Adjust Controls

Affordability

Installing a programmable thermostat or controlling water-heating temperatures can be done easily and affordably. For larger buildings, an energy management system can be installed by a contractor and will pay for itself quickly.

Cost savings

An energy management system can save 5% to 30% in energy costs and have a payback of two to four years, depending on the hours of operation used, type of system and equipment controlled.

What you need to know

• When programmed and maintained properly, electronic programmable thermostats automatically adjust your building's temperature at night and on weekends. They are reliable and easy to install.
• For larger or more complex buildings, consider installing an energy management system (EMS) to control all facets of your building's operation and identify maintenance issues. An EMS is a centralized control system that takes over manually controlled functions. It can be a simple unit connected to one or two pieces of equipment or a complex building automation system that can control lights and equipment throughout your facility.
• An EMS can monitor total building loads and turn on or off appropriate equipment.
• An EMS can analyze outside and inside temperatures and regulate the HVAC system in your building.
• Ensure that your domestic hot water-heating equipment is capable of heating to at least 45°C (113°F) and not above 60°C (140°F). Shut down domestic hot water circulating pumps with a time switch during unoccupied hours.
• Water heating temperature controls can increase comfort in your building while reducing energy costs. The controls vary the temperature of supply water as a direct response to the outdoor temperature.
• Calibrate all thermostats and gauges, adjust controllers and dampers for tight closure and test all controllers for proper operation. Lock your thermostat or instruct employees not to tamper with the settings.
• Consider recommissioning your building’s energy systems. Over time, settings go out of alignment and peak efficiency is lost. Recommissioning (or retrocommissioning) finds inefficiencies and saves energy costs. It also helps extend the life of equipment by ensuring it is functioning smoothly.

FAQ

My employees like to change the temperature in the office. How can I control this?
Instruct your employees on the benefits of energy conservation to get their buy-in on your energy management strategy. Alternatively, consider locking your thermostat if possible to ensure it continuously uses the most energy efficient settings.