Commercial HVAC Sustainability: 5 Tips to Improve Efficiency
Proper maintenance and thoughtful equipment choices can make your commercial HVAC system more sustainable and cost-effective. Estes Services can guide you in selecting the right solutions for your building while adhering to regulations such as the national HFC phasedown.
Sustainable Tip #1: Proper HVAC Maintenance and Refrigerant Management
Maintenance activities include checking and repairing refrigerant leaks to ensure your system operates efficiently. New commercial HVAC systems often use environmentally friendly refrigerants with lower global warming potential (GWP).
Sustainable Tip #2: Replace with High-Efficiency HVAC Equipment
Selecting high-efficiency commercial HVAC equipment can enhance building sustainability and minimize environmental impact. Sources like ConsumerAffairs and ServiceTitan indicate that approximately three million U.S. heating and cooling systems are replaced annually. underscoring the importance of selecting the right equipment.
Ensure units are properly sized. ENERGY STAR-certified equipment helps reduce energy waste, as many rooftop units are oversized, leading to higher energy use and wear. Proper installation can yield significant annual energy savings and extend the life of equipment.
If your AC unit is over 15 years old, replacement is likely recommended. Units 10-15 years old should be assessed based on repair costs versus replacement costs.
A commercial HVAC technician can help you select the most suitable equipment for your specific needs.
Sustainable Tip #3: Consider Heat Pump or Ductless Mini-Split Technology
Heat pumps and ductless mini-splits provide energy-efficient solutions for commercial buildings. Heat pumps reduce operational costs and are ideal for mixed-use, schools, and net-zero buildings. Learn more about heat pump installation and sustainability benefits.
Ductless mini-splits offer zoned cooling and minimal ductwork, reducing energy loss. The DOE estimates duct losses account for more than 30% of AC energy consumption. Estes Services can help with installation in the greater Atlanta area.
Sustainable Tip #4: Pay Attention to New Refrigerant Choices and Regulations
Older refrigerants, such as R-22, have been phased out due to concerns about ozone depletion. The transition to HFCs and other environmentally friendly refrigerants is guided by regulations such as the AIM Act. Choosing the right refrigerant reduces environmental impact and ensures compliance.
Sustainable Tip #5: Implement Smart Technology
Building automation systems connect HVAC, lighting, and electrical systems for centralized control. Smart sensors monitor occupancy, temperature, and humidity to optimize energy usage, minimize waste, and extend the lifespan of HVAC systems.
Smart technology enables data-driven decisions for sustainable building operations, eliminating the need for constant manual oversight.
Schedule a Sustainable Commercial HVAC Consultation
Whether upgrading equipment, adopting smart technology, or optimizing refrigerants, every step toward sustainability counts. Estes Services has been helping the greater Atlanta area improve commercial HVAC efficiency and sustainability since 1949.
We can help your building reduce energy consumption, lower costs, and meet sustainability goals. Schedule a consultation today. It's that Easy; It's Estes!
