This cold weather means temperatures hover around freezing, even when there is an abundance of sunshine. Here is a closer look at just how valuable freeze protection is for your commercial HVAC system.
Listening to the weather forecast in the morning can make you shiver. That’s because at this point in January there is typically a cold snap. This cold weather means temperatures hover around freezing, even when there is an abundance of sunshine. Here is a closer look at just how valuable freeze protection is for your commercial HVAC system.
Industries That Need It
Let’s start by examining the industries that stand to gain the most from this technique:
- Oil and Gas
- Water Treatment
- Transportation and Agriculture
- Mining
The main reason for this is that all of these industries are often exposed to the elements. Unpredictable weather can affect HVAC systems of all sizes and capacities more than you might think on the surface. A simple heat source often isn’t enough to get the job done; this reinforces the value that additional insulation can bring to the table.
What Is It?
Now let’s turn our attention to what the method of freeze protection entails. Basically, it means fitting water tanks and reservoirs with more insulation to stop the liquids inside from solidifying. With insulation in place, heat loss is minimal – around .5% – and if you don’t have this padding, then the heat loss rate skyrockets to an astonishing 35 or 45% instead. Again, only using a single heating element as part of your HVAC system, no matter where it is installed, is inadvisable. Using two heaters or more along with the insulation is the best way to keep the heat spread out, especially for larger tanks or containment vessels.
However, you must also factor in power consumption levels. You don’t want your HVAC system to have to work harder, particularly if one of your other objectives is to keep the interior of your commercial building warm enough and the air clean enough to suit the inhabitants inside. Researching historical weather patterns and paying attention to current conditions is essential to your success.
The Power of Formulas
Never underestimate the power of math. The heating industry at large relies on complex calculations that allow them to unlock the secrets of enhanced efficiency, as follows:
- Heating Water in a Tank: (X number of gallons) x (delta of temperature measured in Fahrenheit) / (372) x (number of hours needed) = Kilowatts needed to maintain and increase heating.
- Heating Oil in a Tank: (X number of gallons) x (delta of temperature measured in Fahrenheit) / (860) x (number of hours needed) = Kilowatts needed to maintain and increase heating.
Crockett Facilities Can Help!
Crockett Facilities Services, Inc. (CFSI) is committed to helping building owners, property managers, engineers, and facility professionals lower their operating expenses through HVAC preventive maintenance. We can develop a cost-effective, customized preventive maintenance plan for your commercial building that will provide you with peace of mind, improved comfort, and energy savings. Click Here to Request a Quote
To learn more about the importance of HVAC Preventive Maintenance, please contact us at 202.600.2787 or mford@crockett-facilities.com. Our PM contract customers receive priority service with 24/7 emergency service in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest!