Air conditioning often accounts for over 40% of a commercial building’s energy usage during summer, especially during extreme heat events. But here’s the good news: by taking a few smart, proactive steps, your business can stay comfortable while significantly reducing energy consumption and costs.
Whether you manage an office complex in Las Vegas or a warehouse in Reno, here are actionable strategies to help your facility maintain HVAC efficiency and keep expenses in check—even when the mercury rises.
Schedule Preventive HVAC Maintenance Before Peak Heat Hits
A well-maintained cooling system runs more efficiently—and breaks down less frequently—during the most demanding times of year. Before the next heatwave hits, make sure your commercial HVAC system is ready.
Key maintenance tasks include:
- Cleaning condenser coils to improve heat transfer
- Checking refrigerant levels and inspecting for leaks
- Replacing clogged air filters to improve airflow
- Calibrating thermostats and checking sensors
- Inspecting ductwork for leaks or blockages
Even a minor issue—like a dirty coil or blocked vent—can cause your system to work overtime, wasting energy and money.
Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat or Energy Management System
Advanced building controls are no longer just for high-rise office towers. Today’s smart thermostats and energy management systems (EMS) are affordable, scalable, and perfect for small- and medium-sized businesses. They allow you to:
- Automatically adjust temperature settings based on occupancy
- Program efficient temperature schedules for off-hours
- Monitor system performance in real time
- Receive alerts for abnormal usage patterns or system issues
By optimizing cooling schedules and identifying inefficiencies early, businesses can reduce HVAC-related energy use by up to 20% annually.
Seal and Insulate to Keep Cool Air In
A surprisingly common issue in Nevada’s commercial buildings is poor insulation and air leaks. Even with the most advanced HVAC system, you’ll lose cooled air if your building envelope is compromised. Evaluate and upgrade:
- Insulation in walls, ceilings, and attics
- Weatherstripping around windows and doors
- Seals on loading dock doors and warehouse bays
- Sun-blocking window films or reflective shades
By improving thermal insulation and reducing infiltration of hot outdoor air, you’ll decrease the load on your cooling system—leading to lower energy bills and more consistent indoor comfort.
Shift High-Energy Operations to Off-Peak Hours
Utility rates in Nevada often spike during peak demand times, usually in the mid to late afternoon when everyone’s AC is working hardest. Businesses can manage energy costs more effectively by shifting certain operations to early morning or evening hours when possible. Consider adjusting schedules for:
- Equipment-intensive manufacturing processes
- Commercial laundry or dishwashing
- Lighting or display-intensive retail operations
- Charging electric fleet vehicles
Some utilities also offer demand response programs—incentives for reducing electricity use during peak periods. Participating in these can further cut costs while supporting grid stability.
Install High-Efficiency Rooftop HVAC Units
If your building’s rooftop unit is over 10 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. We can help you choose a model with a high SEER2 rating and energy-efficient certifications like ENERGY STAR®. Though the upfront investment may be significant, the long-term savings—in both energy and repair costs—can pay for themselves quickly, especially in Nevada’s intense climate.
Trusted plumbing & HVAC solutions from Charles Chester – Keeping your home running right. Give us a call to schedule your services today!
