How to Save Money Cooling Your Commercial Building
Summer is around the corner, so it’s time to think about your commercial AC unit. In 2021, Portland experienced record high temperatures, and those rising temps could be coming our way again this year. If you want to chill off during our hotter days while still saving money on cooling costs, read on for top tips from our Portland HVAC installers.
How to Save Money Cooling Your Commercial Building in Portland
Commercial buildings can incur as much as $30,000 a year on utility costs and an inefficient system can increase your energy bills by as much as 40% a year. The cost to run an AC unit for a commercial building in Portland can vary depending on the AC’s energy efficiency, outdoor conditions, and size of the building.
With sweltering weather on the horizon, maintaining efficient cooling without driving up costs is crucial. Our NATE-Certified technicians share advice on staying cool without breaking the bank.
Replace Dirty Air Filters 
Keep your AC unit running smoothly and efficiently by changing your air filters. Clogged filters impede airflow, which means less cool air can be distributed throughout your building. Plus, dirty filters cause your HVAC system to overwork, leading to unnecessary repairs and higher utility costs. In fact, according to Energy.gov, a clean filter can reduce wasted energy consumption by 5–15%, which can go a long way toward lowering energy costs.
Service Your Ducts
Leaking and damaged ducts could mean higher energy output and diminished cooling capabilities. You can significantly improve your indoor air climate and decrease cooling costs by adequately treating any tears, gaps, or faulty parts. Since ductwork is complex and typically located in the ceiling and walls, you’ll want to call an HVAC contractor to remedy any problems.
Check Your HVAC System Size
Even if your AC system is in tip-top shape, having the wrong sized unit can hinder cooling while increasing overall costs. Too small of a unit could cause your heating and cooling unit to overwork as it struggles to maintain your ideal indoor air climate. Too large of a system could be expending more energy than necessary.
Not sure if your commercial HVAC unit is correctly sized for your building? Call in the professionals for a complete assessment.
Invest in Programmable Thermostats 
A common question building owners have is, “Do programmable thermostats save money?” The answer is yes! Studies have shown that programmable and smart thermostats can save 10–15% on cooling costs. Scheduling your temperature settings allows you to have more control over energy output and save dollars while still maintaining a comfortable air climate.
You can program your AC unit to kick on during hours when your building is occupied and turn off when it is vacant. You can also monitor and configure cost-effective temperatures for your commercial space while disallowing others from changing the settings.
Upgrade Your HVAC System
We all know that HVAC systems don’t last forever. Over time components can wear out, leading to decreased performance. Also, older units might not be utilizing recent energy-saving technologies. If your air conditioning is 15 years old, it might be time to invest in a new Energy Star-rated unit. Not only will you reap the benefits of lower utility costs, but you’ll also experience optimal cooling.
Keep Up with Routine Maintenance
A well-kept HVAC machine is a high-performing system. One of the best things you can do to keep your building cool is to schedule regular servicing by an HVAC expert. During regular check-ups, your installer will look for potential problems, and repair or replace any damaged parts before it becomes an issue.
Schedule an Appointment at AAA Heating and Cooling
Don’t let summer catch you off guard. Schedule a consultation with one of our HVAC experts. For over 50 years, we’ve been serving the Portland metro area businesses. Contact us today for all your service and repair needs.