Even as summer comes to a close, we still have to brace ourselves for some hot and humid days ahead. Rising energy prices have made it more important than ever to keep our energy consumption in check. For those responsible for the energy bill of a commercial building, reducing energy usage is crucial. Due to their size and the number of occupants, commercial buildings tend to consume much more energy than residential buildings.
Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce energy consumption without compromising comfort or productivity. As a leading commercial electrical company, WACOMM has put together this article on energy-saving tips guaranteed to help you lower your energy usage, save money on your energy bill, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
10 energy-saving tips
These tips cover a range of areas, including HVAC systems, lighting, and office equipment. Whether you’re a building owner, manager, or tenant, implementing these tips can help you make significant energy savings.
#1 Adjust the thermostat
One of the simplest ways to save energy in a commercial building is by adjusting the thermostat. On hot days, it’s essential to set the temperature to a comfortable level for employees but not too cold. For every degree you raise the thermostat, you can save up to 5% on your energy bill. The ideal temperature range during summer is 24-25°C.
However, it’s not just the temperature that matters. You also need to consider the humidity level. High humidity can make it feel warmer than it actually is and make the air conditioning work harder. To combat this, use a dehumidifier or install a separate humidity control system.
Finally, don’t forget to turn off the air conditioning when the building is empty or during non-working hours. You can set a timer or use a smart thermostat that can be controlled remotely.
#2 Use natural ventilation
Natural ventilation is an excellent way to cool down your building without using air conditioning. If your building has windows, open them whenever possible to let in the fresh air. You can also use doors and other openings to create cross-ventilation.
If you have ceiling fans or other circulating fans, turn them on to help move the air around the building. This can make the space feel more comfortable without having to lower the temperature.
However, keep in mind that natural ventilation may not always be practical, especially in areas with high levels of pollution or allergens. In these cases, air conditioning may be necessary.
#3 Use energy-efficient lighting
Lighting can account for a significant portion of a commercial building’s energy consumption. By switching to energy-efficient lighting, you can save money and reduce your carbon footprint. LED lights are the most energy-efficient option, using up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and lasting up to 25 times longer. Read more about the advantages of LED lights.
You can also install motion sensors and timers to automatically turn off lights in empty rooms or during non-working hours. This can help to reduce energy waste and save money on your energy bill.
#4 Install solar panels
Solar panels are an excellent way to generate renewable energy and reduce your reliance on the grid. They can help to offset the energy consumed by air conditioning, lighting, and other appliances. In Australia, commercial solar panels are eligible for government incentives, so it’s worth looking into whether you can get a rebate for installing solar panels.
However, installing solar panels can be expensive upfront. You need to consider the payback period and the potential savings over time. It’s also essential to work with a reputable installer who can help you choose the right size and type of solar panel system for your building.
#5 Improve insulation
Proper insulation can help to keep your building cool in summer and warm in winter. Insulate walls, ceilings, and floors to prevent heat from entering or leaving the building. This can help to reduce the load on your air conditioning system and save energy.
Check for air leaks around windows and doors, and seal them with weatherstripping or caulking. You can also install double-glazed windows, which can provide better insulation and reduce noise pollution.
However, improving insulation can be costly, especially if your building is old or has structural issues. It’s essential to work with a professional contractor who can help you identify the areas that need insulation and recommend the right materials.
#6 Use shading devices
Shading devices can help to block the sun’s heat and reduce the amount of energy needed to cool your building. Install shades, blinds, or curtains on windows that face the sun. You can also install awnings or plant trees outside to provide natural shade.
However, shading devices can also block natural light and reduce the amount of daylight entering the building. This can lead to increased energy consumption from artificial lighting. To strike a balance, consider using light-coloured shades or curtains that can block the sun’s heat while still allowing natural light to enter the building.
#7 Maintain your HVAC system
Regular maintenance of your HVAC system can help to keep it running efficiently and reduce energy waste. Change the air filters regularly to prevent them from becoming clogged, which can reduce airflow and make the system work harder. Clean the coils and condenser unit to ensure they are free of debris and operating at peak efficiency.
It’s also essential to have your system regularly inspected by professional commercial electrical companies Perth, such as a team member of WACOMM. We can identify any issues that may be affecting your system’s efficiency and recommend repairs or upgrades.
Finally, consider upgrading your HVAC system to a more energy-efficient model. Newer models can be up to 30% more efficient than older models, and they may be eligible for government incentives.
#8 Reduce hot water consumption
Hot water consumption can also account for a significant portion of a commercial building’s energy use. To reduce hot water consumption, consider installing low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets. These can reduce water usage by up to 50% without sacrificing performance.
Insulate your hot water pipes to prevent heat loss and reduce the time it takes for hot water to reach the tap. You can also install a hot water recirculation system to provide instant hot water to all taps without the need to wait for the water to heat up.
Finally, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient hot water system, such as a solar hot water system or a heat pump hot water system. These can help to reduce your energy consumption and save money on your energy bill.
#9 Use energy-efficient appliances
Energy-efficient appliances can help to reduce your building’s energy consumption and save money on your energy bill. Look for appliances with the Energy Star label, which indicates that they meet high energy efficiency standards.
Replace old appliances, such as refrigerators, freezers, and dishwashers, with newer, more energy-efficient models. This can help to reduce energy waste and save money on your energy bill over time.
#10 Educate your employees
Finally, it’s essential to educate your employees on energy-saving practices and encourage them to participate in energy-saving efforts. Provide training on how to use energy-efficient appliances and equipment, turn off lights and electronics when not in use, and adjust the thermostat to a comfortable level.
Consider implementing an energy-saving competition or challenge to encourage employees to participate in energy-saving efforts. Reward employees who make a significant contribution to energy savings, such as turning off lights and electronics at the end of the day.
What can WACOMM do for your commercial building?
WACOMM specialises in providing energy-efficient solutions for commercial buildings. With over 20 years of experience, we offer a wide range of products and services aimed at reducing energy consumption and costs.
- Building automation systems: Our automation systems can control lighting, HVAC, security, and other systems to optimise energy usage and reduce waste. Additionally, our systems can provide detailed data on energy usage, allowing you to identify inefficiencies and take corrective action.
- LED lighting solutions: LED lighting solutions can significantly reduce your lighting costs while providing better illumination. We offer both retrofitting services to convert existing lighting systems to LED and new installations for complete lighting solutions. Our lighting systems are designed to be low maintenance and can last up to 10 times longer than traditional lighting systems.
- HVAC systems: WACOMM offers energy-efficient HVAC systems that are designed to provide maximum comfort while minimising energy consumption. We provide comprehensive HVAC solutions for commercial buildings, including design, installation, and maintenance.
- Solar power systems: A solar power system can significantly reduce your reliance on grid power and lower your energy costs. WACOMM offer both rooftop and ground-mounted solar solutions that are tailored to meet your energy needs. Our solar systems can help you generate clean energy and reduce your carbon footprint.
- Energy audits: WACOMM offers comprehensive energy audits that can help you identify areas where you can reduce your energy consumption and costs. Our energy audits involve a detailed analysis of your building’s energy usage, identifying areas of waste and recommending solutions to improve efficiency. Read more about how a commercial energy audit can benefit your business.
- Power factor correction: WACOMM can help you improve your building’s power factor, which can reduce your energy consumption and costs. We provide a range of power factor correction solutions, including capacitors, reactors, and harmonic filters. Our power factor correction solutions can help you improve the efficiency of your electrical systems and reduce waste.
Do you require security electrical services? WACOMM is a leading provider of security products and services too. Learn more about what WACOMM can do for the security of your building.
Final words
Reducing energy consumption in commercial buildings is not only an environmentally responsible practice but also a financially savvy one. By implementing the energy-saving tips outlined in this article, you can significantly reduce your energy bills and contribute to a more sustainable future.
If you’re interested in exploring energy-efficient solutions for your commercial building, consider reaching out to WACOMM. As a leading provider of energy-saving products and services in Australia, WACOMM offers a wide range of solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of commercial buildings. Don’t wait to start saving on your energy bills and reducing your carbon footprint. Contact WACOMM today to learn more about how they can help you achieve your energy-saving objectives.