How Energy-Efficient HVAC Systems Reduce Costs in Commercial Buildings
When you run a business, energy costs can be a big part of your overhead. And with energy prices now on the rise, it’s more important than ever to find ways to bring down your energy costs.
Energy-efficient HVAC systems (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) are essential for reducing energy consumption and lowering your monthly bills. At Atmostherm, we offer tailored commercial HVAC solutions that not only cut costs but also enhance comfort throughout your commercial building
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- How energy-efficient HVAC systems work
- The best HVAC options for your commercial building
- How to calculate the HVAC system ROI for your business
- How to keep your system running smoothly
You might also like our guide on HVAC systems and why they’re important.
Why energy efficiency matters for HVAC systems
HVAC systems are responsible for keeping your building comfortable, whether it’s heating in winter or cooling during the summer months. But they’re also one of the biggest consumers of energy. In large commercial buildings, trying to keep the temperature just right across all floors can really add up.
Energy-efficient HVAC systems are designed to do more with less. They deliver heating and cooling throughout your building while using as little energy as possible. This means lower utility bills, less environmental impact and more comfort.
Choosing the right HVAC system for your space isn’t always straightforward. You’ll need to think about your building’s size, its heating and cooling needs, and how often it will be used. But once you get the right system in place, the savings can be substantial.
The best HVAC systems to reduce energy costs
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to HVAC, but there are certain systems that stand out when it comes to energy efficiency. Let’s go through some of the best solutions available for commercial buildings:
1. Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems
If you’re looking for one of the most energy-efficient systems on the market, VRF (or VRV) systems should be at the top of your list. They are essentially large air conditioning systems that take care of both cooling and heating.
These systems use inverter-driven compressors that adjust based on the demand for heating or cooling. This means the system isn’t constantly running at full capacity. Instead, it only uses as much energy as it needs at any given time.
VRF systems can also recover heat generated during cooling and use it to warm other areas of the building. So, if you’ve got a large commercial space with lots of floors (such as an office space), a VRF system could be a great option. They can even reduce energy consumption by up to 50% when compared to traditional systems.
2. Inverter technology and smart thermostats
Many modern HVAC systems are equipped with inverter technology. This is designed to adjust the compressor speed based on the temperature demands of your building. This is a big improvement compared to traditional systems that simply turn on and off. By running at a lower capacity and continuously maintaining a consistent temperature, inverter systems use far less energy.
Pairing inverter technology with smart thermostats is another way to boost your system’s efficiency. Smart thermostats allow you to control the temperature remotely and set schedules, whatever the size of your commercial property. This means your system only runs when it’s needed. You can even set it to adjust based on the number of people in a room, or the time of day, making it even more energy-efficient.
3. Heat pump systems
Heat pumps are another energy-efficient solution for both heating and cooling commercial buildings.
Rather than generating heat or cooling air, heat pumps move heat from one place to another. By doing so, they consume far less energy than conventional energy systems.
There are two main types of heat pumps: air-source and ground-source.
- Air-source heat pumps (ASHP) draw heat from the outside air
- Ground-source heat pumps (GSHP) extract heat from the ground
Both are highly efficient, but GSHPs are often preferred for larger commercial buildings that need a lot of heating or cooling.
If you’re considering one for your property, find out if commercial heat pumps are really worth it in our guide.
4. Evaporative cooling systems
If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly cooling solution, evaporative air con systems are an excellent choice. These systems use water evaporation to cool the air, rather than relying on refrigerants like traditional air conditioning. This means they consume up to 90% less energy when compared to conventional AC units.
Understanding ROI for energy-efficient HVAC systems
When it comes to choosing an energy-efficient HVAC system, one of the most important things to consider is the return on investment (ROI). Although energy-efficient systems might come with a higher upfront cost, they typically pay for themselves over time through lower energy bills.
When calculating ROI, you’ll need to take into account:
- Initial setup costs and installation
- The system’s lifespan
- Energy savings
- Maintenance costs.
For example, a VRF system might cost more initially, but with significant energy savings and longer lifespan, it can deliver greater returns on your investment in the long run. We can help you calculate the potential ROI for a new HVAC system, just get in touch with us.
Tips for maintaining your HVAC system
Once you’ve installed an energy-efficient HVAC system, it’s important to maintain it properly to ensure it keeps running at its best. Here are some easy maintenance tips to get the most out of your system:
1. Schedule regular maintenance
Just like any other equipment, your HVAC system needs regular check-ups to ensure it’s working efficiently. Scheduling an annual or bi-annual service with a professional will help spot any issues and keep your system running smoothly.
2. Replace or clean filters regularly
Did you know? Dirty filters can block airflow and cause your system to work harder than it needs to. To keep your HVAC system running smoothly, make sure to clean or replace filters regularly – typically every 1-3 months.
3. Check refrigerant levels
Low refrigerant levels can cause your HVAC system to struggle and consume more energy. Make sure your system’s refrigerant is at the correct level and have a professional top it up if needed.
4. Use programmable thermostats
Programmable thermostats help ensure your system runs only when needed, preventing unnecessary energy use. Set it to adjust the temperature based on when the building is in use. This way, you’re not wasting energy when rooms are empty.
5. Seal ductwork and insulation
Leaky ducts or poor insulation can lead to wasted energy. Make sure your ductwork is sealed properly. And if you haven’t already, invest in good insulation for your building. This will help your HVAC system perform more efficiently and lower your overall costs.
Key takeaways: How energy-efficient HVAC systems can save you money and boost comfort
When it comes to reducing energy costs in commercial buildings, energy-efficient HVAC systems are one of the best investments you can make.
Whether you choose a VRF system, a heat pump, or an evaporative cooler, there are plenty of options available that can help you save on energy bills and lower your environmental impact.
At Atmostherm, we’re here to help you find the right HVAC solution for your business. If you’re looking to improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and boost comfort in your commercial space, get in touch with us for expert advice, installation and maintenance services.
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