As buildings age, they often become less energy efficient, quietly driving up costs and wasting resources. These inefficiencies—sometimes referred to as “energy vampires”—can be found in areas where energy is lost without anyone noticing.
According to recent data, older buildings are significantly less energy efficient compared to newer ones. Older buildings are notorious for energy waste, with some estimates showing that buildings constructed before 1980 can consume up to 50% more energy than modern, more efficient structures. Furthermore, homes built before 1900 are much less likely to meet high energy performance standards, while nearly all homes built after 2012 do.
Where Energy Can Slip Away
These ‘energy vampires’ are usually small issues or outdated systems that have become so embedded in the building’s operations. What can it be?
- Outdated HVAC Systems: These old heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems run inefficiently, often overworking to maintain comfort levels and wasting energy in the process. Without advanced controls, they end up consuming more power while providing less comfort.
- Drafty Windows and Doors: Single-pane windows and poorly sealed doors allow conditioned air to escape and outside air to creep in, forcing heating and cooling systems to work harder than they need to.
- Inefficient Lighting: Old incandescent or fluorescent lighting fixtures guzzle electricity, especially in buildings where lights are left on for extended periods, compared to modern LED systems. These bulbs use more power and emit more heat, which adds to cooling loads in warmer months.
- Leaky Ductwork: In older buildings, air ducts often have cracks or poor insulation, leading to significant losses in heating and cooling as the conditioned air escapes before it even reaches the intended spaces.
- Aging Appliances: Old refrigerators, boilers, or other major appliances consume more energy than their modern, energy-efficient counterparts, unnecessarily driving up utility costs.
How to Identify Energy Inefficiencies
Identifying energy inefficiencies in older buildings can range from simple checks to more advanced diagnostics. By following a structured approach, building owners can prioritize areas for improvement, starting with quick fixes and moving toward more complex solutions.
Analyze Utility Bills
Start with the easiest method–reviewing the building’s utility bills. Compare your energy usage month over month or year over year. Any sudden increases or consistently high costs could indicate drawbacks in your building’s systems. This is a simple yet effective way to identify areas that need further investigation without needing special equipment.
Inspect Windows, Doors, and Insulation
Conduct a quick inspection of your building’s windows, doors, walls. Look for drafts or temperature inconsistencies, as these can signal poor insulation or gaps where conditioned air is escaping. Simple tests, such as feeling for drafts or holding a lit candle near windows and doors, can help you locate problem areas.
Monitor Energy Use with Smart Systems
If you have access to smart meters or energy monitoring tools, use them to track energy consumption in real-time. These systems can break down where energy is being used most and help you identify inefficient systems. It’s a more tech-driven approach but still relatively easy to implement if the tools are available.
We see great examples of inefficiencies being identified through our real-time monitoring system, BEE Sense, every day. Smart systems like ours can immediately send alerts when issues occur.
Conduct an Energy Audit
For a more thorough analysis, consider hiring a professional to conduct an energy audit. Auditors use advanced tools, like infrared cameras and blower door tests, to assess the building’s performance. They can identify less obvious issues, such as heat loss through walls or underperforming HVAC systems and provide a detailed plan for improvements.
Caught It! So, What’s Next?
Found any hidden inefficiencies in your building performance? Retrofit is your solution! By upgrading outdated systems, improving insulation, or sealing air leaks, you can significantly enhance energy efficiency. Target the areas where the most savings can be made and work your way through the improvements. Not only will this reduce your building’s operating costs, but it will also contribute to a more sustainable future—creating a space that’s both cost-effective and environmentally responsible.
