Keep cool, spend less: 5 Smart building upgrades with real ROI

Summer heatwaves are right around the corner—now’s the perfect time for condo and co-op boards to proactively reduce energy costs and improve resident comfort. High utility bills, overheated hallways, and resident complaints are all signs it’s time to rethink your building’s cooling strategy.

The best investment isn't always a newer AC unit; it's reducing the need for heavy air conditioning in the first place. By investing in smart, passive cooling upgrades this spring, your building can lower summer energy expenses, enhance resident satisfaction, and deliver tangible returns on investment.

Ready to make your building cooler and more efficient? Here are five impactful ways to prep for summer:

1. Cool roofs: Reflect heat, reduce costs

A reflective (or “cool”) roof coating significantly lowers rooftop temperatures by bouncing sunlight away instead of absorbing heat—ideal for older buildings with black tar roofs.

ROI Snapshot:

• Roof temperatures lowered by up to 60°F
• Reduced cooling demand leads to less maintenance and longer lifespan for AC equipment
• Helps meet NYC Local Law 92/94 compliance (required for many new roofs)

2. Window films and shades: Block heat without sacrificing light

Solar-control window films and reflective shades effectively block infrared rays while preserving natural daylight. They're especially valuable for buildings with south- or west-facing windows.

ROI Snapshot:

• Up to 30% reduction in cooling costs for treated areas
• Affordable, minimally disruptive upgrade—often completed within days

3. Landscaping & green infrastructure: Natural cooling, added appeal

Trees, green walls, and rooftop gardens aren't just attractive—they act as natural insulators. Strategically planting trees near windows provides shade and naturally cools surrounding air.

ROI Snapshot:

• Significant temperature reduction in shaded spaces
• Potential eligibility for NYC green infrastructure grants
• Improved curb appeal, resident satisfaction, and property value

4. Air sealing & insulation: Protect your building’s efficiency year-round

Insulating and sealing gaps in walls, ceilings, and around windows or doors keeps hot air out and cool air in during summer—optimizing the effectiveness of existing AC systems.

ROI Snapshot:

• Up to 15% energy savings year-round
• Fewer comfort-related complaints, reducing workload for building management
• Enhanced HVAC efficiency and reduced system strain

5. Smart ventilation: Efficiently move hot air

Installing attic or roof ventilation fans (consider solar-powered options) or energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) efficiently removes heat. When combined with smart thermostats or occupancy sensors, your building gains enhanced overall efficiency.

ROI Snapshot:

• Lower AC load, meaning reduced utility bills
• Improved indoor air quality and comfort
• Potential eligibility for energy efficiency rebates

Bonus: Educate residents for maximum savings

Energy savings multiply when residents are engaged. Share friendly reminders about easy habits—closing blinds during peak sun, using fans effectively, and running appliances during cooler parts of the day. For more tips residents can use right now, check out our guide to in-unit energy savings.

Encourage residents to join programs like GridRewards, which pay participants to reduce electricity use during peak demand events—no special equipment needed. It’s an easy, no-cost way for residents to help the environment and earn rewards.

Take action now—before the heat arrives

Don't wait for the first heatwave to take action. Implementing these energy-saving upgrades now positions your building for immediate comfort improvements, cost savings, and long-term efficiency.

Not sure where to start? Daisy’s team is here to help. We’ll guide you through prioritizing upgrades, securing rebates, and making the process seamless from start to finish.

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