Creating a safe indoor atmosphere is essential to the competitive Baton Rouge business environment. Such conditions will motivate your team to improve service delivery, setting you apart from competitors—which is why you need commercial HVAC units.
Besides, companies are under pressure to cut operational costs and energy consumption, which explains the sudden growth of energy-efficient HVAC units. Analysts project that the market share will rise by $24.37 billion between 2021 to 2026. So, investing in energy-efficient HVAC units in your business is no longer a question of why; it is why not.
What Are the Indicators of an Energy-Efficient HVAC System?
If you want to control your energy bills, installing an HVAC unit in your business or home is crucial. Unfortunately, most people do not know when their system is malfunctioning. Below are signs of an energy-efficient HVAC unit.
SEER & AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency Rating)
Annual Fuel Efficiency Rating reveals the efficiency of an HVAC unit in converting fuel into heat. Systems with higher AFUE ratings are the most efficient, with the best-performing HVAC units having an AFUE rating of 90% and above.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and calculates an air conditioner’s cooling output over an entire cooling session, divided by the fuel used within that period in Watt-Hours. The efficiency of an HVAC unit depends on the SEER rating level. 13 is the air conditioner’s SEER minimum standard, so the higher, the better.
Evaluating Current System Performance
The best energy-efficient HVAC systems feature improved performance and optimized airflow. A unit with clean air filters, correctly sealed ductwork, and balanced airflow distributes conditioned air efficiently. However, indicators such as weak airflow and uneven temperatures mean your HVAC system is performing poorly. It could be a result of duct blockages and leaks.
Programmable thermostat
All energy-efficient HVAC units come with a programmable thermostat. Thermostats enable users to set preferred temperature schedules during the day. This way, you adjust the cooling or heating depending on your preferences and occupancy. Besides, a programmable thermostat reduces costs by avoiding unnecessary cooling and heating.
Benefits of Energy-Efficient HVAC
Cost Savings on Utility Bills
An energy-efficient HVAC unit helps cut costs on utility bills since it consumes less energy while maintaining cool or warm temperatures within your business or home. Besides, energy-efficient units come with a higher SEER rating and can heat or cool your business’ indoor surroundings more effectively. Also, since energy-efficient systems are more durable and require minimal maintenance, they help cut costs in the long run.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Integrating energy-efficient HVAC units into businesses/homes significantly reduces energy consumption, promoting positive environmental impact and sustainability. Less energy consumption translates into reduced carbon emissions, an integral step in preventing climate change. The Environmental Protection Agency in the United States claims that structures account for 40% of total carbon dioxide emissions. Therefore, installing energy-efficient HVAC systems is crucial in preventing such emissions.
Enhanced Comfort and Consistent Temperature
HVAC units improve the business’s indoor environment, ensuring occupants enjoy serenity and comfort. It attains that by promoting regular temperature control, adequate ventilation, balanced humidity levels, and a conducive working environment.
Upgrading to an Energy-Efficient HVAC System
Different factors define an efficient HVAC system. And having an upgraded unit can make all the difference in your business.
When to Consider Upgrading Your HVAC Unit?
It is advisable to upgrade your HVAC units after every 10 to 12 years. That’s because a unit that’s a decade old is outdated in both energy efficiency and technology. But that doesn’t mean you must wait for all those years before upgrading your HVAC system. Do it sooner, especially if the weather is crazy in your area. Here are telltale signs that your system needs an upgrade;
- Increase in utility bills
- Frequent unit breakdowns
- Expensive maintenance and repair costs
- High indoor humidity
- Problems cooling your working environment
Selecting the Right Energy-Efficient Model
Multiple factors should influence your decision when looking for a suitable energy-efficient model. Here is what to keep in mind:
Energy Star certification
EPA, or the Environmental Protection Agency, awards an energy start certification to products that align with the energy efficiency requirements. So, if your HVAC unit comes with an energy tag, it’s energy-efficient and highly functional.
Energy efficiency ratings
When purchasing an HVAC unit, consider its energy efficiency ratings and annual fuel utilization efficiency. Products with higher SEER and AFUE mean improved energy efficiency.
Right-Sizing
Pay attention to the size of your HVAC unit. You can consult a professional to determine the correct size. ClimaServ has got you covered! The right HVAC in Baton Rouge depends on factors such as room insulation, heat needed, ceiling height, number of occupants, etc. Remember, oversized units have excessive energy consumption, while undersized ones are ineffective.
Maintaining Efficiency in HVAC Systems
Routine Maintenance for Sustained Efficiency
Routine maintenance of your HVAC units leads to sustained efficiency. Here are key actions that can help you achieve that;
Regular cleaning and replacing of filters: Filters trap pollen, dust, and tiny particles that enter your HVAC unit. With time, the filters block, hindering airflow and reducing efficiency. However, cleaning and replacing the filters regularly will boost your system performance.
Lubricate moving parts: An HVAC unit has multiple moving sections that need regular lubrication to enhance smooth operation. Proper lubrication helps avoid wear and tear, increasing your system’s lifespan.
Ductwork inspection and cleaning: Ductwork carries conditioned air throughout your working space. However, the ducts can become clogged with dirt, debris, and dust with time, affecting the unit’s efficiency. You can correct that through occasional cleanings and inspections.
Regularly inspect refrigerant levels: Refrigerant is the most central part of your system. Low refrigerant levels lead to system inefficiency and high energy consumption. Regular inspection helps maintain refrigerant levels, promoting incredible heating and cooling performance.
Tips for Optimizing Current HVAC Performance
You can optimize your HVAC unit performance by doing the following;
- Invest in the right HVAC system
- Regular preventive maintenance
- Choose a system with a programmable thermostat
- Upgrade your HVAC system
- Insulate your doors to reduce air transfer
- Demand controlled ventilation
Are You Ready to Upgrade to Energy Efficient HVAC Unit?
Energy-efficient HVAC units have several benefits, from lower operational costs to improved energy efficiency, environmental benefits, productivity, and more. So, it is important not to underestimate the need to install energy-efficient HVAC systems. That’s where ClimaServ HVAC professional contractors come in. We take pride in years of experience serving clients in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Whether you want to install energy-efficient HVAC systems in your home or business or need a system upgrade, we have your back. Our prices are reasonable.
Reach out by completing the contact form now!
