September 21, 2017
Fall is a favorite season for many, with relief from high temperatures, beautifully changing landscapes, and everything pumpkin-flavored. While you enjoy the changes this season brings, be sure to keep in mind the changes you need to make to promote energy efficiency in your building as temperatures and environments change. Here are a few things to be aware of:
Preparing systems for colder temperatures
- Evaluate insulation as needed – now is the time to be proactive and locate any areas that need weather stripping or caulking instead of getting hit with high energy bills when colder winter temperatures arrive and scrambling to make fixes.
- Ensure thermostats are set at a comfortable temperature for all building occupants, but take into account when certain spaces are occupied.
- If your equipment is outdated, consider an energy audit to determine the best course of action for having it replaced or repaired while still seeing a return on your investment.
Seasonal landscaping changes
- If you're changing out summer plants, keep in mind that different plants have different water requirements. Try to group plants with similar requirements together on the same irrigation line.
- Adjust sprinkler times and durations – cooler temperatures and shorter days can lead to a reduction in water usage.
Accounting for less daylight
- Keep blinds open to take advantage of the sun's warmth and natural lighting during daylight hours.
- Clean all windows and skylights to allow more natural daylight into buildings.
Energy Management Software
- Consider subscribing to an Energy Management Software such as Skywalk to ensure that bases are covered.
- Skywalk monitors your building's performance, accounting for weather, occupancy, and more, and provides deeper insights into your utility use and costs.
- When something out of the ordinary is discovered, Skywalk Advisor sends building-specific recommendations for operational and equipment adjustments to correct the issue.
Welcome fall with an energy efficient building and keep your energy costs low. For more tips, contact us today.
Skywalk, SOL VISTA's proprietary SaaS platform, empowers commercial building owners and managers to improve the performance and profitability of their buildings.
