Purchase "Energy Star" air conditioning and other appliances wherever possible Energy Star for Hospitality -- provides detailed information about energy saving appliances and monitoring systems.
Install window film to lower heating and cooling loads and reduce glare in guest rooms.
Change all HVAC and PTAC filters. This enhances the performance and efficiency of your equipment.
Clean all PTAC and HVAC coils. This enhances the performance and efficiency of your equipment.
Check all window and door seals: caulk and insulate where possible.
Educate your staff to turn off lights and turn down heating/air conditioning when rooms are unoccupied. Also, during summer months, to close the drapes.
Use proper insulation and reflective roof coverings.
Consult outside sources to evaluate the total system when replacing major mechanical equipment (such as chiller, water tower, etc). Often, this can lead to downsizing and other opportunities to reduce both the initial investment and operating costs.
Replace electric package terminal air conditioner (PTAC) units with more efficient heat pumps or other geothermal technologies.
Teach room attendants to conserve energy when cleaning guest rooms.
Turn off AC units in the unoccupied areas and set minimum heat in frigid/cold climates. In occupied rooms, set the thermostats to coordinate with the daily temperature. For example, if the outside daily temperature is going to be between 63 and 80, turn the unit off. If it is over 80, set to low cool with the temperature dial in the middle (78). Between 55 and 62, set to low warm with temperature dial in the middle (65).
Make sure to close all drapes in the summer time, and open them all in the wintertime. If closing them all the way is not an option, close them half to three-quarters.
Avoid placing televisions, computers, lamps and hair dryers near thermostats. The heat from these and other appliances or equipment may affect thermostat readings and lead to increased energy consumption for cooling.
Use setback thermostats and thermostat guards for all back of the house areas, public areas and meeting space.
