Summers in New York City are HOT, but 2014 is set to be the hottest summer on record yet. To help prepare your building for the heatwave, AFGO has compiled a list of essential steps you should take to get your HVAC system ready for summer.
2014 to Be the Hottest Summer on Record – Can Your HVAC System Handle the Heat?
Install programmable thermostats. – A programmable thermostat is a smart investment for commercial property owners because it gives you control over the amount of cooling throughout the building—and, it can lower your energy bills by as much as 75 %. A programmable thermostat also allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day, such as cooler during working hours and less cool at night.
Is your air-conditioner running? – It should be. While it may be tempting to turn off your cooling system in order to save energy—it actually increases energy expenditures. Air-conditioners are only designed to cool a space by 20 degrees. So, if your building gets overheated, your air-conditioner has to work overtime in order cool it down. This results in higher utility bills.
Invest in curtains. – Curtains, blinds, and window draperies not only increase the aesthetic appeal of your building’s interior – they also help to keep your space cool.
Get All of Your Ducts in a Row –Did you know that if your ductwork is not properly insulated, up to 30 % of the energy used to cool your building can end up outside? Making sure all of your ducts are sealed and insulated now will save you money year-round.
Schedule a professional HVAC Inspection- The only way to ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently is to have a professional HVAC inspection. While you are at it, take advantage of AFGO’s flexible and affordable HVAC maintenance agreements, so you and your tenants don’t sweat it when the heatwave hits.