From "Built to Last" to "Built to Save": The New Era of Energy

“It is old; just get rid of it.” “We can just get a new one.” “Just replace it!”

Sounds like something said in many companies about their equipment. Many people believe it is their only option to improve performance and keep their energy costs down. Is it really improving their ROI?

Here’s the clear, real-world breakdown used in mechanical energy audits and why new isn’t necessarily better. Controls… Placing control upgrades on your older equipment will maximize not only the life of your equipment but also the energy efficiency inside your facility, which is now in demand and control. What controls can be placed? But why not upgrade? Isn’t that better and overall more cost-effective? Buildings with functioning but poorly optimized systems, such as schools, hospitals, and multi-tenants, are great examples.

“Controls unlock efficiency you’re already paying for. Equipment replaces what’s broken.”

Adding controls.

A few examples of control upgrades that can be utilized are setpoint & sequence optimization, occupancy-based control, and BAS upgrades. Their ROIs are strong due to shorter paybacks and minimal downtime; they will start to see immediate changes in their energy savings. These examples are typically better running ROIs.

Changing Equipment.

Let’s say new RTUs, boilers, or refrigeration were replaced with new models. They all come equipped with high-efficiency motors or compressors. Replacing the equipment does help with reliability, safety issues, end-of-life equipment, and if you were looking to switch fuels to use. The ROIs in this situation tend to take a bit longer due to the higher cost of making sure the equipment is up to code and completely compliant. This hasn’t even mentioned the number of years it will take to payback without using incentives.

Bottom Line.

New equipment with bad controls still performs badly. Old equipment with good controls can outperform new installations.