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Santa Monica is blessed with a comfortable coastal environment tempered by the moderating effect
the Pacific Ocean and cool ocean breezes that cool otherwise sweltering summer conditions. Nevertheless, air conditioning is an expectation of customers in many commercial establishments, and air conditioning systems of marginal usefulness have found their way into many buildings that might otherwise be adequately conditioned with operable (opening) windows and fan ventilation.
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In new construction or major renovations, owners
have an opportunity to consider better insulation,
windows, shading systems, and natural ventilation,
which can sometimes eliminate the need for air
conditioning. For more information on these
practices, consult the
Santa Monica Green Building
website. |
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The operating cost of air conditioning systems are a major portion of the commercial energy bill. Many of the systems in small commercial establishment utilize package rooftop systems
(shown in photo), notorious for their lower efficiencies and their propensity for worsening efficiency with age. Commercial business owners are encouraged to ensure efficiency:
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Use maintenance contracts that check for system conditions periodically.
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Maintain clean filters
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Ensure proper operation of energy-saving features such as the economizer mode, which makes best use of cooler air during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, and can be used to reduce the hours of costly compressor use.
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Contact
our staff and we can help you get started.
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This page was last modified on
08/06/2008
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