Energy-Saving Tips for Businesses Using Air Conditioning & Heating

Commercial Air Conditioning Units

Reduce Costs & Improve Comfort with Smarter HVAC Use

Keeping your business premises comfortable all year round, whether heating in winter or cooling in summer, comes at a cost. With rising energy prices, commercial properties in Surrey and South London can’t afford to overlook the potential savings hidden in their HVAC systems.

Small changes can lead to significant reductions in energy consumption – helping your business cut costs, reduce carbon emissions, and meet ESG targets.

Below are some proven energy-saving tips for businesses using air conditioning and heating systems.

 

1. Schedule Regular Air Conditioning Servicing

An efficient HVAC system starts with regular maintenance. Dust buildup, blocked filters, and refrigerant leaks can all reduce performance and increase energy use.

Schedule air conditioning servicing twice a year – in spring and autumn – to maintain optimal performance.

A well-maintained system can consume 10–30% less energy than a neglected one.

 

2. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Air Conditioning Equipment

Older air conditioning systems often lack modern inverter technology or zoning features, meaning they work harder and less efficiently.

Consider replacing units that are over 10 years old with newer high-efficiency models.

New air conditioning systems offer precise temperature control, smart scheduling, and reduced running costs.

Many newer systems also provide heating and cooling in one, streamlining energy use year-round.

 

3. Optimise Thermostat Settings

It’s tempting to crank the temperature up or down, but even small adjustments can affect air conditioning energy consumption.

Keep heating at around 20–21°C to warm in winter.

Set air conditioning to 22–24°C to cool in summer.

Use programmable thermostats or smart controls to reduce use after hours.

Each 1°C adjustment can save up to 8% on heating or cooling costs annually.

 

4. Use Air Conditioning Zoning & Occupancy Controls

Not every part of your building needs to be the same temperature, all the time.

Use zoned systems to control different floors or areas independently.

Implement occupancy sensors to automatically adjust temperatures in unused spaces.

Smart zoning ensures energy is used only where and when it’s needed – not wasting energy in empty rooms.

 

5. Seal, Insulate & Prevent Heat Loss

A high-performing HVAC system can still be inefficient if your building lets heat escape, or warm air in.

✔ Seal gaps around windows and doors.
✔ Use blinds or reflective window film in summer.
✔ Ensure roof and wall insulation meets modern standards.

Energy is expensive – don’t let it leak away.

 

6. Train Staff & Encourage Good Air Conditioning Habits

Sometimes, simple behaviour changes can make a huge difference to your air conditioning running costs.

✔ Encourage staff to keep doors closed when heating or cooling is on.
✔ Avoid using portable electric heaters or fans alongside HVAC systems.
✔ Turn off HVAC zones in unused meeting rooms.

Involving employees in energy-saving efforts helps maintain efficiency across the board.

 

7. Monitor & Review Energy Usage

Modern HVAC systems can be connected to smart building management systems (BMS) for real-time tracking.

✔ Review your energy bills regularly.
✔ Spot unusual consumption patterns early.
✔ Set reduction goals and track progress over time.

Data-led decisions = long-term savings.

 

Reduce Air Conditioning Energy Bills & Environmental Impact with RC Cooling

At RC Cooling, we help businesses across Surrey and South London optimise their air conditioning systems for energy efficiency. Whether it’s regular air conditioning servicing, a system upgrade, or a smart controls retrofit, we provide commercial solutions that pay off over time.

Call today and one of our engineers will visit and provide suggestions for how you could reduce your air conditioning running costs.

Call us on 07747 601346 or email us at sales@rc-commercial.co.uk.

 

RC Cooling – Trusted Commercial Air Conditioning Engineers in Surrey & South London.