The Section 179D Energy Efficient Commercial Buildings Deduction, a staple of the industry for two decades, is officially scheduled to sunset on June 30, 2026, under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).

For building owners, developers, and designers, the message is clear: If you haven’t started construction by mid-summer, you are leaving up to $5.94 per square foot on the table.

What’s at Stake? (The 2026 Numbers)

Thanks to the latest IRS inflation adjustments (Rev. Proc. 2025-32), the 2026 deduction rates are the highest they have ever been. Depending on your project’s labor standards and efficiency gains, the potential savings are substantial.

The Two Pathways

1. The Base Rate: For projects that achieve at least 25% energy savings but do not meet specific labor requirements, the deduction ranges from $0.59 to $1.19 per sq. ft.
2. The Bonus Rate (PWA): For projects that meet Prevailing Wage and Apprenticeship (PWA) requirements, the deduction jumps significantly to a range of $2.97 to $5.94 per sq. ft.

To calculate your maximum potential benefit, you can use the following logic:

$$\text{Total Deduction} = \text{Building Area (sq. ft.)} \times \text{Applicable Dollar Value (up to \$5.94)}$$

For a 100,000 sq. ft. warehouse or office complex, that is a swing of nearly $600,000 in immediate tax relief.

The “Beginning of Construction” Trap

The most critical detail of the 2026 sunset is the definition of “Beginning Construction.” You do not need to finish the project by June 30, but you must prove you started. The IRS typically recognizes two methods:

• The Physical Work Test: This requires “significant physical work” to have begun. In our industry, this means foundation excavation, setting anchor bolts, or permanent installation of components. Preliminary site clearing or design work does not count.
• The 5% Safe Harbor: You must have paid or incurred at least 5% of the total cost of the energy-efficient property before the deadline.

Why Proactive Planning Matters Now

Waiting until May to “talk to the engineers” will be too late. To secure this deduction, a project requires:

1. Energy Modeling: A third-party professional must model the building against the ASHRAE 90.1 standards to certify the 25%+ savings. Although the IRS does not mandate a specific modeling protocol, it is an accepted way of demonstrating the savings for the deduction. The modeling procedures come from regulation and practice. Controlled Air utilizes Carrier’s Hourly Analysis Program (HAP) to provide the precise energy modeling required for high-performance building design. This software is an industry standard for performing the 8,760-hour simulations necessary to demonstrate compliance with ASHRAE 90.1 and federal tax requirements. By leveraging this ASHRAE-approved tool, we ensure your facility’s projected energy savings are both technically accurate and professionally certified.
2. PWA Documentation: If you are aiming for the $5.94 bonus rate, your payroll and apprenticeship records must be airtight from day one.
3. Designer Allocation: For government or non-profit buildings, the tax-exempt owner can allocate this deduction to the Primary Designer (architect, engineer, or design-build contractor). This is not automatic, but an eligible entity can allocate the deduction.

The Bottom Line

Section 179D has been a cornerstone for financing HVAC retrofits, lighting upgrades, and high-performance building envelopes. After June 30, that “extra” capital disappears from the market.

Is your pipeline ready? Our team is currently prioritizing site audits and energy modeling for clients looking to lock in their 179D eligibility before the summer deadline.

Controlled Air and its affiliates are not tax, legal, or accounting professionals; this information is for educational purposes only, and you should consult with your own qualified accountant or attorney to determine the specific benefits and eligibility for your facility.

The post The 179D Sunset: Why Your Efficiency Upgrades Must Break Ground by June 30 appeared first on Controlled Air, Inc..

In the world of commercial buildings, efficient and reliable HVAC isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity. It impacts everything from tenant comfort and employee productivity to your bottom line. As part of Yanmar, we’re incredibly excited to unveil: the New Yanmar Rooftop Unit (RTU).

This isn’t just another HVAC system; it’s a testament to superior design, unparalleled efficiency, and a commitment to long-term value. Let’s dive into what makes the Yanmar RTU the smart choice for your next commercial HVAC upgrade.

Engineered for Excellence, Built for Performance

The New Yanmar RTU embodies our core philosophy: to deliver robust, efficient, and reliable solutions. Every aspect of this unit has been meticulously designed to maximize comfort while significantly minimizing operating costs.

• Exceptional Efficiency: With an impressive IEER (Integrated Energy Efficiency Ratio) of up to 21.3, the Yanmar RTU sets a new standard for energy savings. This high efficiency translates directly into lower utility bills, making it a sound investment that pays dividends over its lifespan.
• Durable Construction: We know that a rooftop unit needs to withstand the elements. That’s why the Yanmar RTU features double-wall, 20-gauge panels, providing superior durability, enhanced thermal performance, and quieter operation.
• Made in the USA: Quality control and efficient logistics are paramount. Being Made in the USA not only ensures the highest standards of manufacturing but also allows for lead times as short as 4 weeks, getting your new system up and running faster.

The Power of Choice: Three Models for Every Need

Understanding that every commercial space has unique requirements, the Yanmar RTU comes in three versatile models:

1. Standard Rooftop Unit: Our core offering provides robust and efficient heating and cooling, perfect for a wide range of applications. Download Brochure
2. Advanced Heat Pump Technology with Dual-Fuel Capability: This innovative model integrates an advanced electric heat pump with natural gas auxiliary heat. It intelligently shifts between electric and gas operation based on outdoor temperatures, ensuring year-round climate control that is both cost-effective and energy-efficient. It’s intelligent climate control that adapts to your environment. Download Brochure
3. Dedicated Outdoor Air Rooftop Unit (DOAS): Designed to deliver precisely conditioned outdoor air, improving indoor air quality and ventilation for healthier, more comfortable environments. Download Brochure

Unmatched Peace of Mind: Industry-Leading Warranties

Investing in an HVAC system is a significant decision. We stand by the quality and durability of the Yanmar RTU with warranties that truly set us apart:

• 5-Year Parts Warranty: Our comprehensive parts warranty covers your investment, reflecting our confidence in the components we use.
• 25-Year Non-Prorated Heat Exchanger Warranty: This is an industry-leading commitment. A non-prorated warranty means that the coverage value does not decrease over time, ensuring your critical heat exchanger is protected for a quarter-century. This offers unparalleled long-term security and peace of mind.

Simplifying Your Upgrade: A Seamless Transition

We believe that upgrading your commercial HVAC system shouldn’t be a headache. The Yanmar RTU is designed for a seamless transition:

• Innovative In-House Curb Adapters: Our specially designed curb adapters ensure a simple, reliable swap that perfectly fits your existing footprint. This dramatically reduces installation time and complexity, minimizing disruption to your business operations.
• Fast Availability: With units Made in the USA and lead times as short as 4 weeks, you can experience the benefits of superior comfort and efficiency sooner rather than later.

Experience the Yanmar Difference

The New Yanmar Rooftop Unit represents the pinnacle of commercial HVAC technology—combining advanced features, robust construction, exceptional efficiency, and unparalleled warranties. It’s more than just a unit; it’s a strategic investment in the comfort, efficiency, and long-term value of your commercial property.

Ready to elevate your building’s performance? Contact us today to learn more about the Yanmar RTU and discover how it can transform your commercial HVAC experience.

The post Experience the Next Generation of Commercial HVAC: Introducing the New Yanmar Rooftop Unit appeared first on Controlled Air, Inc..

The ROI of a Retrofit 

Upgrading your HVAC isn’t just about replacing old equipment; it’s a direct investment in your property’s value and operational efficiency. A modern, high-efficiency system can deliver a significant return on investment (ROI) by:

• Slashing Energy Costs: New technology uses far less energy, leading to substantial savings on your monthly utility bills. This is especially critical with today’s fluctuating energy prices.
• Improving Air Quality and Tenant Comfort: Better filtration and climate control create a healthier, more comfortable environment, which can attract and retain tenants or improve employee productivity.
• Avoiding Costly Breakdowns: A planned upgrade eliminates the risk and expense of an emergency system failure, which can lead to lost business and revenue.
• Boosting Asset Value: A modernized building with a high-efficiency HVAC system is more attractive to buyers and can command a higher market price.

Unlock Your Savings with Tax Benefits

Beyond the direct savings, a major HVAC upgrade can offer significant tax advantages. For many businesses, the full cost of a new HVAC system can be deducted in the year it’s placed in service, thanks to Section 179 of the IRS tax code. This powerful incentive can dramatically reduce your taxable income, making a retrofit even more financially appealing. It’s a win-win: you upgrade your building and keep more money in your pocket.

Financing Made Simple with Controlled Air 

At Controlled Air, we understand that even with clear benefits, the upfront cost can be a barrier. That’s why we’ve partnered with industry-leading financial institutions to offer flexible, hassle-free financing options that fit your budget. Our process is designed to be quick and simple, often getting you the funds you need much faster than a traditional bank loan.

Option 1: For Projects Up to $1 Million

We offer competitive financing for projects ranging from $5,000 to $1,000,000. The process is streamlined to get you a decision fast.

• No Red Tape: All businesses receive the same competitive rate, regardless of building ownership status or the need for real estate liens.
• Accessibility: We also have solutions for small non-profit projects and religious organizations.
• Simplicity: For financing up to $250,000, no personal financials are required, making it incredibly easy to get started.

Option 2: For Large-Scale Projects

If your project is more extensive, our second option covers financing from $50,000 to over $28 million.

• Long-Term Solutions: With terms available from 7 to 20 years, this is an ideal option for schools, non-profits, government and municipal entities.
• Commercial buildings have terms available up to 7 years.
• Customized Rates: Interest rates vary based on the specific project and terms, ensuring a solution tailored to your needs.

Don’t let an outdated HVAC system hold your business back. By leveraging a smart retrofit, significant tax benefits, and our flexible financing options, you can improve your building’s performance, save money, and gain peace of mind.

Ready to get started? Please speak with your sales contact to learn more and take the first step toward a more efficient, profitable future.

Disclaimer: This information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with a legal professional to draft a financing clause that complies with all applicable laws and regulations. We recommend speaking with your tax professional to confirm rebate and tax incentives available for your company. Each companies situation is different.

The post Upgrade Your HVAC, Not Your Stress: The Smart Path to a Modern Building appeared first on Controlled Air, Inc..

This is where a professional energy evaluation comes in. More than just a review of your utility bills, an energy evaluation is a deep dive into your facility’s energy patterns, revealing hidden inefficiencies and pinpointing opportunities for significant improvements. At Controlled Air Inc., our Agile Facility Management (AFM) System is built on this very principle, designed to empower building owners with the knowledge they need to take control of their energy future.

What Does an Energy Evaluation Uncover?

An energy evaluation, particularly through an approach like our AFM System, goes beyond surface-level observations. It meticulously analyzes your building’s systems – from HVAC and lighting to insulation and operational schedules – to understand exactly how and where energy is being consumed. The goal is to provide informative and utilizable information that translates directly into actionable insights.

The Transformative Benefits for Your Business:

Engaging in a comprehensive energy evaluation offers a multitude of benefits that directly impact your bottom line and operational efficiency:

1. Uncover the True Cost of Ownership: Your energy bill is just a number, but an evaluation breaks down what that number truly represents. It educates you on the real cost of ownership related to your energy consumption, helping you understand the financial implications of every watt and therm. This clarity is the first step toward effective management.
2. Achieve Significant Energy Budget Reductions: The primary objective of an energy evaluation is to identify ways to save money. By pinpointing inefficient equipment, operational waste, and areas for improvement, businesses can implement targeted Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs) that offer the highest Return on Investment (ROI). This means tangible, measurable reductions in your monthly energy expenditures.
3. Make Informed Energy Service Decisions: Guesswork leads to wasted resources. An energy evaluation provides the data and insights necessary to make informed energy service decisions. You’ll understand which upgrades are truly beneficial, which maintenance strategies are most effective, and how technology can be leveraged to optimize your energy use.
4. Drive Operational Excellence: Energy efficiency isn’t just about saving money; it’s about optimizing how your entire facility runs. By addressing energy inefficiencies, you often streamline operations, improve system performance, and enhance the overall reliability of your building’s infrastructure. This contributes directly to achieving operational excellence.
5. Establish Environmental Leadership: In an era where sustainability is increasingly important, an energy evaluation helps you reduce your carbon footprint. By consuming less energy, your business demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental responsibility, enhancing your brand reputation and potentially meeting regulatory requirements. Becoming an environmental leader can also appeal to eco-conscious customers and partners.
6. Increase Asset Value: An energy-efficient building is a more valuable asset. Lower operating costs and a reduced environmental impact make your property more attractive, whether for long-term ownership or potential resale.

Take Control of Your Energy Future

Don’t let hidden energy waste drain your profits. An energy evaluation is the foundational step toward smarter energy management, leading to substantial savings, improved operations, and a stronger commitment to sustainability.

Ready to unlock the full potential of your facility? Contact us today to learn how an energy evaluation can benefit your business.

The post The Power of Knowing: Why Energy Evaluations Are Essential for Your Business appeared first on Controlled Air, Inc..

In today’s world, sustainability is no longer just an option; it’s a necessity. Controlled Air has long been a leader in delivering full-service energy solutions to clients across the New England area, bringing expertise in designing and engineering advanced energy systems – including gas heat pumps (GHPs), co-generation combined heat and power (CHP), microgrids, and energy management systems.  

Since joining Yanmar Energy Systems in 2022, Controlled Air has been able to expand its operations and accelerate its mission, furthering its founder’s vision of creating smarter, more efficient energy solutions. Now, as an integral part of Yanmar, the company continues to push the boundaries of energy innovation, helping businesses across North America reduce emissions and optimize energy use. 

Vincent Chiocchio, President of Controlled Air and Yanmar Energy Systems North America, underscores their mission: “Building sustainability is the way of the future. We design, engineer, and install systems tailored to each building, ensuring long-term performance. And beyond installation, we continue to maintain them for the life of the building.” 

Energy Efficiency at Elm City Bioscience Center 

One of Controlled Air’s standout projects is the transformation of 55 Church Street in New Haven, Connecticut, home to the Elm City Bioscience Center. This office building has been reimagined as an energy-efficient space tailored for life science companies. 

Darlene Reilly, Director of Real Estate at The Hurley Group, explains, “Our goal was to create an asset in downtown New Haven that supports the growth of the life science community. Controlled Air has worked with us to maintain systems for our existing office tenants while also designing and building solutions to accommodate new life science tenants.” 

By integrating state-of-the-art heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) solutions, Controlled Air improved energy efficiency and reduced the building’s operational costs and carbon footprint. “The more energy-efficient our buildings are, the lower our operating costs – and the greater the reduction in carbon emissions, helping to create a better planet for everyone,” Reilly adds. 

HVAC and Energy Management with Advanced Technologies  

One of the key innovations implemented at the facility is the use of Yanmar’s GHPs. These systems operate on natural gas, significantly reducing electrical demand while maintaining high efficiency. Todd Arnold, Senior Project Manager at Controlled Air, explains, “By using these GHPs, we’re creating a more sustainable future for both our clients and the wider New Haven community.” 

Controlled Air also introduced Yanmar Hydrobox technology to design a chiller plant, which integrates seamlessly with the GHPs. The Yanmar Hydrobox delivers chilled or hot water using its powerful VRF heat exchanger, transferring the energy created by the Yanmar GHP to any hydronic or boiler system.  

“The Yanmar Hydrobox communicates seamlessly with the GHP outside. All three Hydroboxes in the system work together, operating at peak efficiency based on demand,” Arnold explains.   

Controlled Air’s integration of Yanmar’s GHP technology at 55 Church Street serves as a model for future energy-efficient building projects. 

“In this application, instead of relying on the building’s limited electrical supply to power air handlers for lab buildouts or office spaces, we’re able to utilize Yanmar GHP technology. By using natural gas as the primary energy source instead of electricity, we can reduce strain on the building’s power infrastructure while maintaining efficient climate control,” Arnold adds.   

Furthermore, Controlled Air’s energy management solutions incorporate advanced analytics, allowing facility managers to optimize their energy use based on real-time data. This predictive approach reduces costs while enhancing system reliability.   

Smart, Efficient, and Quiet Chiller Systems 

Another major component of the renovation at this site involved upgrading the building’s aging chiller system. Controlled Air replaced outdated 1970s chillers with modern chiller packages featuring turbo-core compressors.  

Unlike traditional oil-based systems, these advanced compressors use magnetic bearings, improving efficiency, durability, and significantly reducing noise levels – an essential factor in a busy urban environment. 

Arnold explains: “What’s great about these chillers is their turbo core compressors, which use magnetic bearings. This design enhances efficiency and extends the lifespan compared to a standard scroll compressor.” 

These upgraded chillers integrate seamlessly with the building’s infrastructure, minimizing disruptions during installation. Predictive maintenance and remote monitoring ensure operational reliability, reducing the risk of unexpected downtime. 

Broadening the Reach of Energy Efficiency  

The success of the Elm City Bioscience Center project serves as a model for other commercial buildings looking to enhance energy efficiency. Controlled Air’s scalable solutions can be tailored to various industries, including healthcare, education, and manufacturing. 

Arnold states, “We’ve always looked for new technologies and solutions to tackle our clients’ everyday challenges. Innovation is part of what we do – we’re constantly exploring new approaches to help clients overcome obstacles, whether in building operations or system design.” 

As more organizations look for ways to reduce carbon emissions and lower operational costs, Controlled Air remains a trusted partner in delivering innovative energy solutions. Their work is contributing to a larger movement towards environmentally responsible commercial properties nationwide. 

Commitment to a Sustainable Future 

The collaboration between Controlled Air and Yanmar Energy Systems demonstrates the potential of innovative energy solutions to transform commercial buildings. By adopting cutting-edge technologies, Controlled Air is setting new standards in commercial building sustainability. 

Vincent Chiocchio adds, “Imagine transforming buildings into models of efficiency and sustainability. Partnering with Yanmar has given us the ability to innovate and develop new technologies that can help reduce energy use in any commercial building or facility.” 

As the industry moves toward a more sustainable future, Controlled Air continues to lead by example, proving that with the right solutions, buildings can be models of energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. 

With a commitment to next-generation energy solutions, Controlled Air and Yanmar Energy Systems are driving real change in sustainable commercial development across North America. 

About Yanmar 

With beginnings in Osaka, Japan, in 1912, Yanmar was the first ever to succeed in making a compact diesel engine of a practical size in 1933. A pioneer in diesel engine technology, Yanmar is a global innovator in a wide range of industrial equipment, from small and large engines, agricultural machinery and facilities, construction equipment, energy systems, marine, to machine tools, and components — Yanmar’s global business operations span seven domains. On land, at sea, and in the city, Yanmar provides advanced solutions to the challenges customers face, towards realizing A Sustainable Future. For more details, please visit the official website of Yanmar Holdings Co., Ltd. 

The post Engineering Efficiency: How Controlled Air is Pioneering Sustainable Innovation appeared first on Controlled Air, Inc..

The post Future ready building solutions appeared first on Controlled Air, Inc..

Yanmar GHP is considered a mechanical cogeneration product and should be treated as “Combined Heat and Power system property” (CHP)  for purposes of Internal Revenue Code Section 48, under the Investment Tax Credit (ITC). 

Please consult with your tax professional for additional requirements, information and to verify your qualifications.

GHP is a great solution for upgrading HVAC systems in historical buildings with older electrical systems, minimal electrical load, or where there isn’t the opportunity to upgrade the electrical system for newer high-efficiency traditional HVAC systems. Gas systems require less electricity therefore sometimes making it the best option for converting older buildings. Additionally, they are perfect when only single-phase power is available or when electrical systems can’t be updated due to delays, cost, or availability.

In calculations, the Gas Heat pump systems saved 25-30% on cooling and 50% on heating as compared to an electric heat pump system.

Don’t hesitate to call or email for more information about GHP or a custom energy solution for your facility. We are always happy to do a walk-through of your facility and make suggestions on the more efficient way to upgrade your HVAC. Download Our GHP Flyer

The post Tax Credit Available on Yanmar Gas Heat Pumps Ends in 2024 appeared first on Controlled Air, Inc..

Webinar Series:

Chapter 1: The Basics (Wednesday June 17, 2 PM Eastern)

Chapter 2: Free Backup Generator (Wednesday June 24, 2 PM Eastern)

Chapter 3: Batteries vs Backup Generator (Wednesday July 1, 2 PM Eastern)

Chapter 4: Free Battery (Wednesday July 8, 2 PM Eastern)

Chapter 5: Is Rooftop solar a good idea? (Wednesday July 15, 2 PM Eastern)

Chapter 6: Electricity Bills Made Easy. (Wednesday July 22, 2 PM Eastern)

Chapter 7: Helping Solar and Wind Power Succeed. (Wednesday July 29, 2 PM Eastern)

Chapter 8: Painless Demand Response. (Wednesday August 5, 2 PM Eastern)

WEBINAR SERIES SCHEDULE:

Learn The Basics: How to be Green, Resilient and Save Money.

Wednesday June 17, 2 PM Eastern

This introductory session reviews the pieces required to reach your goals to be Green, Resilient, Save Money. Later sessions focus on how acquire the pieces and put them all together.

Free Backup Generator.

Wednesday June 24, 2 PM Eastern.

A backup generator is key piece required to protect your organization with resiliency. Unfortunately, most organizations can’t afford one. Learn how to get one for free.

Batteries vs Backup generator.

Wednesday July 1, 2 PM Eastern.

Batteries are all the rage. Prices have fallen significantly over the past few years, but is a battery the right solution for your resiliency and cost savings needs? Learn which solution makes sense for your organization.

Free Battery for your Business.

Wednesday July 8 2 PM Eastern.

Batteries are expensive, but in certain circumstances the economics are sufficiently compelling to allow Exergy to provide your organization a battery for free. Learn when and how to receive your battery backup system.

Is Rooftop Solar a Good Idea?

Wednesday July 15, 2 PM Eastern.

Most organizations start with rooftop solar. Unfortunately, due to the complexities of demand charges and net metering, rooftop solar often costs more money. There are better, and less expensive, ways to achieve your green goals. Learn more about the options available with Exergy Energy to adopt renewable energy for your organization.

Electricity Bills Made Easy.

Wednesday July 22, 2 PM Eastern.

Ever look at your electricity bill? What are all those charges??? Energy costs have declined for the past few years, but electricity bills continue to increase. Why??? For many, the non-energy costs can total more than half of your organization’s electricity bill. Learn what you are actually paying for, and how to manage it simply with Exergy Energy.

Helping Solar and Wind Power Succeed.

Wednesday July 29, 2 PM Eastern.

Solar and wind are intermittent resources that require other generation to stabilize the grid. Learn how backup generators, batteries, and rooftop solar play an important part in helping renewables succeed.

Painless Demand Response.

Wednesday August 5, 2 PM Eastern.

Reducing your energy demand during peak times sounds like a great idea. But is it worth the operational disruption and intrusion, especially as energy prices continuing to decline? There are better ways to help the grid with Exergy Energy that doesn’t require us shouldering the pain.

The post Go Green, Avoid Outages and Save Money appeared first on Controlled Air, Inc..

The Executive Energy Summit is prepared especially to assist in the understanding of energy as it applies to their company.

Seminar Topics Include:

1. Energy Compliance Laws for Building Owners and Ratepayers
2. Best Energy Conservation, Efficiency and Generation Methods
3. The Economics of Energy and How to capture all Available Money
4. Options for Financing Energy Measures
5. Understanding the Pricing of Electricity and Natural Gas Supply
6. Understanding your Energy Bill and the impact of Stabilizing Demand
7. The Corporate Communication Process to Best Manage Energy Costs

This program will educate you and assist you in the implementation of an energy plan.

Speakers Include:

1. Vincent Chiocchio, President of Controlled Air, Inc., discussing energy efficiency and energy generation.
2. Elena Cahill, JD, CEM, BEP, globelé Energy, discusses economics of energy, financing and more.
3. Alex Discepolo, CPA, covering the new tax changes as they relate to both energy conservation and generation.
4. Kristilee Lahaye, CEP (certified energy procurement specialist), covering electricity and natural gas markets.

Details:

September 20, 2018
Check-in begins at 8:30am
Program: 9:00-11:30am
Lunch & Networking: 11:30am-12:30pm

Located at the: Fairfield Museum & History Center, 370 Beach Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824 (map)

Register Today It’s FREE

Or contact Kendra Arnold with questions.

The post Fall Executive Energy Summit appeared first on Controlled Air, Inc..

In the following article we list some small and large changes that could potentially reduce the on-going cost of operating your building system.

Lighting

• When replacing old lighting equipment, evaluate new technologies that may need fewer fixtures and/or fewer lamps to produce the same amount of light.
• Where practical, replace fixtures with LED bulbs.
• Install occupancy sensors to automatically turn off and on lights.

Remember updating lighting isn’t only about saving funds through the changing out of light bulbs but rather reducing the amount of lighting fixtures required.  Newer LED’s produce more lumens, making it so less fixtures are necessitated to produce the same amount of light.

Heating and Cooling

Establish a preventative maintenance program for your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment and systems. The Building Efficiency Initiative found that effective maintenance can reduce HVAC energy costs by 5 to 40 percent depending on the system or equipment involved.

Let’s just consider this example: If your entire building cost $100,000 in electricity per year to run and HVAC is 50%, is $50,000.  A reduction of 5% would be a savings of $2,500 per year and a savings of 40% would be $20,000 per year. That amount will add up significantly over time.

Ensure that you regularly:

• Change or clean all air filters, preferably every month.
• Clean all heat exchanger surfaces, water and refrigerant coils, condensers and evaporators.
• Repair leaks in piping, air ducts, coils, fittings and at the unit(s).
• Replace defective equipment insulation, ducting and piping.

• When replacing air conditioning units of five tons or greater, purchase units with a high energy efficiency ratio (EER) of 10.5 or more to reduce operating costs for the life of the unit.
• Always make sure that you get a properly sized system based on your building load characteristics and specific occupancy needs. A unit either too small or too large will lead to increased energy usage.
• Install variable speed drives (VSDs) on large motor loads, to further reduce energy usage.
• Use outside air economizers for “free cooling” when outside air temperatures and conditions permit.
• In facilities with older chillers, consider replacing them with new, energy-efficient units that operate at or below .60 kilowatts per ton.
• Clear areas in front of vents from furniture, since blocked vents require up to 25% more energy.
• Make sure your facility manager repairs leaks in steam traps and compressed air systems.
• Insulate boilers with an insulating blanket.
• Change filters regularly to improve air quality and reduce energy usage.
• Consider establishing a maintenance contract with a vendor to get tune-ups before heating and cooling seasons to further decrease your chance of a breakdown and unnecessary air loss.

Temperature Controls

• In winter, set office thermostats between 65 and 68 during the day/business hours, and 60 to 65 degrees during unoccupied times. No lower than 65 degrees per CT Gen. Stat. Sec. 19a-109 –“When any building is used as an office or place of business, a temperature of less than 65 degrees Fahrenheit is deemed injurious to the health of the occupants”.
• In summer, set thermostats around 76 degrees during the business hours, and above 80 degrees during unoccupied hours.
• During summer months, adjusting your thermostat setting up one degree typically can save 2-3% on cooling costs.
• Consider installing locking devices on thermostats to maintain desired temperature settings.
• Install programmable thermostats that automatically adjust temperature settings based on the time and day of the week.
• Consider installing an Energy Management System. Your building system can be computerized to monitor and control, temperature; usage; and achieve better energy efficiency throughout your building. With an EMS you can automatically adjust and track heating, ventilation and lighting within a building envelope. Most energy management systems also provide the ability for reading of electricity, gas and water meters. Now, more than ever, cost-efficient energy management is a key to saving energy and lowering costs for every business.

Operations and Maintenance

• Take a walk through your facility, during the day and after hours. Make note of wasteful patterns and opportunities for saving energy.
• Controlled Air can also perform energy evaluations. We are experts in the use of Carrier’s (HAP) “Hourly Analysis Program”; a DOE tested and approved whole building energy simulation software. HAP is recognized by ASRHAE, the utility companies, the state and federal authorities as an accepted method for comparing energy saving measures.  We normally perform a building baseline analysis and reconcile the current energy usage with the HAP output. We then model the proposed energy saving measures and compare these results with the baseline data to establish the energy reduction.  This comparison and proposed energy savings can be used to get incentives from utilities, as well as tax rebates.

• Conduct regular maintenance on building equipment, which can produce big financial savings and have a positive impact on the environment.
• Regularly check building equipment to ensure it is performing efficiently all year long. Heating and cooling equipment should be checked monthly.

Whether you have a large or small facility taking the steps above can help reduce operating costs. With the cost of electricity and oil once again on the rise, every bit of savings is important.

If you would like to see more information about commercial energy usage you can visit the following website: https://www.eia.gov/consumption/commercial/reports/2012/energyusage/

The post Business Energy Saving Tips appeared first on Controlled Air, Inc..