“While energy costs rank among the highest input costs of operating a business, the maintenance of the HVAC equipment and systems that run off that energy are naturally one of the last thoughts on business operators’ minds. They’re busy with ensuring targets are met, the best people are hired and revenue is being derived from their operations,” notes Michael Flores, Director of Services & Technology, Direct Energy. “Not only does regular maintenance of that equipment prevent breakdowns, it also increases energy efficiency, helping you better manage your energy costs.”

As winter approaches, it makes sense to make sure your equipment is running at optimal efficiency. The list of common opportunities for energy savings below can help you get ready for the season and keep your HVAC running smoothly all year long.

Dirty heat exchanger coils can significantly affect the efficiency of your refrigeration equipment. Over time, these coils become clogged with dirt and dust, making the compressor work harder and consume more energy. Cleaning dirty refrigeration coils can save 25% in operation costs and helps prevent early compressor failure.

By raising the thermostat setting during the summer just one degree, you can save up to 5% on your cooling costs. Keeping the daytime temperature up near 77ºF will keep costs down. You can also turn the thermostat to 84ºF or shut the HVAC system off when the building is not occupied. In addition, you can:

• install a programmable thermostat, which allows you to automatically program temperature adjustments for both heating and cooling, and
• reduce cooling and heating loads during unoccupied hours, which has the potential to save 10% to 15% on your annual costs.

Air conditioning systems typically lose 1% to 2% in efficiency for every year that passes without proper maintenance. This can lead to steady increases in your cooling costs. Proper maintenance should be performed at least once a year and should include:

• cleaning the condenser coils and inspecting filters, and
• checking for correct discharge air temperature and proper refrigerant charge

Dirty and clogged air filters result in improper supply of conditioned air and are the largest source of air conditioning service calls. Filters are easy to replace and result in more effective air conditioning. Check air filters monthly, and replace at least once a season as needed.

Leaky ductwork can seriously impact the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems. Examine the ductwork in your business for cracks, splits or bad connections. Turn on the system, and check for escaping air. Look for tell-tale black marks on duct insulation, especially around the joints. These are caused by dirt collecting around air leaks. Seal the leaks carefully with a mastic sealant rather than duct tape, as duct tape tends to degrade.

An efficient HVAC system is of little use if windows and doors have cracks, allowing outside air to enter while conditioned air escapes. As small as a quarter-inch gap around a standard door or window can let in as much air as a softball-size hole. Check for cracks and small holes around your doors and windows, and seal them with caulk (windows) and weather stripping (doors). Not only will you save money, you will also increase the comfort level of people inside.