Quantifying the energy benefits of HVAC maintenance training and preventive maintenance

Journal Article · Tue Jun 01 04:00:00 EDT 1999 · Energy Engineering

OSTI ID:350270

Abramson, B C ^[1]; Magee, M S ^[2]

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1. Servidyne Systems, Inc. (United States)
2. California Dept. of General Services, CA (United States)

This article summarizes a methodology developed to evaluate the energy savings impact of HVAC maintenance training for community colleges in California. The methodology was developed in a study conducted jointly by Servidyne Systems, Inc. and the California Energy Commission. The study involved: (1) a review of previous literature on attempts to quantify training and preventive maintenance impacts; (2) creation of a simplified calculation model for estimating energy savings that could be attributed to HVAC maintenance training; (3) application of the model to nine sample community colleges, using data taken from energy audits of the colleges; (4) calculations of the range of energy savings that could be anticipated through training at the nine colleges; and (5) field surveys to evaluate HVAC equipment conditions and document typical maintenance problems at community colleges that could be addressed by a training program. The investigation concluded that energy savings attributable to training can be roughly quantified using a relatively simple estimation model. Improved HVAC preventive maintenance resulting directly from technician training has a significant energy savings potential, ranging from 6% to 19% of a typical community college`s total energy bill. The results of this study support the premise that well-trained personnel and proper preventive maintenance can significantly improve a facility`s energy performance.

• OSTI ID: 350270
• Journal Information: Energy Engineering, Journal Name: Energy Engineering Journal Issue: 2 Vol. 96; ISSN EENGDO; ISSN 0199-8595
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES
ENERGY CONSERVATION
MAINTENANCE
PERSONNEL
SPACE HVAC SYSTEMS
TRAINING