Measures Requiring Some Funds

1. Changing lead boilers for hot water and heating to highly efficient ones.
2. Retrofitting all lights in garages, corridors, and common elements.
3. Installing thermo covers for pool and whirlpool.

   

   The cover can be rolled manually (not difficult and less expensive) or it can be automated (more expensive).

4. If the garage ventilation fans are on at all times, putting them on carbon monoxide detectors can lower electricity costs substantially. This initiative will also prolong the life of the motors.
5. Adding variable speed drives to the fans that bring air in the building. This change may not be useful in saving energy and money in buildings where air flow is already limited.
6. A building automation system (BAS) may help the implementation of some of the measures suggested above. This is a software system installed in the management or superintendent’s office.

   But such a system also carries disadvantages, mainly in terms of initial price and costs associated with training managers or superintendents. In residential condos, these automated systems are often underutilized by managers, especially when there is a high turnover rate. As a result, the savings that could be obtained are not forthcoming.

   These systems cost anywhere from $80,000 and upward—substantial sums, especially when they are not properly used afterwards. They can be expensive to maintain and particularly to upgrade later on. As well, some condos keep upgrading their system, each time requiring training for managers and, often, these upgrades are not used.

7. When changing windows that break, have them replaced by energy efficient ones.
8. Whenever feasible, pool water should be heated by solar energy. Chemicals, or salt water, which is corrosive for pipes, can be replaced by a UV sanitizing system. (Consult information contained in the Readers Respond pages: Click here for Useful Tips for Buildings.)
9. Adding solar energy in general, although this item is still expensive and the pay-back may still be quite long, may be considered. Many governments provide incentives, including Ottawa’s Ministry of Natural Resources.