As a building owner, now is the time to begin preparing for necessary heating adjustments and improvements for your residents. It’s not just about keeping them warm and comfortable; it’s also about meeting New York City’s Local Law 97 requirements, which set strict energy efficiency standards. With fall approaching, it is important to ensure your building’s heating systems are optimized. Here’s everything you need to know to stay ahead and ready your building for winter and Local Law 97.
Ensure HVAC System Efficiency
Your HVAC system is central to maintaining a comfortable indoor environment as temperatures drop. To ensure it performs optimally during the winter, it’s important to perform routine maintenance, including replacing or cleaning filters. This helps maintain both efficiency and air quality.
Over time, HVAC systems with ductwork can develop leaks at seams and connections and reduce efficiency. It’s estimated that forced-air systems can lose up to 20-30% of the air moving through the ductwork due to these leaks. It’s advisable to have a professional HVAC contractor inspect and seal ductwork behind walls or under floors ducts to prevent energy loss.
Maximize Energy Efficiency: Improve Insulation and Seal Drafts
Even the most efficient heating systems can’t overcome the inefficiencies of poor insulation. NYSERDA highlights that buildings in New York often suffer from energy inefficiencies due to air leaks and inadequate insulation, which can result in 25-40% of heating energy being wasted. This not only increases costs but also makes it challenging to maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Improving insulation and sealing drafts will reduce heat loss and make your heating system’s job easier. This will ensure your building remains warm and energy-efficient. In NYC, It is especially important due to high energy costs and strict compliance requirements under Local Law 97.
Preventive Maintenance Pays Off
Arrange for a professional inspection to fine-tune your system, check for leaks, and fix issues before becoming into major problems. During the inspection, ensure that all components, including boilers, radiators, and control systems, are functioning optimally. A thorough evaluation can identify inefficiencies. This includes outdated equipment or improperly calibrated systems, that may lead to unnecessary energy use.
Addressing these issues early reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns during peak demand and helps your building operate more efficiently. This is important for staying within the carbon emission limits set by Local Law 97. Efficient systems consume less energy and contribute to lowering your building’s carbon footprint.
Compliance and Comfort: Upgrade radiators with The Cozy
The Cozy is an award-winning smart radiator cover that is engineered to enhance the performance of your existing radiators. Cozys improve heat distribution and minimize energy waste by containing and directing heat more effectively. Resulting in your building heating up faster and more evenly, with energy savings of up to 25%. This not only aids in compliance with Local Law 97 but also significantly reduces your energy bills.
Taking these steps will improve your residents comfort and ensure you’re operating within the bounds of New York City’s energy efficiency laws.
Interested in how Cozy smart radiator covers can help you stay compliant with Local Law 97 and cut down on winter heating costs? Contact us for a free energy analysis.
Related Articles
How Exactly Does a Cozy Distribute Heat?
July 25, 2023The Cozy, technically known as a thermostatic radiator enclosure (TRE), is a proven way to save ener [...]
What is NYC doing to reduce its carbon footprint?
July 19, 2024The Climate Act drives New York City’s plan to reduce its carbon footprint. This legislation require [...]