Why is it worth it to use more energy to make sure your occu

Why is it worth it to use more energy to make sure your occupants are comfortable?

Solution

Summer and the accompanying scorching heat are just around the corner. If you live in the southern United States, exiting the office at the end of the day may already feel like entering a sauna. Even if your region still boasts a spring-like climate, there’s no doubt the summer heat will soon beat down on your facility.

Beat the heat, reduce your summer energy bill, and keep your occupants comfortable by preparing your facility now.

Tracking your year over year energy data lets you know what to expect from the buildings in your facility. Energy data trends alert you to key problem areas – before your energy bill spikes.

Data provides insight for painless changes. By knowing how you’re using energy, you can ensure you’re not cooling unoccupied rooms or cross heating and cooling a space.

After you’ve compiled your energy data, find the buildings that are the biggest consumers of energy. Determine how you can reduce the energy drain from these buildings.

While a major system or structure overhaul may be necessary, small changes like adding window coverings or caulking door frames make a huge difference in overall efficiency.

Preventive maintenance on your HVAC system is critical for keeping occupants cool and costs low. The savings is twofold. Dealing with the issues before they are critical avoids pricey last minute repairs. (Nothing demands urgency like a building with no air conditioning on a 100 degree day.)

Regular maintenance has a dramatic effect on efficiency. A unit that’s 10% low on Freon results in a 20% increase in energy spend. Keep coils clean, filters replaced, and refrigerant full for major savings on even the hottest days.

Servicing your system for peak performance, prevents maintenance headaches and astronomical utility bills.

One of the best ways to determine the efficiency of your system is to contact your customers. If they’re uncomfortable – they will let you know. Send out a survey before the summer begins and pinpoint problem spots within your facility. (Just be sure to follow best practices for an effective survey). Simple fixes like adding window coverings will make buildings more comfortable for customers.

Customers are an invaluable source of ideas for increasing comfort. Some ideas may not fit within the budget, but cost effective ideas can spring from the survey as well.