Just because your HVAC unit is working doesn’t mean that it doesn’t need attention. After all, “working” doesn’t mean “working well.”
According to ENERGY STAR®, the average building wastes 30% of the energy it consumes. That’s money down the drain!
Here in sunny Central Florida, it is especially important that your HVAC system be working as well—and as efficiently—as it possibly can. However, this is even more crucial for commercial HVAC units, as they are under much more stress than the average residential unit.
The good news is that improving the efficiency of your commercial HVAC system is possible.
How Well Is Your HVAC Unit Working?
Your business depends on a working HVAC unit to keep customers in the building, employees working productively, and products in good condition. In fact, it may even help to think of your commercial HVAC unit as the lungs of your office, warehouse, or retail store.
An efficient system keeps temps down and airflow moving; but if it isn’t working optimally, your system will be forced to work harder. Over time, this leads to more wear and tear on the various components and—eventually—breakdowns.
Another benefit to an efficient system is the significant cost savings. In addition to a lower energy bill, efficient HVAC units are less likely to need expensive repairs.
The result? More money goes to your bottom line.
How To Improve Commercial HVAC Efficiency
So, what can you do to improve the efficiency of your commercial HVAC unit?
Plenty!
Here are some of the steps you can take today to ensure that your system stays in excellent condition.
1. Routine Maintenance
Don’t underestimate the impact that regular maintenance can have on the life and efficiency of your HVAC system! However, focus on proactive maintenance rather than reactive maintenance.
By identifying problems before they occur, you’ll be able to prevent costly repairs while also ensuring that your system cools and heats faster.
First, make sure you change air filters regularly. Air filters that are clogged with dust and debris will have to work extra hard to pull air into the system.
Similarly, take the time to have air ducts professionally cleaned to remove buildup.
The most important part of routine maintenance, however, is to have your system checked regularly by a professional facility maintenance company. You may be able to clean the drain line on your home unit, but having an expert eye on your commercial HVAC system ensures that problems are identified and prevented.
2. Improve Ventilation
Your air supply and return vents are the lifeblood of your HVAC system, so make sure that none of the vents in your building are blocked by furniture, shelving, or inventory, as this will interfere with proper ventilation.
If your vent covers are broken or otherwise unsightly, have them replaced or use a decorative grille cover.
If you notice any “dead zones” where airflow seems to be lower, installing fans can act as a short-term solution.
3. Add Insulation
Your HVAC works best when it is a truly closed system with no energy loss. However, leaks in the ductwork and poor insulation can cause all that cold air to seep out.
Fix duct leaks promptly to keep energy loss at a minimum and add necessary insulation to keep the cool air inside where it belongs. For retail locations with a lot of natural light, insulating window film can help reduce heat, keeping your energy costs down.
4. Get a System Audit
Another service that your facility maintenance company can offer is an audit of your building’s energy efficiency.
At Central Florida Store Services, we use audits to help us provide custom solutions for our clients. In addition to identifying leaks in ductwork, we can also let you know whether your system is the right size for your square footage and provide customized solutions to address your most pressing issues.
5. Upgrade Your Unit
If you have the time and budget, upgrading your HVAC system allows you to take advantage of improved technology. And while installing a new ENERGY STAR® rated unit or converting your building to an upgraded system can be a much-needed step, you don’t have to do a full replacement to have a huge impact.
Small additions, like programmable thermostats and retrofitting your existing unit, can give you many of the benefits of a new system without the price tag.
Conclusion
Improving your commercial HVAC’s energy efficiency is too important to put on the back burner!
Most business owners don’t appreciate the comfort of a well-functioning HVAC system until it’s gone. By prioritizing your air quality and temperature, you’ll avoid many headaches later on.
At Central Florida Store Services, we’re familiar with the many details involved in maintaining a commercial building. With our expert facility maintenance services, we’ll take care of those details so you can focus on running your business.
Contact us today so we can learn how best to serve you.
