Last Updated on Mar 23, 2020 by James W
Well, it looks like summer has arrived – with some aplomb. For many businesses, that means a sharp increase of money needed to spend on their air conditioning. Without keeping the workplace environment nice and cool, you can expect lower productivity levels. There could be medical implications for your employees, too.
Neither is an option, so most companies up and down the country just suck up the costs. However, with a little help, it is possible to save money on the considerable expense of running an air conditioning system for your business. Let’s take a look at some of the things you can start doing right away.
Close The Windows
It might seem counterintuitive, but closing your windows is going to help you maintain the right temperature in your office. If the heat is beating down outside and there is no discernible breeze, then all the cold air you pump around your office will just disappear through any open window. So, just as you would keep the heat in during the winter, keep the cool in during summer.
Close Vents
If you have open and shut vents, make sure they are closed when the temperature starts to sizzle. Again, it’s a simple case of keeping the cold air inside. Once that air starts leaking, people won’t feel the effect as much, and will either turn up the power or start opening windows again. All of which is money you are spending that you really don’t need to.
Regular Maintenance
It goes without saying that you should have your air con maintained regularly. Every three months or so should be enough. It will ensure that your system is working as it should be, and will save you money in the long-term. Air con units are, by their nature, susceptible to dust and dirt. As they move the air around them, a lot gets sucked back in and clings to the filters. That means the system has to work harder, using more energy and sending more of your profits.
Move Furniture
If any office furniture is blocking the paths of the airways, then it is time to have a move around. Although the person sitting with their back to the vent will probably disagree, this will work better for everyone in the office. Make sure that your system is pumping air to everyone, not straight to the back of a filing cabinet or fax machine.
Set Times Properly
The warmest part of the day is usually sometime between 11 am and 2 pm. However, this is also the time that many of your employees will be heading out for lunch, so there may be a drop in the temperature overall if there are fewer bodies around. Also, productivity is known to drop in the workplace in the later afternoon and combined with a severe heat, that can mean a very slow-working office. So, make sure that you are aware of the times when the temperature is at its peak, and program the air con to reflect that. Don’t leave it on at the same temperature all day long unless you have no choice – you will be wasting valuable energy and losing money.
Hope this has helped. Let us know if you have any air con tips at your office!
