It’s that time of year again. As colder weather approaches it’s important to think about energy efficiency measures that could ultimately strengthen your bottom line.
Energy efficiency can help save costs and help your facility become even more efficient! Here are some tips to ensure your warehouse and/or manufacturing facility has energy efficiency in mind.
Compressed air
- Conduct an air distribution leak analysis and fix leaks accordingly. Doing this in a compressed air system is projected to reduce annual energy consumption by 20%.
- Install a simple solenoid valve so that equipment can be turned off when it is no longer using compressed air.
- Keep the compressor and intercooling surfaces clean and foul-free by inspecting and periodically cleaning filters.
HVAC
- Regularly check for any potential leaks in the boiler and/or in the flue. These leaks can reduce the heat transferred to the steam and increase pumping requirements. Repairs can typically be addressed easily which can result in 2-5% energy savings for the boiler.
- Consider returning condensation to the boiler. Reusing hot condensate in boilers saves energy, reduces the need for treated boiler feed water, and reclaims water at up to 212 F of sensible heat.
Motors
- For equipment that runs at different speeds, consider installing Adjustable-Speed Drives or Variable-Speed Drives to better match speed to load requirements for motor operations, and therefore ensure that motor energy use is optimized to a given application. Energy savings realized may be as high as 60 percent.
- Keep motors and compressors properly lubricated and cleaned. Poor motor cooling can increase motor temperature and wind resistance, shortening motor life and increasing energy consumption.
- Consider implementing a motor management plan to ensure potential motor failures are handled quickly and cost-effectively.
Learn more great energy-efficiency tips on DTE’s website.