Cost Saving Solutions & Commercial Buildings

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Quick fixes

Many large office buildings can benefit from quick low-cost/no-cost energy-saving solutions, such as turning things off, turning things down, and keeping up with cleaning and maintenance.

Turning things off

Turning things off seems simple, but remember that for every 1,000 kWh that you save by turning things off, you save $100 on your utility bill (assuming average electricity costs of 10 cents per kWh).

Computers and Monitors

Computers and other electronic equipment are ubiquitous in large office buildings and can contribute up to 20% of overall energy consumption. You can gain significant energy savings by verifying that computer power-management settings are enabled on individual computers and monitors, forcing them to enter sleep mode after a specified period of inactivity. Effective power management settings can cut a computer’s electricity use roughly in half, saving up to $75 annually per computer. Although most computers are now shipped with some sort of power management settings enabled, they may be disabled or made less effective by users or internal IT, and can often be made more rigorous to maximize energy savings. For more information, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers detailed instructions on Energy Star’s The Business Case for Power Management page. Some users may be concerned that automatic software updates will be inhibited if power management settings are enabled, but that’s not the case; updates can automatically begin to download when the computer awakens from sleep mode.

Other office equipment and plug loads

Like computers, devices such as printers, fax machines, and coffeemakers often have energy-reduction settings that can yield substantial energy savings. Additionally, consider supplying employees with smart power strips with occupancy sensors, which are an easy way to shut off their often-forgotten energy users such as personal printers, monitors, desk lamps, radios, clocks.

Lights

Lights should be turned off when not in use, but many people forget to take this step. When properly installed, occupancy sensors and timers can do this for you. A no-cost option is to simply train staff to turn off lights as part of their closing procedures (you can also help by posting a notice that identifies the locations of light switches).

Space heaters

Space heaters are energy hogs, drawing 1 kilowatt (kW) or more of power. As a first step, plug heaters into power strips controlled by occupancy sensors (other loads such as task lights and monitors can also be plugged into the power strips). Also recognize that the perceived need for individual space heating usually indicates poor HVAC system control.

Chilled-water drinking fountains and water coolers

Water fountains generally don’t need to provide ice-cold water 24 hours a day unless it’s required for health reasons. In most cases, you can turn off the cooling systems in drinking fountains. Likewise, water coolers generally don’t need to need to be turned on 24 hours a day. The average office water cooler consumes about 800 kWh per year. Because much of this energy is from standby losses, a simple method of cutting energy waste is to attach a timer. Programming an office water cooler to only operate for 10 hours a day, 5 days a week, can significantly reduce its energy waste. In addition, when it’s time to replace old coolers, choosing an Energy Star–qualified model can yield large savings over standard models because they have thicker insulation, more efficient cooling systems, and other efficiency-boosting features.

Vending machines

Refrigerated vending machines typically operate 24/7, using 2,500 to 4,400 kWh per year and adding to cooling loads in the spaces they occupy. Timers or occupancy sensors can yield significant savings because they allow the machines to turn on only when a customer is present or when the compressor must run to maintain the product at the desired temperature.

Turning things down

Some equipment cannot be turned off entirely but can be turned down to save energy.

HVAC temperature setbacks

During closed hours, turn temperature settings down in warming seasons and up in cooling seasons. Programmable thermostats make temperature setbacks a reliable option.

Peripheral and back rooms

Make sure that HVAC settings in stockrooms, rarely used offices, and other peripheral rooms are at minimum settings.

Window shades and blinds

During warm weather, blinds can block direct sunlight and reduce cooling needs; in the winter, opening the blinds on south-facing windows will let in sunlight to help heat the space.

Building automation systems tuning

For office buildings that already have a building automation system (BAS), make sure that temperature setbacks are coordinated with building occupancy on a quarterly basis. Facility engineers can align the HVAC schedules in the BAS with expected occupancy to optimize energy usage. Identify buildings that are not used at night, on weekends, or for long periods of time (such as during holiday breaks), and adjust temperature settings in those locations. Also, check that HVAC systems are not set to overcool or overheat the building. For facilities with regular occupancy schedules but without a BAS, programmable thermostats can make temperature setbacks a reliable option. The benefits of installing a BAS in a facility without one are further discussed in Longer-Term Solutions.

 

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Excerpt from Orlando Utility Commission (01.16.2018)

9 Common Electrical Problems That Can Disrupt Your Business

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Customers have a hard time giving your business their money if the power is out in your store. Electrical problems can cut into your bottom line and can cause revenue loss. This article provides talks about 9 common electrical problems that can disrupt your business.

There are better ways to cut your electric bills than to work by candlelight. Power outages and electrical issues affect your ability to conduct business as usual. These problems can damage essential software applications and data storage systems that your business relies on to function.

9 Electrical Problems That Disrupt Business

Electrical Surge

One of the most commonly understood electrical problems is an electrical surge (or power surge). An electrical surge is most often caused by a lightning strike during a thunderstorm, however, it can also be caused by an old or low-quality conduit that may have been used when the building was constructed. The damage from power surges can easily be prevented by installing a quality surge protector.

Prong Outlets

Most of us have at some point encountered 2 prong outlet and 3 prong power cord dilemma.

This often results in the 3 prong cord either being plugged into an adapter or having the grounding pin removed just to “make it work”. This creates a safety hazard and could cause the device or equipment to be permanently damaged and can also cause an entire wall of devices to lose power

Power Dips

Another common electrical issue is a power dip (or brownout). A power dip commonly occurs when the amount of power being supplied does not meet the demand for power. This often occurs when there is a sudden and heavy power draw. It is obvious this occurs as often the lighting may grow dim for a moment. This can cause computers to shut off as they do not have enough power.

Exposed Junction Box

A junction box is a common electrical term that is essentially a box where multiple wires meet and connect. At times these may accidentally be left exposed after maintenance has been performed. This causes a safety hazard and is also a violation of the code.

Broken Switches and Outlets

A broken light switch is often the start of a horror film or ominous scene in a movie. But in real life, a broken light switch is often a sign of either bad electrical work, loose wiring, or both. If you have a light switch that seems to work intermittently contact your local electrician to get it replaced and prevent

Loose Outlets

Loose outlets are problematic as they increase the chance of a fire occurring and they can also lead to employees being accidentally shocked. If you notice an outlet is loose or at risk of coming loose stop using it until it can be properly repaired or replaced by a licensed electrician.

Tripped Circuit Breaker

The most common electrical problem that of a tripped circuit breaker. Occasionally you may find that a few seconds after you power on a device the power to that device goes out. If this occurs find your circuit breaker and identify which breaker has been flipped and turn it back on. If this occurs again try disconnecting any devices that have a high power draw such as vacuums or printers.

Not Enough Electrical Outlets

When there are not enough electrical outlets people often turn to extension cords and power strips to connect their devices. While power strips and extensions cords are useful, they can lead to more problems if they are used in excess. Power dips can become more common and there is a greater chance of them accidentally becoming unplugged or of employees tripping over them.

Outdated Electrical Wiring

As stated above outdated electrical wiring can cause a multitude of problems. If the wiring is old enough rodents may have begun to eat away at the protective coating of the wire which can pose a potential fire hazard. Other problems can occur such as the inability of the wire to maintain a consistent power supply.

Final Thoughts

For more information and help with solving your electrical problems, Contact Electrical Service Professionals today!

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Signs Your Commercial Electrical System Needs Upgraded

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No matter how well your building’s electrical system was designed, there comes a time when an electrical upgrade is necessary. Upgrading your electrical system improves both the safety and utility of your building. If you find your electrical system no longer meets your needs, there are a few things to consider before contacting an electrician.

Signs You’re Due for an Electrical Upgrade

Many older buildings were designed when demand for electricity was lower. They were typically built with 60 or 120 amps and a few circuits for an entire commercial building. This was enough decades ago, but it isn’t enough to power the amount of electronics and machinery in use today. Nowadays, even small workshops require at least 200 amps.

One of the biggest signs you need an electrical upgrade is that there doesn’t seem to be enough power for everything. Your lights flicker or go out entirely when a large appliance or machine is turned on. Your equipment shuts itself off for no obvious reason. You have extension cords run between different circuits in attempt to balance the load.

You might also notice the breakers frequently trip when you try to run all the electrical equipment you need at once. You may find yourself carefully planning which equipment to use at what time in attempt to avoid tripping your breakers. Worse yet, your breakers fail and don’t trip when they should, allowing your equipment to overheat.

Safety issues are another indication your electrical system is in need of an upgrade. Check your electrical panel and wiring contacts for corrosion or other deterioration. Inspect your wiring for melted wires or melted wiring insulation. Damage like this means your building is at risk of an electrical fire. The need for surge protectors on nearly every outlet is another sign your safety could be at risk.

Even if you don’t have problems like these, consider an upgrade if you’re planning to renovate or bring in new equipment that will add to the load on your electrical system. This is especially true if you want to add air conditioning or electric heating.

Plan Ahead for Your Electrical Upgrade

Before you get in touch with an electrician, take some time to evaluate the electrical needs of your business. Make a list of the electrical appliances and equipment you currently use and any you’re planning to add, including lighting. If you’re existing lighting doesn’t allow you to work efficiently, consider upgrading to higher-voltage lighting or adding lights.

Note any areas where you’d like to have more electrical outlets, such as those where you’re currently relying on extension cords. Also consider whether you’ll be building any additions that will also need an electrical supply.

Your electrician will use this information as well as information gathered by inspecting your building to calculate your building’s total electrical load. If the only upgrade you need to your system is an additional circuit, your electrician may be able to accomplish this by adding a subpanel. This is only possible, however, when your main electrical panel already supplies enough power for the entire building and your wiring is in good condition.

Otherwise, the main electrical panel can be upgraded to provide 200 amps, 400 amps or even more if necessary.

Your electrician will need to open up sections of your walls to access your wiring, which means some noise and mess is unavoidable. Schedule your upgrade for a time when it won’t interfere with your ability to do business. While your electrician will do some basic cleanup, you’re responsible for patching and repainting your walls, so factor this into your budget.

October 30, 2020

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Reference Source: Sobieski Services – www.sobieskiinc.com 

Keeping Up to Date with Electrical Services

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Keeping Up to Date with Electrical Services

Source: ohsonline.com

What many businesses may not understand is that electrical safety training is required for all personnel, not just those performing electrical work.

Keeping up with maintenance requirements is critical for any industrial or commercial business. Electrical maintenance is one of the requirements that are essential for performance and safety. Businesses must also stay up-to-date with changes in electrical requirements.

 

Equipment Performance and Safety
Preventative maintenance is just that, service steps required to prevent failures. You can tell when you have a plumbing leak, but electricity cannot be seen. Often the only way to notice a problem is when a failure occurs. Repairs after the fact are more costly than simple prevention steps.

Repairing a wiring problem that is causing a motor to overheat is less expensive than replacing the motor and wiring, and the lost production time. Something as simple as a loose connection may create intermittent equipment failure. A technician could spend hours trying to find a mechanical fault when the true problem is not in the equipment, but the power to the equipment.

Electrical failures can halt commercial and industrial business operations. The time spent diagnosing and correcting the problem, or time spent waiting for new parts, is production time and money lost. Failures from overheating or short circuits can also lead to fire, which could completely shut your facility down. Full electrical service maintenance covers everything from the switchgear to outlets and control panels.

Employee Safety
In addition to production issues, employers are responsible for the safety of the company’s workers. Frayed wires or breaks in insulation are accidents waiting for an opportunity. The same wires that have loosened over time may cause electrocution or other injuries. A worker may see equipment that is not operating and assume that it is shut off. Machinery that starts again suddenly can entrap the employee.

Improper grounding or broken ground bonds are another hazard. The lack of a strong ground bond can cause problems ranging from intermittent equipment failures to the electrocution of a worker in a wet environment. Ground fault protection testing should be performed periodically. Without routine electrical service, you may not know the potential hazards exist.

Requirements and Changes in Requirements
Electrical service work is not a job for the unskilled. When it comes to commercial and industrial operations, the risks are greater due to higher voltage levels. In order to avoid violations, employers must comply with safety standards. In the U.S., this means compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements. The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) covers the United Kingdom. What many businesses may not understand is that electrical safety training is required for all personnel, not just those performing electrical work.

In addition to meeting established safety requirements, businesses must meet any local or national code regulations and keep up to date with changes in the regulations. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) released new rules in 2015. NFPA 70E-2015 requires all employers to assess the risk of arc flashes. Unfortunately, not knowing about regulations and changes does not excuse a business from being cited for violations.

Your business or property insurance must also be considered in the need for electrical maintenance. If property damage or injuries occur due to a lack of adequate service, you may not be covered. Normally any work must also be performed by a qualified electrician to avoid being held liable for accidents.

Finally, as a business operation grows, the electrical needs may increase. The number of outlets and circuits that were sufficient at the beginning may no longer support the equipment now in use. Without routine electrical maintenance, performed by skilled personnel, you may not be aware of the potential for overloads. Keeping up with electrical service requirements will help ensure your continued business operation.

Commercial Building Fall Maintenance: Top 8 Tips

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While each commercial building’s needs will be different according to the tenants it holds, its purpose, and its location, consider the following tips when preparing your property this season.

  • HVAC:

Before tenants start to crank up the heat to combat colder temps, make sure your building’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is running efficiently and effectively. Replace filters, inspect and repair broken parts, identify and respond to cracked duct work, drain line clogs, and make sure your HVAC system is the proper size for your unit. While doing so, store or cover air-conditioning units that will go unused during the fall and winter seasons.

 

  • Fire: 

Service your fire prevention and safety equipment, making sure all sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and fire alarms are in working order. Also, update emergency fire procedures and schedule a fall or winter season drill so tenants can practice how best to respond.

 

  • Outdoors:

Winterize your landscaping, including trimming trees and shrubs to reduce exterior damage. Ensure that vegetation and grass are properly graded to avoid water and ice sitting against your property’s foundation. This can lead to interior water damage. Also, inspect the exterior of your building for cracks, stains, and leaks, which could lead to potential for safety and security breaches. 

 

  • Lighting:

Decreased daylight means your tenants may be more at risk for falling should hazards not be easily identifiable. Install proper exterior lighting on your commercial property, and check bi-annually that light bulbs and fixtures are clean and in working order. If public walkways have cracks, potholes, or other trip hazards, repair and seal to reduce hazards, or install signage to make people aware.

 

  • Roof:

Inspect and repair your commercial property’s roof for loose shingles or damage to existing flashing. To prevent the potential for ice dams to form, clean gutters and make sure they are properly secured to the building. Fall is also a good season to increase the insulation in existing attics. Doing this can decrease heat costs while also further reduce ice dam formation. 

 

  • Windows:

Inspect windows both inside and outside to ensure they are properly sealed. Doing so can reduce energy bills while simultaneously preventing excess moisture and mold risks. Replace windows that are showing signs of aging to avoid potential interior or exterior building damage.

 

  • Plumbing:

Colder temperatures put pipes at higher risk for freezing and bursting. Leaving your commercial building at risk for ater damage. Avoid the wet mess by insulating and sealing cracks and openings around exposed pipes. Also, set internal thermostats (and instruct tenants to do the same) to keep interior temperatures at 55 degrees Fahrenheit. 

 

  • Tenants:

Check in with tenants regarding any maintenance requests or building concerns they may have. Living and/or working in your commercial property means they are on constant alert to their surroundings. If they see–or hear or smell–something, ask that they say something.