How Building Owners Can Better Their Energy Efficiency
Establishing clear communication with tenants and utilizing resources for education, alongside regular maintenance of HVAC units and encouraging efficient energy practices, are fundamental for sustainability in buildings.
It's time to get the whole team on board. There are countless approaches to consider when trying to conserve energy in a building. New technologies can help increase efficiency while reducing consumption, yet people play a crucial role in this process. To truly enhance a structure's energy efficiency, developing a policy that outlines appropriate energy use strategies for occupants is important. With everyone on board, both the environment and the budget benefit significantly.
Offices: Turn the Lights Off
Although it may seem obvious, having tenants turn off the lights when they leave the office can save a significant amount of money and energy. While there are valid reasons to keep some lights on—such as reducing burglary risks or enhancing the building's appeal to potential renters—not every light needs to remain on constantly.
A robust control system can manage much of this, although it's also beneficial to ensure that the whole team is committed to saving energy during the day. Are all those desk lamps necessary? Encouraging tenants to open blinds and reorganize their office spaces to maximize natural light can greatly reduce daytime energy use and may also offer health benefits for occupants.
Heating and Cooling
Heating and cooling units need routine maintenance to ensure they operate effectively and efficiently. During peak seasons, HVAC filters should be changed or cleaned monthly. Regular cleaning and inspection of evaporator and condenser coils on heating and cooling devices are also crucial. Ensuring damaged insulation is repaired, and areas in front of vents are clear of obstructions is essential.
Encouraging occupants to lower air conditioners and heating systems when leaving the building is crucial in the energy-saving process. Programmable thermostats, which automatically adjust settings during nights, weekends, and other times when the building is unoccupied, are also effective tools for energy conservation.
Education and Communication
Developing an effective communication line with tenants to emphasize the importance of energy-saving practices is essential. Utilizing resources can aid in educating users and inhabitants about increasing energy efficiency.
Regular maintenance, inspection, and repair of the building's HVAC units are immensely beneficial. Reducing unnecessary lighting, heating, and cooling during off-peak hours and educating tenants on efficient practices while in the office are fundamental to the sustainability mission.
Artic Energy is a professional heating and cooling service in Houston, TX. We provide HVAC installation, air purifier installations, filter replacement and maintenance services, repair maintenance, energy-efficient solutions and seamless installations.
