How to Select the Proper Fuel Source for Your Commercial Building

Space heating accounts for 32% of all energy used in commercial buildings, making it the largest energy consumer in most facilities. Thus, a building’s performance relies heavily on its heating systems for operational purposes. As a facility or commercial building manager, ensuring safe, consistent, and comfortable conditions is a top priority.

While much attention is often placed on selecting the right heating equipment, one critical element frequently gets overlooked—the fuel source.

The fuel you choose will likely hinge on numerous factors, including location and climate, infrastructure availability, cost, environmental impact, etc. However, selecting the right fuel is vitally important, as it not only impacts energy costs but also influences the overall efficiency, environmental compliance, and long-term budget of your building.

Natural Gas

Natural gas is among the most popular fuel sources in the U.S., accounting for approximately 34% of total energy used in American buildings. Because natural gas burns cleanly and tends to be less expensive than oil or electric sources, it’s often viewed as the most cost-effective option for large commercial buildings.

Modern innovations have pushed natural gas’s efficiency limits. There are examples of some gas-fired heaters performing up to 97% efficiency as the units’ separated combustion feature draws combustion air from the outside, ensuring indoor spaces are equipped with plenty of clean air. Additionally, the majority of natural gas solutions are designed to operate with propane, an applicable option when natural gas infrastructure is unavailable.

Hydronic Options

If forced air is not an option, building managers may consider implementing a hydronic system. Water is an excellent conductor of heat, reaching efficiencies up to 95%. Additionally, water-based systems typically require less upkeep and don’t rely on blowing air, reducing the circulation of dust and allergens. Several hydronic units come in 22,000- to 195,000-Btuh sizes with 370- to 3,200-cfm outputs. Through multiple use cases, hydronic units have been proven to use 50% less electricity while producing 35% higher discharge temperatures.

Electric Heat

Electric heat is an efficient, environmentally friendly option, producing heat without combustion or direct emissions. Electric heaters don’t leak carbon monoxide, are available in various configurations, operate quietly, and offer precise heating through zoning. Additionally, electric heat aligns well with renewable energy sources, making it a more futureproof option than its counterparts. If and when companies aim to incorporate renewable energy sources, existing electric heating options can be quickly and easily scaled and connected.

Electric heaters come in various types, including unit heaters, radiant heaters, and infrared heaters, each suitable for different applications.

One example of an electric heater is a horizontal electric heater. This type of unit is recommended for buildings that have low ceilings. With motors that are enclosed and protected from thermal overload, these types of electric heaters are equipped with horizontal air deflector blades to adjust airflow in either direction. Horizontal electric heaters are typically used for perimeter heating needs for commercial buildings.

For washdown applications, electric corrosion-resistant unit heaters are a suitable option. These units are shielded from water penetration giving it a longer life in corrosive or washdown environments. An epoxy-coated fan blade can also contribute to a longer operational life.

Oil Heat

Oil heating, while less common than natural gas and electric systems, provides high energy output and is a reliable solution in remote areas where other fuel sources may not be readily available. Oil furnaces and boilers are often used in buildings without access to a natural gas pipeline and can deliver robust heating performance even in extremely cold climates.

Conclusion

Every building is unique, and, ultimately, the most sustainable fuel choice will depend on numerous factors, such as local availability, climate, building type, and specific operational goals. Facility managers should consider the broader implications of their fuel choice, not just in terms of immediate costs and efficiency, but also long-term environmental impact.

By carefully evaluating each of these factors, you can select the most optimal fuel source for your specific needs, maximizing energy savings and minimizing environmental impact. Whether you opt for natural gas, electric, or oil heating, understanding the long-term implications of your choice will ensure a more efficient and sustainable building operation.