FACILITIES MANAGEMENT


A SIMPLE SOLUTION TO IMPROVE ENERGY EFFICIENCY


Facilities managers are increasingly looking for ways to meet sustainability standards


while maximising the energy efficiency of buildings. Craig Bennett, CEO at Sigma, looks at one simple strategy facilities managers can deploy to reduce a building’s energy consumption


the brand’s high standards and with the aim of making its stores more energy-efficient and carbon neutral, M&S has relied on its collaborative partner, Sigma for the completion of various projects over the past few years. During a recent project, the Sigma team suggested that instead of overhauling the wet heating systems at several M&S Food Halls and Simply Food stores, the retailer consider ways to improve the efficiency and extend the lifespan of existing systems. They recommended the installation of magnetic filters to improve system efficiency. As this was closely aligned with its plans to improve energy efficiency while employing best practice, M&S agreed, commissioning the Sigma team to proceed with the installation of magnetic filters at ten stores across the country. Once suitable stores for the project had been


identified, Sigma partnered with Adley, which offers a range of filters designed to provide powerful inline, full-flow system filtration. The company’s MagnaClean Commercial filters are not only easy to install and service but have also been proven to help restore heating system efficiency and performance. Additionally, the filters are compatible with all heating systems. Once the filters had been fitted, the stores were


W


hen it comes to facility fit-outs or upgrades, a complete retrofit can often be


quite complicated, expensive and disruptive. There are, however, several reliable systems that can help facilities managers achieve their energy efficiency and sustainability goals. Many of the systems being developed for use in


fit-outs are intrinsically sustainable. Intelligent lighting and heating systems, for example, provide optimal brightness and temperatures while continuously ensuring that energy use and costs are reduced. But, one example which


“There


are several reliable systems that can


is often overlooked is the installation of magnetic filters – and this is unfortunate as high-performance magnetic filters are one of the simplest, least disruptive and most cost- effective ways of improving system efficiency, reducing energy bills, lowering maintenance costs, and extending the lifespan of commercial heating systems.


help facilities managers achieve their energy efficiency and sustainability goals”


form in heating systems over time, with the subsequent debris forming a sludge-like substance. If this sludge accumulates it can limit heat output and circulation and, if trapped in the boiler or central heating pump, it can lead to system failure. By installing a magnetic filter, the build-up of sludge is prevented and the destructive impact of corrosion on heating systems is minimised. By allowing water to continue flowing through the system as normal, it improves durability and efficiency. The latter is important as inefficient systems need to work harder, leading to


increased energy usage and higher energy bills.


DELIVERING EFFICIENCIES FOR M&S


The efficacy of magnetic filters is evident in a recent project undertaken


AN ATTRACTIVE OPTION A magnetic filter is a device that collects debris within a heating system. Rust and corrosion can


by Sigma for M&S. The retailer is well-known for its commitment to building a more sustainable future and it has been rolling out various energy- efficiency programmes across its stores. In line with


30 ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY SOLUTIONS - Spring 2023


monitored to identify changes in gas consumption and determine whether energy savings were being achieved. Gas consumption for November 2022 was compared with that of November 2021, with the results showing energy savings of approximately 10% per store. This, coupled with additional energy efficiency measures implemented by M&S across the stores, resulted in total energy savings of up to 25% per site.


BENEFITS Facilities managers keen to maximise the energy efficiency of buildings should partner with a competent partner who can provide a professional assessment of what upgrades or installations are needed. Simple and effective solutions which are planned correctly can deliver outstanding sustainable results.


Craig Bennett


Sigma www.sigmagrp.co.uk


www.essmag.co.uk


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