4 minute read
HVAC
COMMON MYTHS AND MISCONCEPTIONS OF HVAC
Bruce Jackson, HVAC operations director at JLA, discusses the common myths and misconceptions when it comes to HVAC, and how these systems can be used in a more energy efficient way to save on overall business cost at a time when organisations are looking to reduce energy bills.
Heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are crucial components in the maintenance of good air quality, temperature regulation, and energy efficiency in industrial, commercial, and residential buildings. Just like any investment, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding the use and maintenance of such equipment. More often than not,
HVAC is thought of as expensive to run or energy inefficient. However, this doesn’t have to be the case when systems are used correctly. In fact, there are several ways your business can mitigate energy bills when it comes to HVAC – important to consider with energy prices soaring. With bills expected to rise exponentially, a continuation of the rising costs we’ve already seen throughout the year, choosing the right HVAC system is more vital than ever, as well as knowing how to maintain it well to reduce the risk of unexpected repair costs.
MYTH: AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS ARE EXPENSIVE
Despite the initial HVAC system and installation being the most expensive part of the process, it is possible to recoup this investment by reducing energy usage once the system is in use.
Installing a HVAC system allows for huge savings on energy bills and whilst regular maintenance does need to be carried out on HVAC systems to ensure they are running optimally; this maintenance doesn’t have to come at a great cost. Conducting regular checks ensures the system can run smoothly and prevents possible breakdowns that might otherwise come with hefty repair fees. For example, clogged air filters can also be a problem for HVAC systems and disrupt operation or even cause the systems to break down. By conducting quick checks and changing the filter regularly, you can make sure the system runs properly and avoid expensive replacements or fixes later down the line.
So, investing in a HVAC system is not as costly as you might first assume, with regular maintenance in place.
DO AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS USE LOTS OF ENERGY?
A popular misconception around HVAC, especially air conditioning, is that the system heavily consumes energy. In fact, air conditioning systems can be extremely energy efficient if they are used in a way that allows for optimum output. Often the way to do this is to not run the system continuously, and only use it when needed. It saves energy in the long term by shutting off the system when it’s not in use.
Digital technology, such as online apps that monitors energy efficiency can also be used to make sure systems are giving optimum output and running efficiently, which can help to save on bills. The technology monitors the HVAC system virtually, displaying energy efficiency and identifying any issues, which can allow for quick repairs and fixes before problems worsen.
AIR CONDITIONING CAN ONLY BE USED IN THE SUMMER TO PROVIDE COOL AIR.
Air conditioning can actually be used all year round, as units can heat rooms as well as cool them.
Air conditioning units come fitted with a heat pump, effective at generating heat across multiple rooms just as a boiler would. By investing in a single cooling and heating system, businesses could again reduce energy costs and carbon outputs.
So, though investing in a HVAC system does involve an upfront cost commitment, it could actually reduce energy outputs and save on overall costs in the long run. With proper usage and maintenance, opting for such systems could prove to be a wise return on investment as organisations mitigate the costs of rising energy bills this year. https://jla.com/
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