In recent years, energy efficiency and sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint on the environment have moved from the “let’s take a look at it” phase to the “let’s take action” phase when it comes to commercial HVAC applications. Of course, commercial builders have always been interested in the bottom line and now they realize that recent trends in commercial HVAC strategies and systems can help them save money, as well as preserve resources and help protect the environment. This is great news as some industry reports estimate that more than 10 percent of the world’s energy supply is consumed by commercial buildings. Armstrong Plumbing, Air & Electric has provided the Lubbock business community with HVAC service for decades and our partnership with commercial customers is a vital part of our business. So, we want those partners to know about trends in the commercial HVAC world.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY TRENDS
HVAC technology has improved the overall efficiency of today’s HVAC systems and nowhere is this more true than commercial applications. Here are some ways that commercial systems are evolving:
- Alternative energy sources. Renewable energy sources are a great way for businesses to save money on utility costs and reduce environmental impact. At the top of the list is solar power, which uses the never ending, free and clean energy of the sun. Wind and geothermal energy are also viable solutions.
- Daylighting. This is just what it sounds like it is: commercial building design and construction utilizing windows, skylights, natural doorways/openings and reflective surfaces to capture sunlight for the HVAC system. These systems may also include a responsive control system that helps adjust brightness and regulate the system efficiency and costs.
- Improved high efficiency systems. The HVAC system in a commercial building can gobble up more than 50 percent of the building’s overall energy usage, which means many owners/managers have those utility bills at the top of the overhead expenditures list. Today’s systems boast improved efficiency ratings, and advanced features such as multi-stage air volume fan control and adjustable speed drives that control motor speed and reduce energy consumption.
Here are some ways commercial building owners are incorporating new trends into their HVAC system management:
- Smart technology. The days of manually setting and controlling an HVAC system are coming to an end. Smart systems that are controlled from a remote on a variety of devices are the wave of the future. These systems offer more continuity, efficiency and also help to keep maintenance schedules on track.
- Duct sealing/ductless unit installation. Keeping the ductwork sealed is critical to preventing air loss and wasting energy. Also, some commercial owners and contractors are choosing to go with ductless units for custom needs and as answers to a pricier traditional ductwork system.
- Energy recovery ventilation. These systems capture exhausted air and use it to condition incoming air. This technology reduces HVAC needs while keeping the desired areas climate controlled.
- Electronically alternated motors. These motors include a variable-speed feature that helps to reduce energy usage by commuting the blower speed lower or higher to match the particular demand at any given time.
LUBBOCK COMMERCIAL HVAC HEADQUARTERS
Better Call Armstrong for all your commercial HVAC needs. Our professionals have been doing it longer and better than anybody else in the Lubbock area! And don’t forget to keep up with us on social media.
