Equipment and Operations Reviews Can Impact Energy Efficiency
When it comes to improving efficiency, where better to start than your HVAC system? After all, HVAC systems in commercial buildings account for more than 40% of total energy use. And before you opt to replace your HVAC unit for a newer, more efficient model, stop. The solution to your energy efficiency woes could be as simple as HVAC maintenance. Properly serviced equipment can help lower energy costs by as much as 20%. Of course, there does come a time when it may be more cost effective to replace your outdated HVAC unit when repairs become increasingly more frequent. Until then, there are two primary ways to increase HVAC efficiency: equipment and operation.
Equipment:
Commissioning is cost-effective strategy for reducing energy. Commissioning is a process to evaluate performance and identify the inevitable “drift” from where things should be and to put the building back on course. A qualified mechanical contractor should go though and evaluate the control systems, air-handling systems, mechanical equipment, control screens, etc. to identify anomalies.
Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) offer improved efficiency. When VFDs are installed on fan and pump motors, energy savings can range from anywhere between 35% and 50% over conventional speed applications. When installing variable speed drives on chillers, use them to handle extra load.
Incorporating magnetic bearings in fans, pumps, and chillers will prevent the shaft from touching against metal, reducing friction and improving the machinery’s efficiency.
Operations:
It is important to regularly review your operations. This means not only checking to make sure setpoints are correct, as they may have been changed for an event or a weekend and never re-set. Also look to see if sensor points are properly calibrated.
Review how the building is being operated overall as possibly it can be operated differently based on when the building is occupied and unoccupied.
It is not enough to have an efficient HVAC system; you must also know how to operate it for peak efficiency.
Even in a well-run building, there are typically refinements that can be implemented for improvements in energy usage. And even small HVAC improvements can make a big difference. Crockett Facilities Services, Inc. (CFSI) can help you fine tune your HVAC equipment to save energy and reduce costs. Our key focus is helping building owners, property managers and facility professionals lower their operating expenses and energy consumption through proactive and preventive HVAC maintenance. Give us a call now to set up an appointment for an HVAC system evaluation for energy-saving recommendations.
