Common pitfalls in specifying motors and VFDs Ten common issues that can affect functionality of motors and variable frequency drive (VFD) specification. John Yoon, PE, LEED AP, McGuire Engineers Inc., Chicago 01/21/2015 As specifying engineers, we have little control over the applicable efficiency standards and codes that we are mandated to follow. However, we… more »
“Why would I need a scheduled maintenance plan on my HVAC equipment?” We hear that statement all the time. My best response to that statement goes something like this: • HVAC preventive maintenance plans ensure your heating, cooling and ventilation equipment remains in good repair. By inspecting your systems regularly, our technicians will catch minor… more »
The function of the economizer is, as its name implies, to “economize” or save on cooling costs. Obviously, it costs money to operate the compressor. If the compressor can be shut down and the system still provide adequate cooling, energy savings can be realized. Heat internal to the building, such as people, lights, computers, copy… more »
Here are the key revisions to 2015 NFPA 70E from this month’s EC & M The 2015 edition of NFPA 70E reflects a major shift in how stakeholders evaluate electrical risk. In support of this, new definitions were added to Art. 100, including Hazard, Hazardous, Risk, and Risk Assessment. Throughout the document changes were made… more »
The purpose of testing, adjusting, and balancing (TAB) is to assure that an HVAC system is providing maximum occupant comfort at the lowest energy cost possible. Here is information from an article from The National Institute of Building Sciences: Most of today’s newest HVAC systems are being designed with many more individually controlled temperature zones… more »
Reprinted from http://green.dc.gov/service/energy-tips-commercial-buildings No-Cost Tips Adjust your thermostat. In the summer, set your thermostat to 78 degrees when the work place is occupied, and 85 degrees or off after business hours. In the winter, set your thermostat to 68 degrees when the work place is occupied, and 60-65 degrees or off after business hours. You… more »
Here is a great article on the things to address this spring to get your facility ready for the long, hot summer. Read the article
Send out an advance agenda. Do yourself and your attendees a huge favor — send out an agenda in advance. It doesn’t have to be fully detailed. It doesn’t even have to be the final version. But it will serve two purposes — it will tell them that you are organized and ready and it… more »
Facility and property managers look at emergency electrical service as a critical aspect of maintaining a building’s functionality. When there is a power issue, employees, tenants and residents do not have a lot of patience. Response is everything! Unfortunately, the lure of a perceived great labor rate can often circumvent great performance. Weather, outages and… more »
I was able to attend the Montana Rural Water Systems convention last week in Great Falls. During a discussion with a group of individuals, the subject was breached concerning rebates from NWE. I was surprised by the high percentage of both suppliers and commercial consumers that where un-aware of the dollars that are available from… more »