HVAC Upgrades Can Help Facility Managers Minimize Energy Use & Save Money

As we have mentioned before, the HVAC system in an average commercial building accounts for more than 40% of total energy use. Whoa! It is no wonder that this is the first place facilities managers look to when trying to minimize energy use and reduce operational costs. It also doesn’t hurt that addressing HVAC concerns can improve indoor air quality and comfort. That is what we like to call a win-win.

HVAC Maintenance vs. HVAC Upgrades

No HVAC system lasts forever. There comes a time when regular maintenance is just not enough. There comes a time when it is no longer cost-effective to keep repairing the same old, inefficient system. There comes a time when it makes more sense to upgrade.

Optimizing the HVAC Upgrade Process

It all starts with hiring the right HVAC company. After all, not all HVAC upgrades are equal. They can vary quite significantly, depending on several factors, such as replacement costs, existing equipment, distribution of occupancy, and other similar factors. You need to ensure your new upgrades make sense, both financially and for your building needs. Any upgrades should be studied and analyzed thoroughly, including life-cycle cost analysis, initial and operational costs, and payback. This will allow the building owner or property manager to make a well-informed decision.

Once the upgrades are finished, it is also important to implement a preventive HVAC maintenance program.

HVAC Upgrades

1. Deteriorating Systems: We see it time and time again. A property manager or building owner continues to repair an HVAC system long after its useful life. While this may seem like a more cost-effective approach, it could end up costing you in the long run. Even though upgrades are most costly initially, newer HVAC systems are much more energy efficient than older models. This will lead to energy savings, which add up over time.
2. Variable Frequency Drives: Upgrading or retrofitting existing HVAC equipment with variable frequency drives (VFDs) will help reduce cooling and fan energy to a minimum, increasing energy efficiency.
3. Leaks: Leaks are not only an annoyance; they can also lead to higher operating costs, occupant discomfort, and HVAC inefficiency.
4. Outdated Controls: Antiquated controls can not only lead to inefficiencies, but also cause HVAC issues and even failures.
5. Ventilation: Proper ventilation and filtration will not only improve efficiency, but will also improve indoor air quality and occupant comfort. Ventilation is also a code requirement.
6. Interior Controls: Carbon dioxide sensors and other interior controls work hand-in-hand with dampers to bring in the appropriate amount of outdoor air.
7. Ductwork Insulation: Improving, repairing, or adding ductwork insulation is a low-cost way to improve HVAC efficiency.
8. Building Envelope: Another area of concern is the building envelope. Fixing cracks and other problems with the building envelope can go hand-in-hand with HVAC upgrades.

Crockett Facilities Service, Inc.

At CFSI, our commercial service division helps building owners and property managers preserve their building investment and improve their bottom line by optimizing the performance of their mechanical and HVAC equipment. We will keep your equipment operating at peak efficiency, reducing your energy costs and keeping your tenants comfortable and happy.

For more information on how we can partner with you to meet your energy-saving goals, please contact Crockett Facilities Services, your Northern Virginia HVAC company, by calling 301.262.2771, email sales@crockett-facilities.com, or submit a form for a service quote. Like us on Facebook; follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Google+.

Sources:

Taking A Systems View Of HVAC Upgrades Can Lead To Bigger Benefits Facilities.net

This entry was posted on Friday, April 25th, 2014 at . Both comments and pings are currently closed.