Most commercial buildings require a lot of electricity for their day-to-day operations to run efficiently. Working with a commercial electrician can help business owners understand these energy demands. Here are some of the major applications of electricity in commercial buildings:
Lighting
A commercial building’s lighting system contributes to a large amount of its electrical load. Most interior spaces need general room lighting, local lighting for each function, and zone illumination. Security lighting provides lighting in parking lots, on pathways, and on exterior facades. Standby and exit lighting systems should always be functional to allow occupants to navigate the building safely in case of power loss or emergency. Many modern structures install energy-saving LED lighting devices and smart controls to reduce overuse and increase versatility.
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
HVAC systems are among the largest electricity consumers in most commercial facilities. Ventilation systems distribute clean air and expel pollutants from indoor environments to improve indoor air quality. A commercial electrician can install new HVAC units that incorporate efficient energy control solutions to regulate system use depending on the number of people, weather, and time. Smart systems might significantly reduce energy consumption while also keeping occupants comfortable.
Office Equipment and Electronics
Modern offices depend on many electronic appliances that need power frequently. Some key parts of business infrastructure are computers, monitors, and servers. Multifunctional peripherals, such as printers and copiers, are used daily for document processing. Telecommunication systems aid in internal organizational communication and link employees with the outside world. Some offices allow their personnel to charge personal gadgets in the office.
Elevators and Escalators
Vertical transportation systems use a lot of electricity in multi-storied buildings. Elevator motors require a lot of energy to lift heavy loads multiple stories, and most escalators run constantly. Control systems and electronic safety measures for transportation systems also require adequate electricity to function properly. Some contemporary elevator designs integrate features such as regenerative braking that help recover energy during the descending cycle.
Security and Access Control Systems
Security cameras and other security instruments are turned on at all times to monitor and prevent any potential dangers. Electronic security systems consist of functional control points that regulate access to gates and monitor staff traffic in a building. Security measures like alarms and emergency lights should always be on standby as they are used to notify occupants and other legal agencies of breaches of security or forms of disaster.
Data Centers and IT Infrastructure
Large commercial structures commonly have data centers or other necessary computer setups used for business needs. Computer machinery and air conditioning consume a large amount of power in server rooms. Communications equipment provides uninterrupted connections for businesses’ operations. Sources of power backup include Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) and backup generators that help prevent data loss and downtime during disruptions.
Specialized Equipment
Specialty stores, such as restaurants and cafeterias, often have larger electrical appliances and higher energy consumption than traditional office buildings. Healthcare facilities usually handle delicate medical equipment that requires a clean and consistent electrical supply. Business conferences and theaters use complex PA systems to support presentations or performances.
Work With a Commercial Electrician
Electricity runs many systems that are critical to contemporary commercial building operations. By knowing your business’s electrical requirements, building managers can design effective measures to regulate the use of electricity. Contact a commercial electrician today for information on installation and repair services.
