How to Reduce Cooling Costs in Commercial Buildings
Commercial spaces often have larger energy expenses due to cooling costs since HVAC systems often consume 35-40% of the building’s total energy use. Luckily, reducing cooling costs doesn’t always require major changes in the overall system. Find out how to reduce cooling costs in commercial buildings before replacing your entire unit.
Why Do Commercial Cooling Costs Increase?
Over time, commercial buildings experience excessive costs due to issues that can gradually develop including:
- Dirty air filters and coils
- Refrigerant charge problems
- Poor airflow balance
- Aging HVAC equipment
- Outdated controls
- Air leaks in the building envelope
- Improper operating schedules
1. Implement a Preventive HVAC Maintenance Program
The top most effective way to reduce cooling costs is through regular preventative maintenance. Routine service can identify issues before they become costly repairs. Here are just a few tasks you’ll want to ensure you get taken care of to ensure the efficiency of your HVAC system:
Key Maintenance Tasks
- Replace or clean air filters regularly
- Clean evaporator and condenser coils
- Inspect refrigerant levels
- Check belts and motors
- Verify thermostat calibration
- Inspect economizer operation
- Clean drain pans and condensate lines
2. Optimize Building Automation and HVAC Controls
Commercial buildings can waste a lot of energy on cooling unoccupied spaces. Smart HVAC controls and modern building automation systems (BAS) can adjust temperatures based on occupancy schedules, real-time building demands and weather conditions.
Best Practices
- Establish occupied and unoccupied schedules
- Implement temperature setbacks after hours
- Use occupancy sensors
- Monitor HVAC runtimes
- Review control sequences regularly
3. Use Economizers for Free Cooling
An HVAC economizer uses cool outdoor air to reduce reliance on mechanical cooling. When the outdoor air is favorable, economizers can automatically bring in outside air instead of running the compressors continuously.
Benefits of Economizers
- Reduced compressor runtime
- Lower utility bills
- Improved indoor air quality
- Extended equipment life
- Increased energy efficiency
4. Improve Airflow and Duct Performance
HVAC systems work harder when there’s poor airflow. These airflow restrictions can be caused by dirty filters, blocked vents, damaged ductwork and improperly balanced systems.
Airflow Improvements to Consider
- Seal duct leaks
- Balance air distribution
- Inspect dampers
- Remove airflow obstructions
- Upgrade to variable-speed fan technology
5. Upgrade to Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) allow motors to operate at reduced speeds based on demand. This helps lower energy consumption while maintaining comfort levels.
Applications for VFDs
- Supply fans
- Return fans
- Chilled water pumps
- Cooling tower fans
- Condenser water pumps
6. Seal and Insulate the Building Envelope
If there are gaps in seals or insulation, air can escape the building, making the HVAC system run harder. Air leaks can be found around doors, roofs, windows and walls.
Areas to Inspect
- Window seals
- Door weatherstripping
- Roof penetrations
- Loading dock doors
- Exterior wall joints
7. Replace Aging HVAC Equipment
If you have older HVAC equipment, it may be time to upgrade to a more modern system. A few ways you can tell your unit is ready to be replaced is when it’s in need of frequent repairs, more replacement parts and upkeep.
Signs It May Be Time to Upgrade
- Frequent breakdowns
- Increasing utility bills
- Inconsistent temperatures
- Poor humidity control
- Equipment over 15 years old
8. Monitor Refrigerant Charge and System Performance
Using the wrong refrigerant charge can significantly impact cooling efficiency. If the system is undercharged, it can operate longer and deliver reduced cooling capacity. Make sure to have an authorized service technician check for:
- Check refrigerant charge
- Repair leaks promptly
- Verify superheat and subcooling
- Monitor system pressures
- Inspect heat exchangers and coils
9. Utilize Energy Monitoring and Analytics
Using an energy monitoring platform can identify abnormal consumption patterns, inefficiencies in the unit and scheduling issues before they become more expensive issues.
Track metrics such as:
- Energy usage by zone
- Runtime hours
- Demand peaks
- Temperature trends
- Occupancy patterns
Check out our HVAC resources for regular maintenance tasks, cleaning tips and more.