Category: Sports Science (Dry lab)
Level: Gold
Author: Renolds R., Leferink H.
The Impact: <p><span data-sheets-root="1">Reduce energy usage of HVAC systems</span></p>
Details
Temperature and humidity levels are likely to be extremely important and considered experimental factors in most sports science labs. However, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) are also often considering one of the biggest energy consumers in such labs due to the generally large indoor spaces, the amount of heat producing equipment and generally their extended needs to keep experimental conditions optimal.
Keeping active management of your HVAC system to reduce unnecessary cooling or heating of spaces can be a great way to reduce your energy usage and emissions output.
Consider if your lab space and experimental designs could allow zoned heating or cooling areas, wider temperature ranges within experimental parameters, or ways in which the conditioning is only used during testing. Assessing the HVAC system settings for out of hours and when the lab is not in use could highlight some easy wins.
Engaging with the estates team of your facility could showcase ways in which the HVAC system could be adjusted to suit Health and Safety and experimental requirements while considering the most sustainble measures.
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