When thinking about ways to improve your commercial HVAC system, you must first consider what’s important to you. For example, is reducing maintenance calls a priority? Are you looking to lower your energy bills? Is consistent HVAC performance at the top of the list? Or, perhaps achieving all three or more might be your goal.
The good news is that commercial HVAC systems offer several ways to hit your HVAC efficiency, reliability, and energy consumption targets.
Here are our top five cost-effective ways to improve your commercial HVAC system’s performance.
Improve Air Distribution By Adding HVAC System Zones
Many rooms or sections of your building, especially if the structure is older or non-energy efficient, might have insufficient air distribution or climate control to maintain comfort, especially during the summer or winter.
In a “dead” space that is rarely utilized, a lack of climate control might not matter as much as it does in more occupied spaces. However, should the space become an office, lunchroom, or other areas where people will be in more regularly, upgrading your HVAC by adding more zones will help you better control indoor air quality.
This type of renovation will require the installation of new ductwork, as well as HVAC cooling, heating, filtration, and air handling equipment, but this investment makes sense over the long term as the space begins to earn additional revenue for your tenant.
Read More: How Zoning Systems Help Save On Energy Costs
Upgrade To HVAC Filters With A Higher MERV Rating
Most facility managers understand the importance of using high-quality filters in their commercial HVAC systems. However, not all filters offer the same level of protection against airborne pathogens entering the indoor space.
Many commercial properties still use MERV-8 filters, which don’t provide as much filtration as MERV-13 filters. MERV-13 filters trap up to 85 percent of particles from 1.0 to 3.0 microns in size. The results of upgrading to MERV-13 filters include improved air filtration, cleaner, fresher air, and a reduction in the presence of airborne pathogens, which is especially critical during cold and flu season.
Unfortunately, not all commercial HVAC systems have the capacity to work with MERV-13 filters, so be sure to have your HVAC service provider check your system’s capability.
Place Air Purifiers Into Your HVAC Air Ducts
Upgrading to MERV-13 filters will positively affect your building’s indoor air quality (IAQ), and installing in-duct or inline air purification devices will take your IAQ over the top.
Commercial HVAC induct systems use advanced air cleaning technology, such as an energy-efficient UV-light, to control indoor bacteria, germs, viruses, mould, fungi and other airborne contaminants. Installation is usually relatively fast, but it should be done by an HVAC professional to ensure the unit operates safely and efficiently.
Install A Building Automation System (BAS)
You can significantly improve your HVAC system by installing a Building Automation System (BAS). A BAS helps you save energy by automatically controlling the climate in different zones based on occupancy. For example, you can set different temperatures for occupied offices than a filing room and program individually when the heating and cooling system should operate.
This flexibility means less wasted energy by heating or cooling spaces that are generally unused. You can also preset temperature levels for weekends and holidays when people aren’t usually in the office. However, when people are present, you can be assured of consistent temperature control and enhanced occupant comfort.
A BAS can also provide real-time system diagnostics to help you catch potential issues before they can escalate into serious problems, reducing your maintenance calls and minimizing the chances of unexpected system shutdowns.
Read More: The Benefits Of Installing A Building Automation System In Your Commercial Properties
Sign Up For A Preventative HVAC Maintenance Program
Perhaps the best investment you can make in your commercial HVAC system is a preventative maintenance program from Springbank. Our packages include regular inspections, cleanings, and replacement of your HVAC parts and components, extending the life of your equipment and helping it run smoothly and reliably.
Our technicians will also remotely monitor your system, especially during peak periods, and alert you if anything requires an in-person service call.
Call Springbank For An HVAC Solution That Saves On Energy Costs
At Springbank, we provide commercial HVAC services in Toronto and Southern Ontario, focusing on reliable solutions that maximize occupant comfort while helping you save thousands of dollars in energy costs.
We specialize in maintaining, repairing, or replacing all brands and types of HVAC equipment, including rooftop units, water-cooled heat pumps, cooling towers, hot water boilers, circulating pumps, steam humidifiers, make up air units, and much more.
That’s the kind of experience you can trust to help reduce your energy consumption with a customized HVAC solution that puts your needs first.
Get in touch with our team today for a free, no-obligation discussion!
Gregg Little, Paul DeThomasis, and Hugo Lopes are co-owners of Springbank Mechanical Systems. You can reach them at 905-569-8990 or via email at gregg@springbank.com, paul@springbank.com, or hugo@springbank.com.