Commercial insulation is a crucial part of promoting energy efficiency and the working environment of your business. When the insulation in your building is properly installed with appropriate levels of thermal insulation, it can reduce the cost of your utility bill, protect your equipment, provide comfort for employees, and help to control sound transmission.
R-Value
When determining if an insulator is working for your business’ specific needs, an important factor is its R-value. R-value is the measure of thermal resistance, or how well a type of insulation can resist the transfer of heat. The higher the R-value of a material, the more effective it is as an insulator, and the better the energy savings. Factors such as material, thickness, and density determine the R-value of an insulator. A professional mechanical insulation contractor will use a material with the proper R-value in accordance with the National Building Code.
It can be hard to determine the R-value of your building without a full professional inspection. If you’re still unsure of the efficiency of the thermal conductivity of your building’s insulation, there are signs that indicate the insulation is underperforming:
High electric bills
If you notice that your utility bill has an unexpected and sudden spike in cost, despite no change in energy consumption, it might be time for an insulation upgrade. If the existing insulation is no longer able to retain heat as it should, you’ll notice it becomes very costly for your HVAC system to moderate the temperature.
Frozen pipes
Albertan weather can easily reach freezing temperatures in the winter months. Proper insulation will protect your building from water damage caused by freezing temperatures. If your building is under-insulated however, you may notice frozen pipes, which may eventually burst and cause water damage.
Fluctuations in Temperature
When your HVAC system is well insulated, temperatures should remain consistent throughout different rooms. With poor insulation, you will notice different temperatures as you move from room to room.
Condensation
Piping and equipment that operate below the ambient air temperature usually create condensation, which can lead to pipe erosion, unsafe conditions, and a loss of energy. Moisture in the air will condense on a surface unless the system is protected by properly installed mechanical insulation.
While it can be challenging to determine whether or not the thermal conductivity of your insulation is performing effectively, these are clear signs to provide you with more insight. The best way to tell if your building is well insulated is to have a professional insulation expert perform an inspection. If you notice any of the warning signs above, it’s time to contact our team at Westcal Insulation!
