Energy Efficiency – December 2024

During this time of year, furnaces start running; kitchen appliances bake, store and re-warm holiday goodies; and Christmas lights begin twinkling, so reducing energy costs should be at the front of everyone’s minds. However, energy efficiency is more than just cutting costs. Energy efficiency also increases property value, can improve a business’ competitiveness and has even been proven to improve individuals’ physical and mental health. There’s no disadvantage.

The following Omaha companies make sustainable development and an energy efficient lifestyle attainable for the average person.

The responsible and economical use of energy is not only essential for environmental sustainability but also for reducing operational costs and increasing reliability across all building systems. Efficient energy use conserves resources, lowers emissions and contributes to a cleaner environment—which aligns with Optimized Systems’ (optimized-systems.com) commitment to sustainable building operations.

By optimizing building automation systems (BAS) to ensure peak performance, it minimizes waste and maximizes energy savings. By helping building owners and operators use energy responsibly, Optimized Systems decreases costs, extends system life and reduces environmental impact—empowering clients to make impactful, responsible choices every step of the way.

When building systems operate efficiently, it requires less energy to maintain desired conditions, leading to lower utility bills. Many existing systems consume excessive energy by running when not needed or by operating inefficiently. By retrofitting these systems with modern, energy-saving techniques, clients not only cut down on energy waste but also reduce wear and tear, lowering maintenance costs and extending the lifespan of their equipment.

Energy-efficient measures are often advertised as requiring new equipment or controls, but this can be a costly endeavor with varying payback periods. Optimization leverages existing equipment, allowing owners to achieve a quick return on investment by minimizing expenses and maximizing energy efficiency, saving valuable dollars.

“At Optimized Systems, our optimization techniques start with a detailed assessment and testing of a building’s existing systems to understand current functionality and identify areas of inefficiency,” says President and Founder Rick Kmiecik. “We analyze data to detect equipment that may be overworking, outdated or running unnecessarily, pinpointing specific opportunities for improvement.”

From there, Optimized Systems designs a customized, comprehensive optimization plan that enhances efficiency without compromising comfort or performance. Optimized Systems’ strategies include implementing advanced controls, upgrading outdated components and fine-tuning system operations to reduce energy waste. This targeted approach provides clients with customized strategies, tailored to significantly lowering energy use, cost and environmental impact.

A significant energy-efficient and financially-beneficial solution to high utility costs is reassessing a home or business’ automation system.

A building automation system provides control for the HVAC, lighting, security and life safety systems in a building. Control Depot (controldepotinc.com) provides innovative cost-effective solutions and designs across the entire spectrum of building types in both the commercial and residential markets.

“Whether your needs are basic replacement components or a fully integrated solution, our team provides the expertise, technologies and support you need to get the job done right,” says Vice President and Managing Director Jeff Killeen. “Our overall goal is to provide our clients with systems to ensure comfort, provide safety, enhance their overall productivity.”

Control Depot partners with the leading suppliers of building technologies in order to provide its customers with the best products available. As a Honeywell Authorized Systems Distributor, Control Depot offers a full-line of Honeywell commercial and residential products to fulfill any HVAC controls or security needs. From a simple residential thermostat to a complex web-based building automation system, Control Depot supports and stocks the Honeywell parts its clients need.

As a Belimo Platinum Distributor, Control Depot carries a complete line of Belimo actuators, valves and sensors. Belimo is a global leader in the commercial HVAC components market with a strong commitment to quality and value in all its product offerings.

Additionally, Control Depot offers top quality product from suppliers such as EasyIO, Viconics, Tridium, Honeywell Analytics (including BW and Rae), Prolon, Lutron, Johnson Controls, ACI, Siemens, eGauge, Millenial Net and many, many more, all of which make switching to energy-efficient options less daunting.

Engineered Controls (engineeredcontrols.com) similarly understands that lighting and HVAC systems are generally to blame for a significant portion of a building’s high operational costs. It’s estimated that lighting and HVAC systems can collectively account for up to 80% of a building’s total energy usage, which is all the more reason for a business to reevaluate its energy footprint and see if there is a better, more environmentally friendly solution.

Engineered Controls supports its customers in identifying areas where efficiency can be improved within their buildings via its Energy Optimization programs. These programs leverage a diverse array of energy-efficient products and solutions and are overseen by their team of knowledgeable professionals.

Pat Killeen, the Owner of Engineered Controls, shared the programs’ objective saying “The aim is to provide building owners and managers with real-world data to make informed decisions that not only enhance the comfort of occupants but also reduce energy consumption.”

Engineered Controls is dedicated to delivering high-quality products and services that establish efficient, safe and comfortable building environments that not only safe on costs, but that help companies shrink their energy footprint, which allows them to contribute their share to energy conservation efforts.

Now, how does one specifically reduce electrical costs associated with building automations? Well, Langer Electric (langerelectricne.com) strives to provide superior service as an electrical contractor for Blair and the surrounding areas and communities. Langer Electric’s team of electricians is professional and well-equipped to handle any and all electrical needs, from residential and commercial projects to lighting and camera installations. Langer Electric even offers boat lift services.

“We provide quick and reliable solutions and use only the best parts for the job,” assures Owner Chris Langer. “We are committed to delivering high-quality service and are here to ensure that your electrical project runs smoothly. We want it to meet and exceed your expectations.”

Langer Electric provides quick, reliable solutions, using only the highest quality materials, while also planning and communicating with clients to guarantee its services meet each customer’s unique needs and budget. With Langer Electric, keeping the house up to date to meet electrical codes and implementing solutions to make any house, especially older homes, energy efficient doesn’t have to be expensive. Langer Electric offers solutions that cover all the bases, maximizing efficiency, lowering costs and reducing emissions that are harmful to the environment.

Langer Electric serves the Omaha Metro Area by offering 24/7 electrical services and by demonstrating that electrical work does not have to be intimidating. Langer Electric guarantees that electrical work can in fact be done in a timely and cost-efficient manner, no matter the project. Clients’ wallets and agriculture-dependent communities will be smiling thanks to Langer Electric’s energy-efficient maintenance.

Omaha’s experts specialize in implementing energy-efficient technologies crucial for a sustainable future. By tapping into their knowledge, one can significantly lower waste, greenhouse gas emissions and utility costs, making substantial strides towards a more sustainable environment.