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Not as simple as comfort cooling or heating. Conditioning a space allows the user flexibility to raise / lower the temperature when the space is unoccupied or turn the system off temporarily to offset operating costs.

The above approach cannot be used for coolers or freezers because the product temperature must be maintained constantly; changing temperature settings or shutting down the refrigeration systems to reduce operating costs are not options.

However, there are many options available to reduce operating costs of refrigeration equipment. New high efficiency equipment, variable speed drives for blower motors, air stratification fans, and energy management systems to monitor, log and send alerts. The above are high cost solutions which should be considered when it is time for replacement of equipment.

One option with no or very low cost and offers the biggest bang for the dollar, employee training to close the doors, Door Discipline. Typical refrigeration systems are designed to operate 14 to 20 hours per day. The largest controlled factor affecting the run time is warm air infiltration from door openings. High outdoor ambient another factor but can’t be controlled.

If you are trying to watch energy consumption and cost, we suggest giving this no or low cost practice a try. Though it may be difficult at first to add another responsibility to management and training may be required as well as constant reinforcement to break bad habits. Once established good door discipline can add up to substantial reduction in operating costs with minimum outlay of cash.

Please contact us with any questions or concerns you may have. Bergen Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, Inc. is here as your resource to help keep your operation running smooth!