Archive for the ‘Services’ Category

Spring Maintenance: Boiler Teardowns

Thursday, May 8th, 2025

Spring cleaning season is here. For commercial properties, this may look different than raking the yard and emptying the cupboards, but it is equally as important. Taking stock of the condition of commercial equipment is key for ensuring everything is operating the way it should. This is the time of year when mechanical experts and boiler technicians come to life, springing into action to get commercial heating and process equipment in tip-top shape. 

Boiler teardowns typically occur in the spring, as a form of preventative maintenance that keeps the equipment operating at maximum efficiency. By planning ahead and tuning up your equipment, your commercial boilers and burners will be ready to go when you need it most.

WHAT IS A BOILER TEARDOWN?

During a teardown, a boiler technician will disassemble the equipment in order to fully inspect, clean, and conduct necessary service and repairs. While the equipment is decommissioned, technicians “punch” the tubing, cleaning out accumulated soot and debris, maximizing efficiency so your heat, water, and industrial processes are running smoothly. 

Commercial and industrial heating boilers see heavy demand throughout the winter in Minnesota, which can lead to wear and tear over time. Large-scale process boilers and domestic hot water equipment are often used year-round, making regular shutdowns and tune-ups even more important. A full boiler assessment can identify potential corrosion, damage, or other issues before they become too serious. 

GETTING AHEAD WITH PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE

Setting a schedule for boiler teardowns ensures that maintenance and system cleaning isn’t missed. Depending on the use of the equipment, whether it is used year-round or just in the winter, the boilers and burners should be cleaned regularly, once or even twice a year. Egan Company’s Service team can track your service history and help make sure you don’t miss necessary maintenance. 

Additionally, curtailment rules go into effect in the fall and winter in Minnesota, meaning commercial properties who run Dual Fuel burner systems need to be ready to switch their equipment over to alternative heating methods with short notice. This becomes difficult without proper maintenance and preparation. It all comes down to keeping your building systems working properly, while keeping your operating costs low.

READY, SET, HEAT

Getting ahead of maintenance now can make everything much easier when it’s time to fire up your commercial boilers. The Egan advantage means having a partner for your facility who thinks ahead and looks out for your building and equipment, whether you are running heating equipment, domestic hot water, or industrial process boilers. Our dedicated commercial boiler and burner experts focus on the details of what your equipment needs to perform when it matters most, so you can focus on running your business. Get in touch with our team to learn how we can help conduct boiler teardowns and preventative maintenance for your facility.  

From Blueprint to Skyline: The Expertise Behind Egan’s InterClad Team

Tuesday, April 15th, 2025

Glass, metal, and vision—every iconic project begins with a bold idea and the experts to bring it to life. We caught up with Ryan Woodruff, Vice President of InterClad, and Laura Casas, InterClad Operations Manager, to talk about all things curtainwall, glass, and metal panels—what Egan’s InterClad team does, what sets them apart, and what’s shaping the future of building exteriors.

What is InterClad?
As one of Egan Company’s groups, InterClad is often referenced as its own entity—because at one point, it was. Originally formed in 1998 to serve the growing glazing market, InterClad was briefly considered for a sale before Egan decided to keep it in-house. Today, it’s a fully integrated part of Egan’s multi-trade offering, specializing in exterior building envelope systems.

“InterClad is just another group within Egan, like our mechanical or electrical divisions,” Woodruff explained. “We focus on glass, aluminum framing, curtainwall, metal panels, and everything related to the exterior skin of a building.”

The scope of work for InterClad includes both stick and unitized curtainwall and storefront glazing, metal panel systems, custom fabrication including in house pre-glazing. To support those field and shop activities, InterClad utilizes 3D modeling, BIM coordination, in-house 2D shop drawings, and project management from design through installation. With a union workforce that includes glaziers, ironworkers, and sheet metal workers, Egan’s  InterClad team has steadily grown since its inception, now handling a diverse range of multi-million-dollar high rise, healthcare and multi-family projects, along with a broad array of additional industry sectors.

What Sets InterClad Apart?
Expertise and execution. “It comes down to our people and processes,” Woodruff said. “Our quality control and project management are some of the best in the industry. We’re customer-focused, adaptable, and willing to take whatever steps necessary to deliver.”

Beyond technical expertise, the InterClad team’s ability to leverage Egan’s multi-trade structure sets it apart. “If we run into a challenge, we have an entire company’s worth of resources to pull from—mechanical, electrical, technology,” Casas added. “That’s a huge advantage.”

Egan’s InterClad team has worked on some of the region’s most complex glazing projects, including Minnesota Vikings – U.S. Bank Stadium, Essentia Health – Vision Northland, and Boston Scientific – Maple Grove Campus. Each of these projects require intricate design, technical precision, and the ability to overcome unique challenges in installation and performance.

Despite our robust capabilities, many customers don’t realize Egan does glazing. “Even within the industry, there are people who don’t know the full scope of what we offer,” Woodruff said. “Our estimators have been here for years and are well-known among clients. They help customers with budgeting and design guidance before a project even takes shape.”

Precision, Quality, and Compliance in Building Exteriors
Delivering high-performance building envelopes starts with precision, material selection, and strict quality control. Egan’s fabrication process ensures accuracy at every stage, using a barcode and QR code system to track progress and conduct five quality checks before materials ever reach the field.

Choosing the right materials is equally critical. “System performance is always the priority—structural integrity, thermal efficiency, and air and water resistance all come into play,” Casas explained. “Reliability matters, too. We need to trust our vendors to deliver what they promise. Everything we do is highly spec-driven, so we’re always researching and sourcing the best materials for the job.”

Beyond quality and materials, ensuring code compliance is a key part of the process. “We do thermal modeling, structural calculations, and Design/Assist contracts to ensure compliance from the start,” Woodruff said. “By working closely with architects and general contractors, we can guide material selection and system design to meet performance goals without backpedaling later.”

Where You’ll Find Egan’s InterClad Work
Egan’s InterClad portfolio shapes the Twin Cities skyline, extends across Minnesota, and reaches cities nationwide. Their work spans corporate headquarters, stadiums, hospitals, multi-family housing, and government buildings, delivering high-performance exterior solutions that enhance both aesthetics and functionality.

While some industries, like data centers, require minimal glazing, curtainwall and panel systems are essential for most commercial and institutional buildings—providing natural light, energy efficiency, and structural integrity. From sleek glass facades on modern office towers to durable metal panels on large-scale healthcare facilities, Egan’s expertise plays a key role in shaping the built environment.

What’s Next for the Industry?
The future of curtainwall and glazing is all about bigger, clearer, and more advanced glass. “Larger panels, improved energy efficiency, and robotic and AI-driven installation techniques are trends we expect to see,” Casas said. “The demand for high-performance, sustainable building envelopes will only continue to grow.”

InterClad is at the forefront of these innovations, particularly in sustainability. “Vacuum-insulated glazing and solar glazing—where the glass itself generates power—are among the biggest advancements we’ll see in the next decade,” Woodruff shared.

With a strong foundation of expertise, resources, and forward-thinking solutions, Egan’s InterClad team continues to shape the future of building exteriors.



Maximizing Safety: The Power of Fire Alarm and Life Safety Systems

Friday, March 28th, 2025

From Detection to Protection: Fire Alarms & Life Safety Systems
When you hear “fire alarm,” what comes to mind? Probably a small, round smoke detector mounted on the ceiling that lets out an ear-piercing beep when it senses smoke. But according to Kurt Johnson, Egan Company Director of Sales, and Jeremiah Perkins, Egan Company Service Business Group Manager, fire alarm and life safety systems are much more than that.

“A lot of people don’t realize the full scope of what a fire alarm system can do,” said Johnson. “They think of a smoke alarm, but what we do is far beyond that. We design and install full fire systems—systems that are integrated into a building’s infrastructure to provide early detection, evacuation guidance, and even mass notification in emergencies.” These systems can automatically trigger sprinkler activation, shut down HVAC systems to prevent smoke spread, and send real-time alerts to building occupants and first responders. 

Life safety systems go even further, incorporating emergency lighting, voice evacuation technology, and lockdown capabilities for critical situations. Whether it’s a fire, severe weather, or a security threat, these integrated systems ensure that people receive clear, immediate instructions on how to stay safe. These systems aren’t just reactive—they’re proactive, helping to contain threats before they escalate and ensuring that people know exactly where to go in an emergency.

What Sets Egan Company Apart?
One of the biggest differentiators for Egan is its ability to provide a single-source solution—offering design, installation, and service all under one roof. “We handle everything,” said Perkins. “From the initial design to making sure it’s compliant, to maintaining the system long-term, we take care of it all. That means our customers don’t have to go back and forth between multiple vendors. One call to Egan, and we’ve got it covered.” Another key advantage? Egan’s flexibility. “We tailor-fit to what our customers need,” Johnson added. “Some businesses can’t afford downtime, so we work around their schedules. If that means working overnight or during off-hours, we do it. We’re not rigid with timeframes—we make it work.”

Egan’s fire alarm and life safety expertise extends across various industries, including healthcare, industrial manufacturing, hotels, senior living communities, public housing, and more. “We do apartment and condo buildings, and typically we’re working with property management companies, not individual owners,” Perkins explained. “We also have a lot of projects in hospitality, industrial spaces, and healthcare facilities, where fire and life safety are absolutely critical.”

Staying Ahead of Fire Codes and Compliance
Fire codes are constantly evolving, and businesses must stay compliant to avoid fines and ensure safety. Egan takes a proactive approach to keeping its customers informed.

“We actually have relationships with nearly all the city agencies in the five-county metro,” said Johnson. “That gives us insight into code updates before they even become an issue for our customers. We schedule regular check-ins with our clients—sometimes monthly, sometimes quarterly—to educate them on what’s changing and make sure they’re ahead of compliance issues.”

Another thing that sets Egan apart is its team of NICET-certified fire alarm technicians. “NICET certification isn’t just a quick class,” said Perkins. “It takes years to achieve. You need on-the-job experience, have to pass tough exams, and even complete project reviews. 

Trending: The Shift to Mass Notification & Voice Evacuation
A trend in fire alarm technology is the shift toward mass notification and voice evacuation systems. “Traditional fire alarms just make noise and flash lights,” Johnson explained. “But today, systems can integrate voice messaging, digital signage, and even text alerts. A fire alarm system isn’t just for fires anymore—it can be used for severe weather, security threats, and other emergencies.” Perkins agreed, adding, “mass notification systems are becoming the standard in high-occupancy buildings like schools, hospitals, and corporate campuses. It’s all about clear, immediate communication in an emergency.”

Fire Alarm Installation: Timing is Everything
One of the biggest mistakes in construction is waiting too long to plan fire alarm systems. “Fire alarm systems are often an afterthought,” said Perkins. “People assume they can just be added at the last minute, but that’s not how it works. These systems need to be planned from the start—ideally, right after the building is designed.” Johnson added, “If you wait too long, you run into all kinds of issues—having to retrofit wiring, delays in permitting, and even extra costs. The best time to get us involved is early in the design phase.”

A common misconception is that fire alarm installations are quick and easy. In reality, they require significant planning, engineering, and approvals. “People assume we can be out there installing within a week,” said Johnson. “But just engineering a system takes time. Then, we have to get permits, city approvals, and coordinate with other trades. It’s not as simple as sticking a smoke detector on the ceiling.” Perkins added, “And it’s not just about fire. A lot of people don’t realize how much fire alarm systems do beyond just detecting smoke. They can trigger lockdowns, integrate with security systems, and provide building-wide communication during an emergency.”

What If You’re Unsure About Your Current System?
If a business isn’t sure whether its fire alarm system is up to code or needs an upgrade, the best thing to do is get an assessment. “Just give us a call,” said Perkins. “Egan can come out, take a look at what you have, and guide you through your options. Whether it’s an upgrade, a code compliance check, or just routine maintenance, we can help.”

At the end of the day, fire alarm and life safety systems are about more than just compliance—they’re about protecting people, property, and businesses. And with Egan’s expertise, comprehensive solutions, and commitment to service, customers can trust that their systems are in good hands.

Benefits of Encrypted Access Control Credentials

Wednesday, March 26th, 2025

Technology for commercial security systems is continuously evolving to improve the safety and security of office buildings, schools, hospitals, clinics, and other commercial and industrial facilities. Building access control is one of the first security measures many take to monitor who is coming to the building and to increase safety for those inside. Ongoing technology improvements have made building access more secure, preventing unwanted visitors from entering your commercial facility. 

WHAT ARE ENCRYPTED CREDENTIALS?

Encrypted access control credentials use bidirectional technology to verify the identity and authenticity of users entering a facility. When an access card or fob interacts with a security reader, its data is transmitted and compared against a stored database for authentication. While the user experience remains unchanged, the real security enhancements occur within the system’s encryption and hardware.

In addition to upgraded cards and readers, mobile credentials are becoming a preferred solution for commercial properties. Integrating access control with mobile devices enhances convenience, reduces the risk of lost or duplicated cards, and strengthens security. Digital access solutions provide another layer of protection and ease of use, making them an increasingly popular choice for property managers.

HOW ENCRYPTED CREDENTIALS IMPROVE SECURITY

Upgrading your security systems with encrypted credentials enhances both safety and operational control. Unlike traditional card technology, which is vulnerable to duplication, encrypted access ensures only authorized individuals can enter. Additionally, an integrated credential database creates a reliable record of building entries, reinforcing security protocols and providing valuable insights into facility access patterns.

ENHANCE YOUR SECURITY MEASURES

Investing in upgraded access control technology is a proactive step toward protecting your tenants, employees, and visitors. Egan Company’s team can help you select the right commercial security solutions for your facility. The improvements you make today will shape the future security of your property. Get in touch with Egan to learn how a partnership can work for your safety and security goals.

Customize the Way Your Facility Operates

Friday, February 21st, 2025

Overseeing the production and processes within manufacturing plants and industrial facilities takes more than simply flipping a switch. Behind the scenes, complex systems are working across computers, equipment, and operations to ensure everything is in place and working properly. Custom industrial controls can take these processes to the next level, maximizing the production and efficiency of your operations. With the right process controls & system integration partner, your manufacturing and production plant can reach its full potential.

CUSTOM SYSTEM INTEGRATION: FOR INCREASED PRODUCTIVITY

When you have a say in how your plant operates, everything can run more smoothly, with intuitive controls, improved processes, and increased productivity. System integration from Egan Company connects the processes within your industrial facility into a cohesive, functioning operation. Optimizing processes through customized open platform PLC programming and user-friendly software makes it easier to take total control of your manufacturing, production, and building systems. 

Connecting legacy systems with new technology is also possible with a system integrator like Egan at your side. As an experienced system integrator, Egan has leading engineers, designers, and control electricians who can bring your ideas to life and upgrade your entire industrial facility. When communication between systems and equipment is optimized, new possibilities in plant production, operational efficiency, and facility safety are possible. 

IMPROVE YOUR OPERATIONS

Custom controls make running your plant much easier. Partnering with Egan, a trusted system integrator operating in Minnesota and North Carolina, can bring your industrial facility to the next level. Our in-house design and engineering capabilities are where the best system integration ideas begin. Pair that with our 25,000 square foot UL 508A panel shop and your controls are in good hands. No matter how simple or complex your goals are, we can help generate ideas, design, engineer, and build custom control solutions that make your facility easier to run. 

Get in touch with our team to share your ideas for custom controls and system integration in your facility, and we can help find solutions for you. 

The Role of Refrigeration Controls in Food Safety Compliance

Tuesday, February 11th, 2025

Commercial and industrial food manufacturing, handling, and storage requires strict compliance with FDA regulations. Controlling the environment and processes in which food is handled is critical in maintaining compliance as well as preventing spoilage, contamination, and broader health hazards. The refrigeration controls within an industrial food manufacturing facility serve an important role in ensuring quality control and safety for employees and consumers who come in contact with the food. 

TEMPERATURE CONTROL

Maintaining consistent temperatures is one of the most important factors in ensuring food safety and quality within manufacturing and food storage facilities. Custom refrigeration controls enable greater control over the temperature systems, leading to consistency in temperature and in turn, reliably safe and high-quality products. 

Advanced features in Egan’s Refrigeration-IQ™ controls provide tools that can further track temperatures and system health. Leak detection, alarm notifications, and remote access capabilities allow operators to prevent issues and address concerns before they escalate. Technicians are also able to access the industrial refrigeration controls without needing to visit the facility, enabling a faster response time and more efficient troubleshooting. 

PREVENTING HEALTH HAZARDS

Outdated or poorly maintained refrigeration systems can lead to significant risks, including public health hazards and plant shutdowns. Well-maintained and operated refrigeration controls can help prevent concerns such as spoilage and contamination. If your system goes down unexpectedly, the risk for destroyed goods, lost capital, and extended plant shutdowns increases. By monitoring temperature fluctuations and equipment malfunctions, Egan’s Refrigeration-IQ™ controls make it easy to  maintain food safety compliance and maximize your facility’s uptime. 

PUTTING HEALTH, SAFETY, AND QUALITY FIRST

Upgrading refrigeration systems and controls can make all the difference in maintaining food safety compliance within your food manufacturing and storage facility. Modern systems such as Egan’s Refrigeration-IQ™ controls provide precise temperature management, leak detection, alarm notifications, and remote access, which preserve the integrity of perishable goods. Find greater control over your facility and partner with a team of refrigeration experts. Get in touch with Egan’s industrial refrigeration team to learn how you can integrate new controls in your facility. 

Frequently Asked Questions: NFPA 70B

Thursday, February 6th, 2025

Maintain safety and functionality of electrical, electronic, and communication systems in your industrial and commercial facility with updated NFPA 70B guidelines. Staying in the know about NFAP 70B and National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements can keep your facility safe and in compliance.

What does NFPA 70B say?

The updated NFPA guidelines, published in 2023, include updated language, marking a shift from a manufacturer’s recommendation of maintenance to noting an Electrical Maintenance Plan (EMP) is a formal plan facilities shall have in place moving forward. This new verbiage focuses on preventing risks or injuries through regular equipment maintenance, personnel training, and accurate documentation. 

Who does NFPA 70B apply to? 

The electrical code outlines regulations for the systems and equipment in industrial facilities, plants, commercial buildings, and multi-family residential buildings. 

What equipment does 70B apply to? 

The guidelines cover a wide array of specific equipment and devices commonly found in commercial and industrial settings. This includes but is not limited to switchgear, transformers, circuit breakers, motor control centers, busways, cables, and protective devices. While NFPA 70B does not include fabrication equipment, many of its components will have maintenance requirements. It is always recommended that thorough records of service and maintenance for individual equipment, including OEM build equipment, is kept to maintain NFPA 70B compliance.

What is the difference between standard and enforceable code?

A standard provides guidelines for safety and efficiency, while an enforceable code is backed by law and must be followed to ensure compliance. This distinction is crucial for maintaining electrical systems that meet safety standards and legal regulations. They are both written with “shall” language instead of “should” language, marking the shift from recommended to required. 

What happens if I am not in compliance?

Non-compliance with industry standards and electrical codes is a serious risk and hazard for property damage as well as people’s safety. In addition, OSHA can cite and fine facilities who are found to be non-compliant. 

Will 70B affect the design of projects, or just end users? 

Designs do not need to be considered “compliant” with 70B during the planning and drawing stages. However, it is in the best interest of the system designer and planning team to consider the implications of 70B requirements, as it can affect different aspects of the design, including overcurrent protection, arc flash risk, lock out points, de-engerization, and more. Without a 70B-focused system, problems can occur later with equipment performance and maintenance. 

Is condition-based maintenance required for NFPA 70B compliance?

Condition-based maintenance programs are not required within the codes, but can be used to meet requirements for interval-based maintenance if using predictive techniques. Electrical maintenance plans are required according to NFPA 70B, including equipment inspection, testing, monitoring, analysis, and service. Egan Company can help design a custom electrical maintenance plan for your facility and equipment that aligns with your service requirements and budget needs.

Are the new changes for NFPA 70B applied in National Electric Code (NEC) 2023?

The NEC 2023 edition outlines maintenance requirements, though they are non-mandatory to follow NFPA 70B. There is language included that sets 70B as the standard for electrical equipment maintenance, and it is highly recommended that the latest edition is followed when able. 

Do individual facilities get to decide which year of the NEC and 70B they comply with? 

While in some cases, facilities decide which year of the NEC they follow, the 2023 edition of NFPA 70B is the industry standard and should be adopted. Any previously published versions outlined recommended practices, whereas the 2023 edition shifts to required language. Egan recommends complying to the latest standards for all codes, or else risk safety hazards and liabilities.

What do electrical maintenance plans include? 

Partnering with Egan Company makes it easy to stay up to code with NFPA 70B requirements. Our team utilizes state-of-the-art 70B software to promote the ease of electrical maintenance for commercial equipment and facilities looking for custom service plans that meet their budgets while staying compliant with local, state, and federal regulations. 

Maintenance plans include:

  • Electrical Apparatus Testing & Infrared Scans
  • Electrical Maintenance Training
  • Arc Flash/Coordination Studies
  • Arc Risk Assessments
  • Electrically Safe Work Conditions
  • Documentation of Equipment and Service
  • Equipment and facility alerts
  • Maintenance tracking and record-keeping
  • Condition logging

Learn more about electrical maintenance plans and how Egan can partner with you to keep you compliant with NFPA 70B standards and other NEC guidelines.

A Look into Millwright Work

Monday, January 27th, 2025

When a facility needs to shut down equipment for maintenance, upgrades, or repairs, millwrights are able to step up and provide expertise. With extensive knowledge of machinery and heavy equipment, millwrights keep everything working properly at all stages for large-scale projects. The job of a millwright requires a blend of technical skill, precision, and a deep understanding of mechanical systems to ensure safety and quality on a job.

PROJECT RESPONSIBILITIES

During equipment shutdowns at manufacturing facilities, power plants, or industrial buildings, millwrights perform a variety of essential tasks to keep the project on schedule while minimizing any down time from the equipment being offline. Their work includes:

  • Machinery and heavy equipment installation: Millwrights are responsible for the precise installation of large equipment, ensuring it’s correctly aligned, set up, and securely in place.
  • Rigging and erecting: This involves safely moving and positioning heavy components using specialized equipment and techniques.
  • Plant relocation: If a facility relocates, millwrights dismantle, move, and reassemble machinery, ensuring that production can resume efficiently in the new location.
  • Inspections and maintenance: During shutdowns, millwrights will often inspect the equipment and perform any preventative maintenance required to extend the life of the machinery and ensure it is running with maximum efficiency.
  • Conveyor belt installation and maintenance: Miles of conveyor belts are often found in food grade factories, package fulfillment centers, and energy facilities. Egan’s millwrights install, repair, and maintain these systems on a regular basis.
  • Pump realignments: Regular pump and motor realignments keep equipment operating as designed.

KEEPING PROJECTS MOVING

In addition to these core tasks that are common on many jobsites, millwrights also oversee other key equipment and machinery responsibilities, including material handling and storage installation, conveyor systems, bridge and jib cranes, and pump alignment. Their work is not just about fixing things but also about optimizing equipment for peak performance.

Safety is paramount across all of Egan’s teams, and millwright work is no exception. With many potential hazards on a jobsite, planning is critical to ensure the work is completed properly and safely. As a multi-trades contractor, Egan Company is positioned to offer an integrated approach on projects, and our millwright capabilities are an example of the range of services we provide on any given jobsite. Learn more about Egan’s millwright services.

What is the Lifespan of a Commercial Fire Alarm System?

Friday, December 13th, 2024

A well-maintained commercial fire alarm system is vital for the safety and protection of lives and property. Recent technological advancements with fire alarm systems have improved overall performance, and have also made repairing legacy systems more difficult. While annual service trips and commercial fire alarm testing often fulfill safety checks and requirements, when the fire alarm & life safety systems in a facility become too old or the technology outdated, you’ll need to consider updating them.

HOW LONG DO COMMERCIAL FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS LAST?

The lifespan of a commercial fire alarm system typically ranges from 10 to 15 years. This can vary based on different factors, including the quality of the system, if the equipment has received regular maintenance over its lifespan, and technological advancements. By conducting regular system inspections and equipment maintenance on commercial fire alarms, your equipment can last longer and perform better. Egan’s local team of commercial fire alarm technicians in the Twin Cities and Rochester can help perform an inspection on your system and make a plan for necessary repairs and maintenance. 

KEEP YOUR FACILITY SAFE

The most important aspect of your building and your business is that everyone inside is safe. By keeping a pulse on your facility’s fire alarm & life safety systems, you can rest assured that occupants will be alerted and kept safe in case of an emergency. Whether you need an annual facility and equipment inspection, or if it’s been more than 10 years since you’ve replaced your commercial fire alarms, the local team at Egan Company can help. Our fire alarm team partners with you to determine the best course of action to keep your building’s systems in top shape and provide comfort and safety to everyone inside. Get in touch with Egan to schedule a fire alarm inspection or an audit of your existing system to learn about options for your facility.

Increase Energy Efficiency in Commercial Buildings

Wednesday, November 20th, 2024

Commercial buildings, retail spaces, and warehouses spend on average one-third of their operating costs on energy usage, including lighting, refrigeration, heating, cooling, and water heating. With new technology and building automation solutions, energy efficient initiatives can improve a building’s decarbonization, lower operating costs, and improve the overall environmental impact. Transitioning to energy efficient infrastructure is a strategic move that many businesses are implementing as they look ahead and prepare for the future.

INCORPORATE BUILDING AUTOMATION

Building automation systems (BAS) are one of the leading technologies in commercial energy efficiency initiatives. Integrating with smart technology, these systems enable easy monitoring and control of building functions, including lighting, heating, and cooling. The right BAS optimizes the energy efficiency within a facility, making adjustments based on internal and external conditions such as building occupancy, weather,  and time of day. 

energy efficiency

Building automation systems can be controlled from a singular point, even across multiple buildings, making them user-friendly and accessible for a variety of corporate campuses, schools, and retail spaces. Connecting to an automation system can improve the energy efficiency, operating costs, and comfort within your facility, which can result in long-term payoffs for your business.

UPGRADE LEGACY PNEUMATIC SYSTEMS

Buildings that haven’t switched their Automation systems from pneumatic to direct digital control (DDC) equipment have a real opportunity to increase their energy efficiency, improve total building operating costs, and increase the comfort of the facility. Outdated compressors require a lot of energy to run, and they are less reliable and precise in air handling than their digital counterparts. By converting to a new DDC system, buildings can see a significant improvement in air flow, comfort, maintenance, and operating costs all year round. 

ENERGY-EFFICIENT TECHNOLOGIES

Finally, upgrading to energy efficient technology and equipment can improve the total operating costs and energy efficiency of your building. Switching to LED lighting is an easy way to upgrade your commercial facility. Smart technology, including thermostats and energy monitoring systems, can enhance the maintenance of the property and provide a better experience for occupants. Based on local power companies and state availability, rebates are available for commercial facilities who integrate energy efficient lighting, HVAC, and other technologies. Contacting your local utility provider is the best way to learn what is available for your building. 

IMPROVE YOUR BUILDING’S ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Finding energy efficient solutions for your commercial property can help you keep your energy consumption and costs down, especially through extreme weather conditions that often occur in Minnesota. As a local electrical, mechanical, and building automation contractor and systems integrator in Champlin and Rochester, Minn., Egan Company understands the importance of keeping commercial buildings updated with new technologies and building automation systems. Whether you are looking for complete system upgrades, or need regular equipment and facility maintenance and service, our team can help. Let’s work together to create a more comfortable environment for your customers and employees, while improving your building’s operating costs with energy efficient solutions.