The average hospital will use 2.5 times the amount of energy that other commercial buildings are currently using. Could we cut the cost of healthcare if hospitals implemented some energy-saving strategies? Could window films or window tinting be a part of this strategy? Typically, the management of energy is not seen as a high priority in hospitals as energy costs typically account for 2-3% of total operating expenses. However, energy management is important and should be seen as such. If hospitals could cut down energy costs and be more energy efficient, it would cut down on overall expenses, which would help patients save money on expensive medical bills.
Energy efficiency is not always a top priority, however. There are many reasons why energy management is being overlooked in hospitals. First of all, it is often a challenge to create a sense of urgency regarding energy issues in hospitals when there are so many other urgent matters. Also, in many instances, the facilities staff has been reduced in order to save money at many hospitals. Therefore, developing and implementing energy efficient plans is something that is a little more difficult. What can be done about this?
Energy management practices do need to be implemented in hospitals. Some of these strategies can include the use of sub-metering and also other energy monitoring technologies, the development of a strategic energy master plan, and dedicated financing like participation in energy efficiency incentives. Another thing hospitals could do to implement energy management strategies is install window films, which would greatly cut down on the amount of energy that is being wasted every month.
Window films can greatly help energy efficiency plans. In the winter months, window films can help to keep heat inside, and in the summer months, they can help to keep the heat outside so that air conditioning units do not have to work as hard. Window films also help to block harmful UV rays that can increase the heat inside of the building, especially during the summer months. Another advantage is that instead of the expense of replacing windows, installing window films is a better way to increase security, decrease energy use, and protect medical equipment, patients, and doctors alike from harmful solar waves.
There are many benefits associated with installing window films, in commercial buildings, in residential buildings, and in hospitals. In a time when hospitals really need to start thinking about energy management, this may just be one strategy that is affordable and easy enough to implement.