Cooling a Large Office Space? How to Control Energy Costs

Commercial heating & cooling is typically one of the largest expenses for any business. And according to the Department of Energy, many of these energy dollars are going to waste – more than 30%. Reducing wasted HVAC energy consumption is essential to controlling operating costs and safeguarding the environment, ensuring future sustainability.

8 Ways to Control Commercial HVAC Costs and Lower Your Carbon Footprint

1. Regularly change HVAC filters.
   This simple, inexpensive maintenance task can reduce wasted energy by 5-10%. Why? Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder to heat/cool your office. Air filters are best changed monthly, every 3-months at the least.
2. Don’t neglect annual maintenance.
   Preventive maintenance can reduce commercial HVAC repair costs by 40% and operating costs by 15%, ensuring your office heating and air conditioning system is not wasting energy due to low coolant levels, thermostat malfunction, dirty or aging components.
3. End office thermostat wars and control your budget with a programmable thermostat.
   Today’s latest smart thermostat options, such as the Nest, offer built-in locking, preventing warring employees from constantly adjusting thermostat settings and inflating your energy costs. They can also allow you to program temperature setting for when your office is not in use, saving your business hundreds annually and offering a rapid return-on-investment.
4. Make sure ductwork is properly sealed and insulated.
   Contact your commercial HVAC services company to have your ductwork inspected for leaks and inadequate insulation. Simply sealing ductwork can improve system efficiency by 20%. Adding insulation to ducts in attic/basement spaces further enhances savings.
5. Seal conditioned air in.
   Don’t heat and cool the office parking lot. Seal conditioned air in. Prevent air leakage, caulking around windows, adding weather stripping to doors, and using spray foam insulation surrounding plumbing, electric, and other fixtures, keeping heated and cooled air where you want it – inside the office.
6. Control sunlight infiltration. 
   Offices typically have lots of windows and doors. When these are left open in the summer months, it can increase the strain on your HVAC system and make office workers uncomfortable. Blinds and awnings can help keep windows cool, as can solar window films, which reduce the effects of the sun without impacting the view.
7. Upgrade decrepit systems.
   Replacing systems greater than 10-years old with newer, Energy Star-rated equipment can offer substantial savings. Your old system could be costing you hundreds more in energy dollars annually that could be better reinvested in a new system. This will not only lower your business’ carbon footprint but reduce your energy costs up to 20%.
8. Schedule an energy audit.
   An energy audit performed by your local utility company can help you uncover additional opportunities for savings – and may also qualify you for rebates and incentives based on any energy efficiency improvements you make!

HVAC taking a bite out of the office budget? Schedule a complimentary consultation from a qualified HVAC contractor  and get HVAC costs back under control with the help of H&H Commercial Services today.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/cooling-a-large-office-space-how-to-control-energy-costs/

Simple Ways to Improve Air Quality in Your Office

How healthy is the air in your office? Workers spend more than 40-hours a week in the office setting, exposed to the air within. Commercial HVAC contractors in Philadelphia understand how the indoor air quality in your building can affect employee health and performance. When indoor air quality is poor, it can impact your bottom line in many ways, from reduced efficiency to Sick Building Syndrome, and inflated insurance costs from the health effects of polluted indoor air. What can you do about it?

Simple Ways to Make Indoor Air Quality in the Office Better

• Ventilate
  Whenever possible, open office windows to allow fresh air inside. Commercial contractors know today’s tightly-sealed building envelopes often trap toxic particles within.
• Leave Air Vents Open & Unblocked
  Stagnant, stuffy spaces can create an environment that negatively impacts worker health. Open vents in all areas, addressing furnishings that obstruct airflow.
• Clean Regularly
  Invest in a good vacuum with a HEPA filter and use it regularly. Use microfiber dust cloths, which trap more dust, and are reusable and green. Clean all surfaces with natural, low or no VOC cleaners to eliminate illness-inducing viruses, bacteria, dust, pollen, and other pollutants that can make workers miserable and put a damper on productivity.
• Add a Door Mat
  A matting system will reduce dirt and allergens tracked into your office, trapping soil and particles. This small investment will help expensive flooring last longer and significantly reduce cleaning duties.
• Keep Your HVAC System Well-Maintained
  Regularly change air filters, considering HEPA filtration to keep the air circulating through your HVAC system free of dirt, allergens, and irritants. Clean ductwork regularly, as this can be a breeding ground for mold, dust and dust mites, and pest residues. These tasks also improve HVAC system efficiency and cut down on energy costs resulting from poor maintenance and airflow issues.
• Control Humidity
  Ask your commercial heating and air professional how to control humidity levels with your air conditioner and dehumidifier. Keeping humidity levels between 30-50% to reduce the proliferation of mold, mildew, dust mites, bacteria, and pests, which thrive in moist environments.

• Address Spills & Leaks ASAP
  Residual dampness supports mold, mildew, and bacteria growth. Left unaddressed, it can lead to proliferation, structural damage, and the need for expensive remediation.

• Get to Know Common Sources of Indoor Air Quality Issues 
  Familiarizing yourself with these common sources of indoor air quality issues, how they affect your business, and ways to mitigate them are key to ensuring a healthy environment for workers.
• Choose Furnishings & Cleaners Carefully 
  Think green and natural. Solid wood furnishings outgas far less toxic substances than fiber and particle board alternatives. They also last longer. When choosing cleaning chemicals, opt for natural cleaners over VOC-laden, chemical options. Avoid synthetic fragrances, including air fresheners and candles that can negatively impact those with lung issues.

Ensure a work environment that is happy and healthy with the help of the best commercial HVAC company in NJ. Contact H&H Commercial Services today.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/simple-ways-to-improve-air-quality-in-your-office/

2nd Stage of Refrigerant Limitations: Consequences of R22 Refrigerant Phase-Out

January 1, 2020, R22 refrigerant becomes illegal in the U.S. The phase-out of this refrigerant, widely-used in consumer and commercial heating and cooling systems worldwide, is going to affect millions, creating a ripple effect in the industry. How will the consequences of the phase-out impact you?

Higher Service Prices on R22 Systems

After January 1, 2020, HVAC commercial contractors won’t be able to obtain a single ounce of R22 for your system.  Losing this widely used chemical is leaving a significant void. This has caused the price of refrigerant and the cost of servicing R22 systems to spike to new heights, with the cost of some services rising 50% over pre-ban estimates.

Counterfeit & Contaminated R22

There has also been a rise in counterfeit and contaminated R22 in the market. For those that fall victim to this scam, the consequences of losing funds pale in comparison the high risk of fire and explosion posed by the counterfeit/contaminated refrigerants. If you need R22 before the phase-out deadline, make doubly-sure you are purchasing it from an EPA-certified supplier.

Options for Businesses with R22 Systems

• Maintain Your Current System (Wait)
  Commercial HVAC contractors in NJ advise if your current system is in good shape, newer than 8-years old, and not leaking refrigerant, you can continue using it until it develops a leak. This will require regular service and attentive care. With each service appointment, you should discuss the timeline of imminent system replacement with your local commercial HVAC services provider. This approach isn’t feasible long-term. Eventually, leaks will develop and system components fail, requiring a system upgrade.
• Retrofit Your System (Put a Band Aid on It)
  As R22 supplies dwindled, options for retrofitting older systems to refrigerants such as R134A, R410A, R407C, and R407A arose as a potential solution. None of these refrigerants is a direct replacement for R22.  This means the process will not work in all cases, and in all cases, additional equipment will be necessary to make these refrigerants work in the system. This approach is timely and costly, often more so than a new system. Retrofits also void the manufacturer warranty, and if done incorrectly, can leave you with a downed system in the middle of temperature extremes. At this point, you will join the throngs of others waiting in line for a full system replacement.
• Replace Your System (Be Proactive)
  If your system is 8+ years old, upgrading to a new system that utilizes non-ozone depleting refrigerant is strongly recommended by your commercial HVAC service company. This solution offers many benefits, including:
  • No unexpected downtime and waiting for the replacement of your old R22 unit.
  • An EPA-compliant, environmentally-safe system.
  • More efficient system heating and cooling and lower energy bills.
  • Smaller system footprint and streamlined design.
  • Smart, mobile operation.

R22 phase-out concerns? H&H Commercial Services is here to help. Contact us to schedule R22 system maintenance or learn more about upgrading your system today.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/2nd-stage-of-refrigerant-limitations-consequences-of-r22-refrigerant-phase-out/

Beat the Heat without Busting Your Budget with these Commercial HVAC Summer Tips

Is your commercial heating and air conditioning system prepared to manage summer weather extremes? Beat the heat without busting your budget with these tips for commercial systems from the pros at H&H Commercial Services…

Start Things Off Right

Begin the season right with routine professional system maintenance. Being proactive can prevent the need for emergency commercial air conditioning repair service, helping you address issues before your system goes down in summer temperature extremes. This is especially essential for systems 10-years old or more, which are more prone to issues. Professional system service covers tasks that you cannot, including:

• Adjusting refrigerant levels detrimental to the performance and efficiency of your system.
• Verifying proper thermostat function to ensure efficient operation.
• Cleaning key components, such as your coils and compressor, which, when dirty, force your system to work harder, inflating energy costs.
• Inspect the condition of key components such as fan blades, motors, belts, and wiring, addressing issues before they result in an inoperable system.
• Clearing drainage issues that could result in mold and water damage if left unaddressed.

Keep Components Clean

Due to the demands of summer use, it is essential to keep these key commercial HVAC components clean with proper in-house maintenance:

• Air filters.
  Air filters should be changed monthly to ensure peak performance and operation during summer use.
• Exterior components.
  Remove any debris surrounding the exterior unit, including tall grass and weeds and leaf and trash buildup that can block proper airflow to your system.

Enhance Savings & Security with a Smart Programmable Thermostat

Tired of summer thermostat wars? Nix the issue and reduce energy bills with the addition of a smart programmable thermostat. Today’s top models require minimal programming and are conveniently operated by you or your management staff to ensure comfort and savings, allowing for the easy adjustment of temperatures when your building is occupied/unoccupied. A smart thermostat addition can save you $200 annually (or more) on your energy expenditures, quickly compensating for your investment when properly used. Talk to your local commercial HVAC service company about the best models for your HVAC system and business.

Don’t Ignore Leaks

These come in many forms:

• Ductwork leaks.
  Ensure ductwork is properly connected, sealed, and insulated, particularly if located in unconditioned attic or crawlspaces. Leaky ductwork can cause you to lose up to 30% of conditioned air, substantially inflating your energy costs.
• Building envelope leaks.
  Make sure windows and doors are properly sealed with weather stripping and caulk. Likewise, identify and seal leaks around plumbing and electrical fixtures with spray foam to keep cool air in.
• Heat transfer.
  Close windows and drapes, outfitting them with thermal blinds and curtains, to prevent daytime heat infiltration. This is especially important on south and west-facing windows.

Sweating summer air conditioning bills? Keep your cool with the help of the commercial HVAC services of H&H today.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/beat-the-heat-without-busting-your-budget-commercial-hvac-summer-tips/

How Much Does HVAC Effect Employee Performance?

It probably won’t come as a huge surprise that your commercial heating and cooling system plays a role in employee performance. What may shock you is how much it affects your staff. From physical comfort and its effect on employee satisfaction and turnover to productivity and avoidable stress, today we’ll dig a little deeper into the effects of your HVAC system on your work environment.

Physical Comfort

Thermal comfort plays an integral role in employee productivity. To ensure comfort and safety, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) recommends a thermostat temperature setting of 68-76-degrees Fahrenheit. This is a wide range, and will vary by season and personal employee tolerances. Managing temperatures in the work environment is tricky, and employee feedback should play a key role. Not accounting for employee preferences could lead to objections from workers and ultimately, thermostat wars. Summer and winter draw the most complaints due to temperature extremes. To avoid ‘rogue’ thermostat adjustments, limiting the ability to change HVAC settings with a smart programmable thermostat accessible only by key personnel is best.

Indoor Air Quality

Commercial air conditioning contractors know, HVAC systems with only basic air filter setups don’t do much to remove airborne irritants like dust, dust mites, and pollen from the air. For the over 60-million people suffering from allergic rhinitis, this can equate to a very bad workday. Itchy, watery eyes; a stuffy, runny, itchy nose; and frequent sneezing and coughing do not make for a productive day at the office, reducing employee performance and efficiency. This effect is amplified in working environments that already suffer from poor indoor air quality. Adding air purification components to your commercial HVAC system, including a HEPA filter capable of removing allergens and other contaminants, requires a minor investment, reaping big gains in productivity, especially in allergy season.

Overall Health

Mold, mildew, bacteria, and even pests are drawn to and rapidly reproduce in high humidity environments. These pollutants can trigger severe illness, especially in those with allergies, asthma, and upper respiratory conditions. Your commercial HVAC system should monitor humidity to protect the health of your employees, reducing unplanned sick leave and the need for medical attention that can effect benefit plan rates. If your work environment is frequently muggy or sticky, commercial humidity control may be in order.

Distractions

Noise in the workplace can be distracting for staff, making phone and meeting conversations difficult. It can also be especially distracting for clientele, who may not be used to the seemingly odd sounds of a loud commercial HVAC system. If your business is suffering from the effects of a disruptively noisy system, talk to your local commercial HVAC services company about the latest smart and zoned systems, and how automating your system can not only reduce noise levels at your workplace, but save your business on heating and cooling costs.

Increase productivity, safeguard the health of your staff, and lower your carbon footprint. Learn more about ways to improve commercial HVAC performance from H&H Commercial Services today.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/how-much-does-hvac-effect-employee-performance/

Are You Ignoring these Signs You Need Commercial HVAC Service?

Staying up to date on HVAC preventative maintenance needs is essential. Your business relies upon your commercial heating and air system to maintain patron comfort and employee productivity. Properly performing systems cost less to run and require less frequent replacement. To head off profit pilfering problems at the pass, keep an eye out for these signs your system may put your business in the red.

Comfort Complaints

If your customers or employees are constantly complaining about the climate of your business, you’d be wise to take heed. It could be a simple thermostat malfunction or more pressing issue effecting performance and heating and cooling costs, such as insufficient refrigerant in the system, blower, or ductwork issues.

Difficulty Maintaining Temperature

As components age, your system will have to work harder to perform basic functions, cycling more frequently or running longer (but less efficiently) in efforts to maintain temperature.

Uneven Temperatures

When one room or area is frequently warmer or cooler than corresponding areas, or is typically stuffy, your system may be suffering unseen blockages or leaks within the ducts.

Thermostat Malfunction

Commercial HVAC repair contractors commonly see thermostat malfunction overlooked or mistaken for other system issues. A crucial part of your HVAC system, if the thermostat breaks down independently of other system components, it cannot give your system the instructions it needs to perform properly.

Weird Noises 

While some minor noises at startup and shutdown are normal, loud, grating noises can negatively impact your business’ reputation Clunks, shrieks, squeals, rattles, grinding noises, and even gurgling, hissing, and humming can be an indication of trouble on the horizon.

Foul Smells

Metallic, oily, pungent smells are often a sign of system malfunction, requiring rapid commercial HVAC repair and service. These could be rectified easily with a simple air filter change, or be a sign of other more significant issues such as a coolant leak, ductwork leaks/blockages, pest infiltration, electrical issues, or fried HVAC components.

Uncomfortable Humidity Levels

While some moisture results from normal system operation, the rapid onset of uncomfortably high humidity levels indicates a problem.

High Utility Bills

A system that struggles to heat or cool air draws more electricity than one performing properly. If your business’ utility bills suddenly spike, this can indicate a heating an air conditioning system in need of service. HVAC systems are often the largest consumer of energy in a business, so ignoring this could cost you a pretty penny over the long run. Ancient system? If your system is 10-years old or more it could be time for a replacement.

Don’t stick your head in the sand when it comes to pressing commercial HVAC service issues. Avoid the cost and inconvenience of emergency service. Schedule preventative system maintenance with the best commercial HVAC company in New Jersey. Contact H&H Commercial Services today.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/are-you-ignoring-these-signs-you-need-commercial-hvac-service/

Which Dehumidification System Style is Best for My Pool Room?

Like your home or business requires HVAC to maintain occupant health and comfort, your pool room requires the assistance of an indoor pool dehumidifier to support the comfort, health, and safety of pool occupants. However, unlike the typical building, pool rooms are uniquely challenging containing a large quantity of water that continually evaporates, effecting moisture in the space.

Keeping Water in the Pool with the Right Dehumidifier

Commercial HVAC contractors in Philadelphia know, with the right dehumidifier, you can meet the special challenges of pool room environments, safeguarding indoor air quality and maintaining temperature and humidity level to provide a comfortable environment for swimmers.

Which Style Pool Room Dehumidifier Can Help You Best Meet these Needs?

Balancing comfort and indoor air quality goals with energy costs requires tradeoffs, making it essential to prioritize your pool room needs in advance.

• Heating & Ventilation System (H&V)
  This most basic style of dehumidification removes moisture simply by diluting it with outside air. Humidity control during the summer season is minimal, at +/-30%, with no cooling. During the winter season, the system must raise the temperature from outside air to 84-degrees F, an energy-intensive feat given typical winter temperatures around freezing.
• H&V with Heat Recovery
  An H&V with added heat recovery can significantly reduce the costs of dehumidifier operation for minimal additional cost, just 25-30% more than simple H&V systems. These passive systems recover the large portions of heat in exhausted air, using it to condition incoming air.
• H&V with Heat Recovery & Cooling Coil
  With heat recovery and the addition of a cooling coil, year-round pool room comfort can be maintained, albeit at a slightly higher operating cost. However, be mindful of coil size when selecting your unit. Typical coil sizes will rely on outdoor air dilution for humidity control, while larger size coils can serve as the primary method of moisture removal. Looked for chilled water over expansion coils for superior humidity control.
• Dehumidification with Mechanical Refrigeration & Hot Gas Reheat
  Similar to conventional heat pump-style commercial heating and air conditioning systems, this style of dehumidifier gathers heat from excess moisture in pool room air (rather than outdoor/geothermal sources). They are best for small-to-medium pool rooms, providing precise, all-season control. Like heat pump systems, they reduce operating costs and provide superior comfort, albeit at a higher initial investment due to additional installation complexity/components.
• Mechanical Dehumidification with Hot Gas Reheat & Pool Water Condenser
  The most efficient of all dehumidification systems, these systems can redirect heat from moisture in pool room air either back into the space or into heating the pool via the water condenser. Using all available energy sources including the pool water as an additional heat sink, these systems minimize fossil fuel use and operational costs.
• Alternative Tech

Hybrids of the above technology, such as Dectron dehumidifiers, can also be constructed based on owner preferences, operating requirements, and climate.

Drowning in pool room dehumidification technology questions? H&H Commercial Services has you covered. Contact our pool dehumidification experts for an in-depth consultation today.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/which-dehumidification-system-style-is-best-for-my-pool-room/