Retailers improve bottom line, reduce carbon footprint with HVAC technology

Many industries are facing challenges in the current economic climate, and the retail industry is no exception. In the midst of economic uncertainty, however, many businesses are investing in products and equipment that move them towards more environmentally friendly and energy efficient operations while saving them money. Green technologies can often reduce energy costs and is an opportunity that the retail industry can embrace.

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, about $40 billion is spent annually in the U.S. to air condition buildings—one-sixth of all electricity generated in a year. As concerns mount over the long-term availability of energy sources and climate change, companies can easily minimize their carbon footprint, or the amount of greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere, through a simple investment in an efficient HVAC system that is properly monitored and maintained.

Research shows that a preventive maintenance plan for a commercial HVAC system not only improves the performance of heating and cooling units, but also leads to a substantial bottom line cost savings. In fact, a recent study at Brigham Young University reinforced the benefits of a thorough preventive maintenance program for building HVAC systems. “An energy efficient running HVAC system reduces energy waste in a building system and will lower utility and replacement costs,” said Jeffrey Wells Collett of Brigham Young University.

Heating and cooling is the second largest energy consumer for a business, so savings in this area can have a big impact. The HVAC maintenance budget is small compared to the energy budget, and retailers can save up to 15 percent on their energy consumption through improved operations and maintenance practices. When HVAC systems go unmonitored, operational problems often go undetected if a unit is providing cool air. In cases where undetected problems exist, the HVAC unit works harder and longer to supply the same amount of cool air, thereby increasing energy costs. But when maintenance is combined with revolutionary HVAC diagnostic tools, like those we employ at Alpine Mechanical, one can reliably detect and diagnose problems, recommend solutions, and provide repair confirmation, as well as consistently improve repair costs and reduce energy costs.

No business can afford to operate inefficiently, especially in these tough economic times. Innovative HVAC maintenance solutions will help companies reduce costs, improve their bottom line and minimize their impact on the environment.