Deep Dive: Air-conditioning and Coolers for Summer Energy Management in Summer

By employing these strategies, businesses can effectively manage energy use related to air conditioning and coolers during the summer months, leading to significant energy savings and enhanced operational efficiency.

Effectively managing energy use for air conditioning and coolers during the summer is essential for businesses aiming to improve efficiency and reduce costs. By implementing strategies such as regular maintenance, optimal thermostat settings, and the use of energy-efficient models, businesses can significantly lower their energy consumption. Additionally, incorporating natural ventilation, zone cooling, and automated controls can further optimise cooling efforts. This guide outlines practical steps to enhance energy management for air conditioning and cooling systems, helping businesses achieve substantial energy savings and operational efficiency during the summer months.

  • 1. Regular Maintenance:

    Schedule regular maintenance for air conditioning and cooling systems to ensure they operate efficiently. Clean or replace filters, check refrigerant levels and inspect components for wear and tear.

  • 2. Optimal Thermostat Settings:

    Set thermostats to the highest comfortable temperature. Each degree higher can save significant energy. Programmable thermostats can automatically adjust temperatures based on occupancy schedules.

  • 3. Use of Energy-Efficient Models:

    Upgrade to energy-efficient air conditioners and coolers. Look for units with high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings, which indicate better energy performance.

  • 4. Implement Zone Cooling:

    Implement zone cooling to cool only the areas in use. Use separate controls for different areas to avoid cooling unoccupied spaces.

  • 5. Natural Ventilation:

    Take advantage of cooler mornings and evenings by using natural ventilation. Open windows and use fans to circulate the air before switching on air conditioning.

  • 6. Install Ceiling Fans:

    Ceiling fans can complement air conditioning by circulating cool air more effectively, allowing you to set the thermostat higher and save energy.

  • 7. Window Treatments:

    Use blinds, shades, or reflective window films to block out direct sunlight and reduce the cooling load on air conditioning systems.

  • 8. Insulate and Seal:

    Ensure that the building is well-insulated and that windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent cool air from escaping and warm air from entering.

  • 9. Automated Controls and Sensors:

    Install automated controls and occupancy sensors to adjust cooling based on real-time data. These systems can turn off or reduce cooling in unoccupied areas, optimising energy use.

  • 11. Dehumidifiers:

    In humid climates, using dehumidifiers can reduce the burden on air conditioning systems. Lower humidity levels can make higher temperatures feel more comfortable, reducing the need for excessive cooling.

  • 12. Shade and Landscaping:

    Plant trees or install shading devices around the building to reduce the heat gain from direct sunlight. Shaded areas can significantly lower the cooling load on air conditioning systems.

  • 13. Peak Load Management:

    Implement strategies to reduce cooling demand during peak energy usage periods. This can include pre-cooling spaces before peak hours and using thermal storage systems to shift cooling loads.

  • 14. Energy Management Software

    Utilise energy management software to monitor and analyse cooling system performance. This software can provide insights into usage patterns and identify opportunities for improvement.

    Check out Pilio’s free software trial here.

  • 15. Free Summer Energy Clinic:

    Get some free 1-2-1 energy support with one of our energy experts with a free 15-minute chat and ask an expert. We’re happy to talk energy. Book here.

Read 10 Tips to Get a Handle on Your Summer Energy Use

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