Minimize Heat Loss & Gain

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Affordability

Strategies for minimizing heat loss range from inexpensive (relay switch installation in a loading dock) to more involved measures, such as insulation or window upgrades. Using drapes and blinds strategically can control solar gain.

Cost savings

Minimizing heat loss and using the heat from the sun to your advantage can cut energy bills by 5% or more.

What you need to know

• Office areas in high-ceilinged buildings such as warehouses need their own ceilings, not just wall partitions. Otherwise, warm air rises to the high ceiling and causes the heater to run constantly. If your building's ceiling is higher than three metres, consider installing ceiling fans to force the warm air down to the occupied level.
• In loading areas, install a relay switch on your heating system so that the heat goes off when doors are opened. If loading areas are in heavy use, consider partitions and install local heaters for staff.
• Bare pipes and ducts running through unconditioned space should be insulated to curb heat loss/gain and deliver heating and cooling to the people, not the space.
• Try not to open windows to regulate the temperature in the work space unless the windows are specifically designed for that purpose. If your workplace is too hot, turn the heating down.
• If your budget allows, insulate your building or retrofit your equipment to greatly reduce heat loss.
• Draft-proof windows and doors with weatherstripping and caulking to prevent air leaks. These increase energy bills and can cause problems in terms of moisture.
• Control direct sun through windows depending on the season and local climate. Options include solar screens, solar films, awnings and vegetation that can minimize the amount of sun that comes through your windows.
• During heating season, unobstructed southern windows can contribute solar heat gain during the day.
• Read more Building Envelope tips.

FAQ

How do we control the effect of sunlight overheating our offices?
You can control direct sunlight coming in through windows by making use of solar screens, awnings and plants that can minimize the amount of sun heating up your work area, and by putting a light colour on your roof.

How can we keep heat in when our work area has very high ceilings?
To prevent warm air rising to the high ceiling of office areas in buildings such as warehouses, install ceilings for the office area if possible, not just wall partitions. If your building's ceiling is higher than three metres, consider installing ceiling fans to force the warm air down to the occupied level.