dirty filters restrict airflow and cause your equipment to work even harder, which also leads to more wear and tear and not getting as many years out of your HVAC equipment.

Preventative Maintenance

If we've said it once, we've said it a hundred times- preventative maintenance is essential for your HVAC equipment!

• Keep your equipment running more efficiently, saving money on energy bills.
• Regular service on your equipment can catch small problems before they turn into bigger problems.
• Save money on the service itself because it's always more expensive to pay for emergency/after hours service.

Equipment Upgrade

Sometimes, the best way to improve efficiency and sustainability is by replacing your equipment. Old equipment uses more energy, breaks down more frequently, and is more costly to repair. While new equipment can be costly, it's important to remember there will be substantial savings on energy bills and repair costs over time.

Go Green to Save Green!

Quality Refrigeration's experienced technicians can take a look at your equipment and let you know of any improvements that can be made. We can also get you set up with a service agreement, making preventative maintenance something you'll never have to remember to schedule. Get in touch today!