The Solution
The two main ways to combat energy waste here are: - Check the building for leaks to make sure you aren't losing the air you paid to heat or cool.
- Make sure your heating and/or cooling system runs as efficiently as possible.
Other tips: - Make sure that your programmable thermostat is set to 68° or less during the daytime, and 55° at night. These temperature settings could reduce your heating costs by up to 20%. During the summer set your thermostats to 78° during the day.
- Post "KEEP DOORS CLOSED" signs in service corridors, entryways, and hallways.
- Keep skylights clean in winter to allow sunlight to come in.
- Shift usage to off-peak rates for cooling. Technology is available to enable businesses to create cool air during evening, or off-peak hours, that can be used throughout the following day.
- Sub-cool buildings during off-peak hours using outside air only.
- Put timers on hot water heaters, so they automatically turn off at night.
- An electronic thermostat for cooling towers (more accurate).
There are a number of programs available to businesses to help increase HVAC efficiency:
Air Care Plus
AirCare Plus is designed to optimize the performance of commercial rooftop or split HVAC systems that range in size from three to 60 tons. The program's goal is to lower energy bills and reduce equipment failure. Certified AirCare Plus technicians will screen your HVAC unit to identify and fix problems with the thermostat, airflow, charge and economizer. For more information: 866.222.7344; info@aircare-plus.com
Ice Storage- Shift n' Save
This program, which is available to Pacific Gas and Electric Company customers, pays incentives for businesses to permanently shift their HVAC-related energy use to off-peak times, when energy rates are lower. Technology is installed to create ice storage during the night that is used to cool the building the next day.
Big Ass Fans
Big Ass Fans are highly efficient ceiling fans that produce an even airflow. They're made for large spaces, and to distribute hot and cold air evenly throughout an area. Big Ass fans provide 25+ times the airflow of a standard industrial ceiling fan. For example, in a building with a 30-foot ceiling height on a winter day, it's not uncommon for the temperature to differ 20ºF from ceiling to floor. Big Ass Fans gently drive that hot ceiling-level air down to the floor, reducing heating bills by 25% or more.
Pacific Energy Center (PEC)
PEC HVAC programs provide information, design tools, advice, and support to assist in creating resource-efficient buildings that are also comfortable for occupants. PEC mostly focuses on commercial buildings; however, they also offer advice and information for residential buildings.
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