As commercial HVAC systems age, they become less efficient, requiring more energy and increasing operating costs. They also break down more often, causing costly unscheduled downtime, maintenance and repair. Commercial HVAC systems that go down in the winter or height of summer can quickly create an emergency situation, which costs building owners and managers even more.
For building tenants, a poorly functioning HVAC system can have a surprisingly large impact on productivity and can even lead to illness. An unhealthy working environment is a risk in itself but it also further reduces productivity.
3 Reasons to Upgrade to High-Efficiency Commercial HVAC Equipment
There are many benefits in upgrading to high-efficiency commercial HVAC equipment, but there are 3 main reasons building owners and managers should consider making this move soon.
1. Health Benefits
The EPA ranks indoor air quality as one of the top 5 environmental risks to public health. Bacteria, mold, pollen, viruses and other biological contaminations can grow unchecked in ventilation systems that aren’t adequately cleaned. As mentioned, this is bad for employees. Conversely, a clean working environment keeps employees at work more often and promotes higher productivity at work.
2. Quick Payback Period
According to the National Institute of Building Sciences, the typical payback period for a high-efficiency commercial HVAC system is about three to five years – far better than traditional HVAC systems – based on figures assuming conventional comfort levels between 70 – 76oF throughout the year.
3. Lifetime Savings
In a payback period of 3 to 5 years, building owners see a 30% reduction in annual energy costs with high-efficiency commercial HVAC equipment. If the payback period is extended to 7 years, the energy savings can reach 40% or more. With high-efficiency systems, the payback period is quick, and once that’s over, significant savings continue over the life of the system.
There are many benefits that come with upgrading to high-efficiency commercial HVAC equipment, but health benefits, a quick payback period and lifetime savings are among the most important to building owners and tenants.
It makes sound business sense for building owners to invest in high-efficiency equipment. With the technology constantly advancing, the sooner the investment is made, the sooner the savings are realized.
If you’re considering a new HVAC system in your building, Donnelly Mechanical a vertically-integrated contractor with 25+ years of experience with high-efficiency commercial HVAC equipment installations and maintenance.