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Q: How broad is motors usage in any given facility?
A: Motor systems account for approximately 60% to 70% of the total electricity used in a facility. A properly maintained and operating motor can reduce downtime, increase reliability and boost productivity. That's why it's critical to maintain your motor system and have a plan for when a motor fails.
Q: What's the price vs. operation cost comparison of a new motor?
A: The price of a new motor is only two percent of what it will cost you over its life. The rest is energy. That means buying a motor based on cost rather than efficiency will actually cost you more in the long run. That's why Xcel Energy recommends NEMA Premium motors for long term savings.
Q: What are some of the kinds of facilities that use motors?
A: Of course there are manufacturing and industrial or warehouse applications, but also moving sidewalks or escalators, colleges/schools, dentist offices, optometrist office grocery stores, hospitals and health care facilities, large and mid-sized office buildings (from 4,000 to 400,000 square feet), hotels, retail stores and restaurants. Wherever you have moving heat and air conditioning you have motor and drives pumping water around the building.
Q: What kinds of rebate programs does Xcel Energy offer its customers?
A: Rebate amounts are roughly up to $70 for a 10 hp motor. We offer programs in Minnesota, Colorado and New Mexico. You can get rebates for new motors purchases, motors upgrades, variable or adjustable speed drives and even custom projects. Some of the details are different per each state, but if you have a motor system in your facility, you should consider partnering with us to operate as efficiently as possible. One thing to note: some of our larger customers have account managers. For those who don't, they can call our Business Solution Center and speak to an energy efficiency specialist @ 1-800-481-4700.
Q: Explain variable frequency drives and how important efficiency is for them.
A: VFDs offer the ability to precisely regulate speed and provide you greater comfort. It also may prolong equipment life and lower maintenance costs for motors.
Q: Tell me about the importance of having a motors plan in place.
A: Often times it takes a crisis or major breakdown before a facility gets a new motor. But the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" rule doesn't exactly apply here. We encourage facilities to have a motors plan in place – it's MUCH easier than managing a crisis.
Q: What is a motor management plan?
A: A motor management plan can be simple or comprehensive, depending on your needs. The components of an effective plan are:
• Itemize what you have
• Define what you're going to do if it breaks down and what the replacement product is
• If a motor is on its last breath, does it make sense to upgrade it now before its too late?
• Does it make sense to put a VFD on it?
• Work with your motor vendor to assist you
Q: How can a plan help?
A: A plan represents the action or step required when a failed motor problem occurs. You have made a decision based on analysis rather than impulse reaction which will cost you more money. Everybody is on the same page. A sound motor management plan will:
• Reduce downtime caused by motor failure
• Increase reliability
• Boost productivity by reducing required maintenance and repair
• Reduce operating and energy costs by maximizing motor efficiency
Q: Is there a certain kind of motors you recommend?
A: We always recommend high-efficiency, NEMA Premium™ motors. They are manufactured with the highest quality materials and often carry longer warranties.
Q: How can you build a plan that suits your company?
A: Call the experts at Xcel Energy.
Q: Where can people learn more?
A: We recommend calling the Business Solutions Center at 1-800-481-4700. You can also visit our site at www.xcelenergy.com/MotorEfficiency
posted: 12/8/2011
This material is not created or selected by FacilitiesNet's editorial staff. It is provided by sponsoring advertisers.
