Green Building Tips
Scheduled preventative maintenance (O&M) procedures to ensure that HVAC systems are performing at optimal levels. (For example, cleaning or changing filters will increase air flow and lower power consumption.)
Perform regularly scheduled maintenance on cooling equipment. Regularly clean condenser coils, change belts and filters and fix duct leaks. Also check for proper economizer operation and adequate refrigerant levels. Maintenance activities "can save up to 30% of fan energy and up to 10% of space conditioning energy use".[www.pwgsc.gc.ca]
Analyzing system loads can allow staged responses. The building automation system can bring equipment online as required. Check HVAC runtimes and reduce or put on EMS (Energy Management System) optimum start program.
Rebalance air CFM, in hot zones to minimize need for DX cooling. CFM, cubic feet per minute, a measurement of the velocity at which air flows into or out of a space. Direct Expansion (DX) products offer flexible cooling solutions
Digital thermostats will save energy by keeping temperatures closer to the set point. Commercial thermostats will allow recalibration.
Installing occupancy sensors is an economical way to achieve energy savings for spaces that are occupied for limited hours. They are often installed in washrooms, warehouse and storage spaces, to control lighting and ventilation. Financial incentives are currently available through the BC Hydro Power smart Program for this product.
Reset heating only thermostats in common areas to lower than standard temperatures (below 65 degrees) and lock out changes via DDC. [Note: This option should only be used if it does not activate cooling equipment.]
Install carbon monoxide sensors to control exhaust fans so that the fans run only when carbon monoxide levels are high enough to require venting.
Replace older lighting with energy efficient lighting products. Financial incentives are currently available through the BC Hydro Power smart Program for approved products.
Install adjustable speed drives (ASDs) on fans and pumps where possible. In addition to reduced cycling and smoother equipment operation, ASDs can provide impressive energy savings. For example, lowering air flows by reducing fan speed rather than using dampers can result in impressive energy savings. A 50% reduction in fan speed can result in an 87% reduction in energy consumption. Financial incentives are currently available through the BC Hydro Power smart Program for this product.[H&V News]
When old motors fail, replace them with premium efficiency motors that operate at a lower annual cost. Ensure you specify the proper sized motor for the application. Install variable speed drives (VSDs) on large motor loads, where appropriate, to further reduce energy usage.
