As the summer heat approaches, some experts predict that 2024 could be the hottest year in history due to the El Niño phenomenon. With this in mind, company executives need to consider how Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) can address the challenges brought on by high temperatures.
Here are 5 tips on how IFM can use to address the challenges of summer heat:
Maintaining HVAC Systems for Energy Savings
HVAC systems can consume high temperatures don’t just threaten people’s health; they can also cause damage to buildings, such as cracking and deterioration of walls, as well as electrical system failures due to increased demand for electricity. Additionally, high temperatures can lead to heat stroke symptoms such as dizziness and nausea among employees, which can impact work efficiency and company operations. During summer, the increased demand for electricity worsens the energy supply and demand conflict. By optimizing HVAC systems, we can save energy, reduce summer power shortages, and decrease long-term dependence on non-renewable energy sources, which helps to save energy and reduce emissions.
Regular HVAC system maintenance ensures safe, cost-effective operation and a comfortable office environment in hot weather. Aden recommends thorough inspections and preventive maintenance during summer to keep HVAC systems running efficiently.
Preventive Maintenance in Distribution Rooms
In summer, as temperatures rise and thunderstorms become more common, the safety of distribution rooms in the power system faces challenges. Overloading of power distribution equipment during periods of high electricity demand in summer can speed up line aging and lead to equipment overheating, which may cause serious safety accidents such as fires.
To ensure the stable and reliable operation of the power system, potential risks can be prevented and reduced through professional maintenance measures. Aden recommends two types of measures:
- Load control: Control the equipment load, reduce power load as needed, and regularly check the load of the equipment to ensure proper operation.
- Strengthen lightning protection: Enhance inspections of lightning rods and arresters, especially during the frequent lightning activity in summer.
Digitalized Facility Management
Remember, temporary fixes are not a long-term solution for IFM. Aden’s digital solutions can collect and analyze real-time equipment status to identify patterns and plan for preventive measures. This helps prevent financial losses and operational disruptions caused by sudden failures.
Roof Cooling
In the summer, it gets really hot outside and the roof absorbs a lot of heat from the sun. This makes the inside of the building 3-5 degrees Celsius or more hotter than outside. So, it’s really important to insulate and cool the roof to lower the indoor temperature in offices. By choosing the right insulation and implementing the best solution, we can make buildings more energy-efficient and help protect the environment.
Enhance environmental hygiene
In hot and humid weather, offices can attract pests and bacteria, which can lead to health problems and affect work. To handle this, companies should:
- Make sure there’s good air circulation to avoid humidity and stuffy heat
- Regularly check for and seal cracks and openings to keep pests out, and use insecticides when needed.
With 25 years of IFM experience, combined with digital technology, Aden provides comprehensive end-to-end and efficient solutions for enterprises to ensure stable development and enhance market competitiveness.