Testing Shows Automatic Door Closers Save on Energy Costs
DCS Global said the device can save more than 30 percent on energy costs when compared to sliding doors being left open.
Sometimes people overlook the simplest ways to save on energy costs – like making sure doors are securely closed to maintain the desired indoor temperatures.
DCS Global, the Phoenix-based manufacturer of the Ultra-Glide sliding glass door closer, recently tested the effect of leaving a sliding door open over a period of 8 hours. Just one sliding glass door left open while air conditioning is being used resulted in electric costs that were 40 percent higher than normal. Even with the door left halfway open, the electric cost was significantly higher at a 30 percent increase.
Open doors can effect more than the energy bill. When doors are left open, the air conditioning unit works harder to maintain a cool temperature and reduce humidity. Because the air conditioning unit is worker harder, it will most likely have higher maintenance costs and a shorter life overall. Humidity can also create problems, resulting in damage to painted finishes as well as carpets and furniture.
DCS Global suggests that the quickest solution to keeping energy costs down is the installation of sliding glass door closers like the Ultra-Glide. Self-closing devices are easily installed on sliding doors.