In commercial properties and buildings, relying on HVAC units is a must to ensure a comforting work environment. However, the dependency on HVAC systems in commercial buildings can be a significant investment due to the upfront cost of equipment and maintenance. The rapidly increasing cost of electricity also makes commercial heating or cooling systems expensive.
But business owners and managers can save a significant sum of money on HVAC units by following a few strategies and practices. In this blog, we will have a discussion on the these tips and tricks in detail. Hopefully, these strategies will improve efficiency, increase lifespan, and, lastly, cut down the operating costs.
12 Ways To Save Money On Commercial HVAC Units
From investing in efficient components and units to ensuring regular maintenance, there are many strategies for saving money. Here are the best ways of ensuring cutting back HVAC unit costs.
- Invest In Energy-Efficient Components
The HVAC system industry is huge, with several brands and companies operating in the market. These brands have various HVAC models available with different energy-efficiency ratings. Energy-efficient systems help to economize energy bills by reducing the use of energy. Before purchasing a unit, make sure to look for the Energy Star certification and high SEER2 rating to ensure energy efficiency.
- Lease HVAC Units
HVAC units have a long lifespan and last for about 25 years. Undoubtedly, the upfront cost of buying commercial HVAC units is quite high. However, you can avoid this cost by leasing the HVAC components from brands and companies to save money on the buying cost. Not only that, but cooling or heating systems on lease often come with a maintenance and repair package.
- Rely On Programmable Thermostats
Programmable thermostats come with advanced technology and features that make HVAC usage easier and cheaper. Relying on these smart thermostats to cut back the operating cost of HVAC units in commercial properties is a great idea. Adjust the thermostat according to business hours. The thermostat will regulate the temperature around the property by following the instructions provided.
- Ensure Natural Ventilation
One of the best ways of reducing the HVAC workload and saving money on the air conditioning and heating system is to ensure nature ventilation in the building. Make sure to open the doors and windows of the building and rely on fans to allow the air to move freely. On top of that, natural ventilation can help to remove several pollutants, thus, improving the air quality.
- Proper Insulation
Reducing the workload of the HVAC units is a must to save money in commercial buildings. The HVAC systems will be forced to work harder than usual and consume more energy if the building is not insulated properly. Conduct visual inspections on a regular basis to ensure that there are no leaks or damage that can allow the air to escape.
- Conduct Maintenance
Proper maintenance of commercial HVAC units is the best way of cutting down on operating costs without any doubt. When the components connected to the system are well-maintained and work efficiently, energy consumption drops down. This helps to save money in the long run and also ensures a long-lasting service from the HVAC components.
- Hire HVAC Professionals
Commercial HVAC systems are typically more complex and bigger compared to residential units. The process of installing and maintaining commercial air conditioning and heating system is also different and more complex than the household units. Rely on a team of professionals for the best installation and servicing.
- Take Retrofitting Into Consideration
Retrofitting is one of the top ways of saving money when it comes to HVAC systems. The process of retrofitting is to replace components of an air conditioning and heating system with energy-efficient parts. This makes sure that you do not have to invest money in an entirely new heating or cooling system. Not only that, but it also helps the HVAC system to perform efficiently for a longer period of time.
- Rely On Zoning Systems
For commercial properties and buildings, relying on zoning systems is a great idea. This is because there are many sections or parts in a property that do not require the same temperature regulation at the same time. Zoning systems will allow business owners and managers to regulate the temperature settings in different parts of a property. The purpose of this system is to make sure that the temperature regulation of HVAC systems is precise and not wasteful.
- Switch To Renewable Energy Sources
Renewable energy sources are bringing some big changes and improvements in the energy and appliance industry. To cut down the operating costs of HVAC systems, businesses can take the initiative to switch to renewable sources of energy. These sources are geothermal, solar, and so on.
These renewable energy sources will replace traditional HVAC systems while providing the same amount of consistency and comfort. The operating cost of HVAC sources powered by renewable sources will be low.
- Rely On A Preventive Maintenance Schedule
Preventive maintenance schedules are a great way of ensuring that the HVAC system is operating at its peak capacity without any problems. It assists the business by identifying issues before they result in major damage and solve them at the early stage. This helps the business to save significant amounts of money on expensive servicing or repair programs. Not only that, but it also helps to ensure the longevity of the air conditioning and heating systems.
- Conduct Energy Audit
Last but not least, invest in getting an energy audit done on the commercial property. The purpose of energy audits is to take a closer look at the HVAC systems connected to the property along with other energy consumption areas. This will help to identify the points where the energy consumption is excess and provide ideas to reduce the excess consumption.
Conclusion
Commercial heating and cooling systems are essential in order to maintain the comfort and healthy living environment of the occupants. Even though the HVAC systems ensure a relaxing surrounding throughout the year, the heating and cooling units cost a significant amount of money every month.
However, there are many strategies and ideas that you can implement to save money on heating and cooling the commercial space. Make sure that you pay attention to the ideas mentioned above and save a decent amount of money on these HVAC systems.
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