As facility and maintenance managers continue to strive for top building performance, energy efficiency remains an important factor in cutting costs, boosting efficiency, and increasing sustainability. Maintaining existing equipment, installing more efficient options, and leaning on technology are just a few ways that maintenance managers can lower expenses and get closer to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals.
HVAC
Keeping your HVAC in tip-top shape can help your building run at its most efficient. For example, if your air filters are dirty, it means that your system has to work harder, expending more energy to get the job done. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, changing clogged air filters can lower energy consumption by as much as 5 to 15 per cent.
Outdoor intake can also be an issue with your HVAC system, so consult a professional technician to adjust dampers to lessen outdoor air intake and keep your building warm.
Green choices
Increasing the sustainability of your building can improve efficiency with just a few simple steps. Switching your thermostat to a timer so that it heats most when there are people in the building can reduce the energy being used while your building is vacant. Going mobile can help, too, with smart technology and apps making it simple to set and adjust your thermostats remotely as needed. There are also elements like smart glass that can be installed to help regulate energy use and keep your building heated and cooled more organically.
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If you still have traditional lighting, switching to LEDs can also help boost efficiency and lower energy costs. Again, technology including sensors and timers can help to limit wasted energy consumption in washrooms, parking lots, stairwells, and more. Assess your building for opportunities to install technology that will help increase your building’s performance.
Train your team
Train staff in sustainability policies like closing doors and windows with outdoor access, using environmentally friendly products, and ask them to initiate new ways to help reach your sustainability goals and reduce costs. Being part of a team means that you are all working together towards the same goals and getting fresh ideas can help increase your efforts.
As part of your maintenance plan, set a schedule to regularly check your HVAC, ensure that your outdoor condenser is leaf and debris-free, inspect doors and windows for air leakage, do your research, and take a proactive approach to achieve your goals through the winter.
