Smart Tips For Energy Efficiency - Air-conditioning
Air-conditioning may contribute up to nearly half of your total energy expense, particularly for retail business. Good management may help to reduce air-conditioning cost significantly.
Smart Choice of Equipment
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Energy Efficient Labelling Scheme (EELS) for room coolers
Room coolers registered under EELS with Grade 3 or better are guaranteed to possess the prescribed performance standard of high energy efficiency. A Grade 1 cooler is at least 15% more energy-efficient than an average (Grade 3) product.
Energy Efficient Practices
- Set appropriate temperature limits
The lower the cooling temperature setpoint, the more energy is required to cool down the air. You may lock the setpoint of the temperature control unit to avoid over or under setting by employees.
- Minimize internal heat gain
Provide a separate ambient air supply and extraction system for the equipment that contribute most of the internal heat gain or simply place the equipment outdoor. Moreover, you may switch off all unnecessary lights, cooking equipment and office equipment to reduce heat generation and thus reduce cooling energy needed. Attach 'Energy Saving' labels to switches to remind staff to switch off equipment when not in use.
- Minimize external heat gain
Minimizing "cool" air loss through leaks and openings (doors and windows) can help reducing cooling costs. It can be done by sealing cracks and openings, fixing doors and windows to ensure they are tightly closed or simply closing windows and doors when air-conditioning is on. There are also other cost-effective methods which include installing insulation, double-glazing, shading, reflective coating, blinds or curtains.
- Avoid direct sunlight to any staff
Design office seating plan properly so that no staff is under direct sunlight. This will avoid lowering of the temperature control of the air-conditioning devices.