Have you said the phrase “the dog days of summer” yet this season? Set between July 3rd and August 11th, this famed saying is originally connected to the prominent appearance of the star Sirius (part of the Canis Major constellation) in the sky, when it rises and sets with the Sun during the hottest days of summer.
Beyond sweltering temperatures and heat waves, commercial facilities encounter various challenges that can impact their operations, costs, and overall productivity. From soaring energy bills to maintaining occupant comfort, businesses face various challenges during this intense block of summer weather.
In this blog, we’ll explore some ways in which the “dog days of summer” can leave their mark on commercial spaces and businesses, and discover a few practical solutions to navigate these “ruff” challenges.
“RUFF” CHALLENGE #1: INCREASED ENERGY COSTS
As temperatures rise, air conditioning demand also increases, leading to higher energy consumption. Cooling large spaces like warehouses can be particularly costly, putting a strain on the facility’s budget.
“RUFF” CHALLENGE #2: EQUIPMENT STRAIN
Cooling systems, such as HVAC units and refrigeration, have to work harder and longer during summer to maintain comfortable temperatures. This can result in wear and tear on equipment, potentially leading to breakdowns and costly repairs.
“RUFF” CHALLENGE #3:POOR INDOOR AIR QUALITY
With windows closed and air conditioning running, indoor air circulation can suffer, leading to reduced indoor air quality. This can cause discomfort, allergies, and other health-related issues for building occupants.
“RUFF” CHALLENGE #4: OCCUPANT COMFORT
Maintaining a comfortable environment for employees, customers, and visitors becomes crucial during the summer. If the indoor temperature is too hot or inconsistent, it can impact productivity and customer satisfaction.
“RUFF” CHALLENGE #5: PEAK DEMAND CHARGES
Some utility companies may charge higher rates during peak energy usage hours, often during the hottest parts of the day. Commercial facilities may face peak demand charges if they exceed a certain energy usage threshold during these times.
A PAWS-ITIVE SOLUTION: BECOME ENERGY EFFICIENT.
Addressing some of these challenges requires a proactive approach; becoming energy efficient.
The first step is to set up a free energy assessment for your facility to determine the problem areas in your lighting and HVAC systems, professional recommendations, and program incentives available to you.
If you have a small-to-mid-level sized commercial facility in New Jersey, one of the easiest pathways to upgrading your energy equipment would be to participate in your local utility’s Direct Install program. Designed to incentivize businesses and commercial facilities, this turn-key program offers attractive benefits for upgrading lighting and HVAC systems across the Garden State at up to 70% off upfront.
By partnering with Donnelly Energy, a trusted Direct Install contractor, and trade ally, you can experience significant savings on your energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and improve occupancy comfort.
Learn more about our energy efficiency solutions here: https://www.donnellyenergy.com/energy-efficiency/.
