How Commercial Door Hardware Can Improve Energy Efficiency

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Understanding Energy Efficiency in Doors

Doors are some of the most used and vulnerable components of any building. Whenever a door opens, heat or cold air escapes. This forces the HVAC system to work harder, which directly translates to higher energy costs. By investing in better commercial door hardware, you’ll create a more sealed, controlled environment in your building. 

Door Seals and Weatherstripping

Door seals and weatherstripping are essential for minimizing drafts and leaks through gaps in and around doors. These small additions consist of rubber, silicone, or foam, which create a buffer between the exterior and interior and provide a tight seal.

How They Boost Energy Efficiency

When doors aren’t sealed, air leakage becomes inevitable. It compromises interior climate control, so the HVAC system will need to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. By installing door seals and weatherstripping, you reduce energy consumption and enhance indoor comfort.

Recommendations To Get Started

For maximum durability and elasticity, opt for high-quality weatherstripping materials, such as silicone or reinforced foam. Also, make it a habit to maintain and replace old or worn-out seals since they have diminished effectiveness.

Door Pull

Thermal Break Doors

By leveraging advanced insulation techniques, thermal break doors minimize the transfer of heat or cold through the door. These doors feature an energy-efficient core made of thermally insulating materials sandwiched between two layers of metal or wood.

How They Boost Energy Efficiency

Thermal breaks act as barriers to conductive heat loss, which can be particularly beneficial for properties located in extreme climates. By minimizing temperature transfer, thermal break doors maintain interior conditions and prevent energy waste.

Why They’re Essential

Thermal break doors are an excellent investment for owners of large commercial buildings prone to heavy foot traffic or extreme weather conditions. They combine durability with climate efficiency without compromising functionality,  so you can save on energy costs. 

Automatic Door Operators

Automatic door operators open and close doors without requiring manual input. You can easily program these operators for precise operation because they have sensors and motorized systems.

How They Improve Energy Efficiency

Pairing automatic door operators with advanced sensors guarantees that doors will only open when needed, such as when someone is entering or exiting. This reduces the amount of time doors are left ajar, minimizing heat or cooling loss. For doors that serve high-traffic areas, automatic operators can make a huge difference in preventing HVAC strain.

Quick Tips for Implementation

To prevent unnecessary openings, install motion-sensor technology or touchless automatic doors in lobbies and entryways. Additionally, you can choose energy-efficient motorized systems.

Insulated Door Frames

Door frames can also contribute to energy efficiency in commercial buildings. Insulated door frames lined with thermally resistant materials minimize heat transfer from the edges of a door assembly.

Benefits of Insulated Frames

Insulated door frames prevent energy from escaping through weak points around the door frame. Integrating insulated frames with weatherstripping will further enhance energy retention in your building.

Ideal Uses

Insulated frames can be especially beneficial for exterior doors exposed to the elements. Plus, they’re must-haves for climate-sensitive spaces, such as food storage facilities or data centers. 

Revolving Doors

Revolving doors maintain a constant barrier between indoor and outdoor environments, even as people pass through them. Their unique design eliminates a direct pathway for air exchange.

Energy-Saving Potential

Revolving doors are incredibly effective for energy conservation, particularly in high-traffic commercial spaces like hotels or office buildings. The continuous seal they maintain prevents external air from rushing in, keeping conditioned air inside where it belongs.

Bonus Perk

Beyond energy savings, revolving doors also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property. If you are going for a modern and polished look, revolving doors are the best choice.  

Revolving Door

High-Performance Door Closers

Door closers automatically shut doors after they open. They are commonplace in commercial and industrial settings and sit at the top of the door.

How They Contribute to Energy Efficiency

Door closers prevent doors from staying open, reducing the opportunity for heat or cooling loss. They are especially important for exterior doors or doors dividing climate-controlled zones. When selecting door closers for your building, focus on options with adjustable closing speeds and delayed action capabilities to accommodate various operational needs.

Glazing Options and Door Windows

Energy-Efficient Glass Matters

If your commercial doors have windows or glass panels, the type of glass has the potential to affect energy efficiency. Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass, for example, reflects heat rather than absorbs it.

Energy and Aesthetic Benefits

While energy-efficient glazing reduces dependence on HVAC systems, it also allows natural light into your facility. This contributes to lower electricity usage during the daytime. However, it’s best to get double or triple-glazed panels to maximize energy retention and minimize environmental impact.

Tips for Holistic Door Maintenance

  • Create a maintenance schedule to inspect seals, hinges, and other hardware for wear and tear.
  • Outdated hardware diminishes energy efficiency, so evaluate energy-efficient alternatives and upgrade when possible.
  • Improperly installed hardware will fail to perform optimally, so always have certified technicians do the installations.


Take the First Step Toward a More Efficient Building

Creating an energy-efficient commercial building doesn’t have to require massive overhauls. Small upgrades, such as installing the right commercial door hardware, can lead to massive improvements. By staying aware of how commercial door hardware can impact energy efficiency, you can cut costs and reduce your property’s environmental impact.

Looking for the best door hardware options for your property? Explore the vast collection of energy-efficient door hardware solutions available at DoorHub. Armed with the right hardware, you can make your building run more efficiently while staying environmentally responsible. 

 

Avatar for Greg Richard

Author

Greg Richard

Chief Technical Officer and Founding Member of DoorHub.com