Power Smart for Business: Using Energy Wisely in ... - Manitoba Hydro

Appliances
Raise the evaporator temperature to the
maximum level possible.
Optimal refrigeration efficiency is achieved
with ambient air relative humidity levels between
40 to 55 per cent.
Verify operation and efficiency of defrost timers and
moisture sensors to ensure optimal performance.
Turn off lights in unoccupied refrigerated areas.
Optimize the defrost cycle based on seasonal,
humidity, and load requirements by resetting
cycle frequency or installing an automatic control.
Control conditions to reduce refrigeration needs.
Install:
• a thermometer in each freezer to enable frequent
temperature checks;
• dehumidifier units to control humidity;
• defrost controls;
• evaporator fan motor controls;
• sensors to monitor product temperature, instead
of air temperature in a cold storage area;
• motion sensors to turn off lights in unoccupied
refrigerated areas.
Control the refrigeration system to operate only
when a product needs cooling.
Purge non-condensables from the refrigeration
system at each purge point.
Maintenance and prevention:
Regular maintenance and cleaning helps appliances
to run at peak efficiency. Certain signs indicate that
your appliance may need servicing. Look for:
• absence of fluid in the site glass;
(This may indicate that there is no
refrigerant in that portion of the system.)
• high pressure readings on any gauges;
(This may indicate problems;)
• new noises from the refrigeration room;
(This may indicate mechanical problems.)
If your appliances show any of these signs,
contact a service professional.
Consider contracting monthly/bimonthly
maintenance.
Perform regular checks and inspect:
• mechanical and electrical equipment,
• filters,
• refrigerant charge,
• economizer,
• cabinet panels,
• unusual noise, vibration, and decrease in
performance of compressors/motors.
Schedule regular maintenance checks for
fans, evaporator and condenser coils, and
compressors.
Clean this equipment regularly. Dirt build-up
reduces efficiency. Ensure the evaporator coils
are kept free of ice.
Manage anti-sweat heaters and defrost cycles
and turn off when not required.
Keep cold air supply and return registers clean
and clear of product.
Ensure hot and cold water basins are clean.
Clean and disinfect condensate drain pan.
Defrost freezers when ice build-up reaches
5 mm thick.
Check door seals and weather stripping regularly
and repair if needed.
Insert a piece of paper between a door and its
frame. If the paper can be withdrawn easily, the
gasket is not sealing properly.
Adjust door latches.
Change filters regularly.
Ensure compressor belts maintain proper tension.
Replace damaged and worn belts promptly.
Replace all insulation damaged by moisture.
The presence of frost may indicate a breakdown
in insulation.
9