Energy and HVAC Optimization

Let's discuss 30-40% of the power bill. That's just how much it costs the typical homeowner or commercial building owner to offer proper heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC). A great HVAC system is key to maintaining a comfy, healthy and interior environment. Throughout the years, We have been asked by a lot of owners for any strategy to lower their price of energy and HVAC. They don't wish to sacrifice the inside environmental conditions, however they do need a point-by-point intend to follow. The interesting thing that frequently happens is the fact that energy bills are lowered substantially as well as the HVAC system performance is improved. This can be a standard purpose of any mechanical engineer focusing on energy and HVAC.

The details in this article can help homeowners, building owners and building operators make informed decisions about existing HVAC systems or future upgrades.

    Load Reduction

    HVAC Systems

    Control Systems

    Operation and Maintenance

Load Reduction

The initial step to accomplish energy and HVAC system optimization is load reduction. This task normally is made up of long range plan which itemizes the actions to become taken according to best return on your investment. Lowering your building load allows the current HVAC system to use more effectively. In case a new system or systems are now being considered, it will likely be more economical to create for your reduced load rather than the existing load. A couple of common load reduction strategies include:

    Tighten the property shell and add more insulation. Adding insulation in existing buildings might not be achievable in some circumstances, so more consideration ought to be targeted at the outside shell, especially doors and windows.

    Installing energy-efficient windows. This can be a big item on some buildings that also have single pane windows. Installing double pane windows having a thermal break is an excellent return on your investment. Make certain they are ENERGY STAR qualified windows. Tinting or Low-E coatings may even be much better.

    Upgrading lighting systems. The typical commercial building features a lighting density of 2-3 watts per sq . ft . which maintains proper lighting levels. This can be a significant area of the HVAC load and just about any efforts within this direction will lower the cooling requirement of the property. Accent lighting (sometimes called architectural lighting) usually are not always energy-efficient and must not be considered if you wish to reduce energy and HVAC costs. Energy-efficient lighting systems emit less heat into conditioned space than older incandescent technology. For those who have a return air plenum rather than return air ductwork, consider light troffers to ensure that a few of the heat from your lights is returned towards the HVAC system rather than entering the occupied area.

    Selecting efficient equipment and electronics which have an electrical saver option will decrease the sensible heat grow in the area. Things to consider include copy machines, kitchen equipment, computers and refrigerators.

    Control ventilation with your outside air balanced. Most building owners have drawings from the original HVAC system installation. Possess the drawings reviewed with a mechanical engineer to verify your outside ventilation rates comply with the most recent code requirements. If no drawings can be found, your mechanical engineer should still have the ability to make tips for improvement.