Tips for Summertime Savings on Commercial HVAC

Don’t Pay More on Energy Bills Just Because It’s Hot Outside

Here in the Southland, we know it can get pretty warm in the summer. Our suggestions below for energy savings during these hotter months can save you big bucks when it comes to your air conditioning, without sacrificing indoor comfort.

Check Your Economizer

Let’s be honest: most economizers, hailed as the new energy savers for all commercial buildings, are often anything but. And in summertime, it’s more important than ever to make sure your economizer is working properly, keeping hot air out and cold air in throughout the day. Have the dampers inspected to make sure they are opening and closing appropriately, as a jammed component can result in not only higher energy bills but also more frequent system breakdowns.

Consider a Smart Thermostat

Not excited about an upgrade to your existing model? Consider that setting your thermostat even a single degree colder will cost you up to eight percent more in energy bills this summer. Over time, that expense is far more than the price of a new smart thermostat.  You’ll also be able to save even more money by programming it to revert to a higher temperature on weekends, evenings, and low-occupancy times in your building.

This kind of temperature moderation is far more efficient than simply turning off your AC when you leave, resulting in broiling temperatures when people return to the building and switch the HVAC back on again. In those instances, your AC has to work 10 times harder to cool everything down to baseline again, resulting in far greater strain on the equipment.

Check for Drafts, Poor Insulation and Open Windows

It sounds simple, but you’d be amazed how much a little vigilance can pay off. Check for obvious sources of energy loss in your building: poorly insulated rooms, drafty doorways, and windows left open to the outdoors can all cost you big money when it comes to your AC bill. Take the time to educate your employees and/or your tenants on basic energy saving practices.

Do an Energy Audit

Reviewing your costs month-to-month on utility bills is an eye-opening experience, to be sure. Stay in control of how your building uses energy and avoid surprises with a comprehensive look at your utility usage over time.

Invest in Blinds and Curtains

Like good insulation, installing blinds and curtains throughout your building can go a long way to reducing HVAC bills. Even switching from incandescent to LED lights can make a real difference. When it comes to saving energy (and expenses), little things add up to a lot.

For many commercial building owners, hot days can mean higher utility bills to ensure tenants and employees are cool and comfortable. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Take the time to follow up on these tips and reap the rewards with lower energy bills all summer long.

Get the most from your HVAC system this summer. Call Air-Tro, the Southland’s heating and cooling specialists. (626) 357-3535.