Heated Debate Over AC

Have you ever walked past a retail store and felt the cool air rushing out? The first reaction – especially on a sweltering day – is likely gratitude; it certainly feels good. But did you ever stop to think about how much energy is being wasted?

Shopper Christopher Moline noticed that the doors of a Rave clothing store were wide open during a July visit to the Bowie (Md.) Town Center. According to an article in The Washington Post, the thought of all the wasted energy steamed Moline to the point that he posted videos of wide open doors throughout the mall on YouTube. His videos have raised some questions about retailers’ “open-door” policies and how they contrast with energy savings and cost-reduction initiatives.

The Post reports that, according to one power company estimate, leaving the doors open while running the air conditioner can increase electricity use by 20 to 25 percent, depending on location, weather and humidity. (In New York City, retailers who drain the grid by air conditioning sidewalks can be fined.)

Retailers acknowledge the wasted energy, but many say it’s a trade-off made in the name of appearing more welcoming. One retailer describes the open doors as “more inviting,” while another said open doors make it easier for parents with strollers to get inside.