An often-overlooked opportunity for energy management exists in basic purchasing. The problem that some building managers may encounter is identifying and specifying high-efficiency models. In order to purchase a product that is energy efficient, it is necessary to define what level is efficient. At the most basic level, the federal government sets minimum efficiency standards for equipment before it can be sold in the United States. While purchasing equipment that simply meets the minimum national efficiency standards will increase efficiency and save dollars, choosing equipment with the highest efficiency can offer significant energy savings.
Efficiency is defined differently for each product type.
Certification of efficiency ratings ensures that the product meets at least the minimum efficiency level set by the federal government. Trade certification publications provide the efficiency ranges available for various product types. Efficiencies for a product vary with product type and model. And, motors under 7.5-HP have lower overall efficiencies than larger HP motors. When specifying energy-efficient equipment for purchase, available efficiency ranges must be taken into consideration.