5 Practical Ways to Improve Energy Efficiency in HVAC and Mechanical Installations

In the construction industry, energy efficiency in HVAC systems is becoming increasingly crucial, both for environmental reasons and for long-term cost savings. While many designs aim to be cost-effective at installation, they often overlook ongoing energy consumption. At Arcmech, we see opportunities to enhance energy efficiency in both fully designed and design-and-construct projects, even within existing design parameters. Here’s how working closely with clients and adopting a few strategic modifications can make a big difference in energy performance for minor changes.

1. Collaborating with BMS Contractors for Smarter Control Systems

A Building Management System (BMS) is central to managing HVAC efficiency, particularly for larger commercial setups. Research shows that HVAC control systems, when optimised, can save up to 30% of energy costs. By working closely with BMS contractors, we can help tailor control strategies to operate units only when and where needed, ensuring a balance between comfort and efficiency. Additionally, implementing advanced features like predictive control (using historical and real-time data to adjust HVAC operations) can further enhance savings.

2. Implementing Lock-Out Controls for Temperature Management

Temperature settings can often be adjusted by users to extremes, resulting in unnecessary energy usage. Studies indicate that each degree of extra heating or cooling can increase energy use by about 8%. Inhibiting functions on controllers prevent settings from exceeding efficient thresholds, maintaining optimal comfort while keeping energy consumption in check. By limiting temperature ranges, we can achieve substantial savings without compromising user satisfaction.

3. Scheduling Systems to Prevent “Left-On” Scenarios

A significant energy drain comes from HVAC systems accidentally left on after hours. A simple, effective solution is setting time schedules to automatically turn off units during non-occupancy hours. A U.S. study found that occupancy-based scheduling can reduce energy consumption by up to 25%. By setting clear schedules, we can prevent these inadvertent energy leaks, particularly valuable in retail and office environments.

4. Installing Night Purge Timers on Ventilation Systems

Night purge timers allow ventilation or temperature control systems to run only during necessary hours, avoiding continuous operation throughout the day. For systems where ventilation is needed only periodically, a night purge can reduce HVAC runtime, allowing the space to cool or ventilate naturally when ambient conditions are favorable. Studies indicate that intermittent fan use can reduce HVAC-related energy use by as much as 20%.

5. Additional Strategies for Energy Efficiency within Existing Designs

Beyond these approaches, other straightforward energy-saving strategies can make a difference:

• Optimizing Fan Speed and Control: Variable speed drives (VSDs) on fans and pumps allow systems to adjust output to match the building’s real-time needs, avoiding constant full-power operation. This has been shown to reduce energy consumption by 15-40%.
• Using High-Efficiency Filters: Regular maintenance and the use of high-efficiency air filters reduce the load on HVAC systems, enhancing efficiency and extending equipment lifespan. Studies have shown that clean, high-efficiency filters can improve energy efficiency by up to 10%.
• Zoning for Different Areas: Zoning allows HVAC systems to serve areas independently, particularly beneficial in spaces with varying occupancy levels. This can reduce the energy load by only conditioning areas in use.

At Arcmech, we aim to provide value beyond installation costs by identifying ways to save energy long-term. Through small adjustments and close coordination with contractors and clients, we deliver systems that not only meet today’s requirements but are also prepared for a more energy-conscious future.