Temperatures outside are starting to warm up. It’s not too early to take steps to make sure your business will be comfortable without wasting energy — or spending extra money. The first step is to look at the overall ambient needs and uses of your office. Asking yourself (and your staff) these questions can be a good way to determine if you are truly ready. Plus, the questions can help you choose the best ways to save energy at work.
Is the air conditioner always on during the summer? Consider increasing the temperature by a few degrees or turning off the air conditioner when the office is closed.
Do you have a programmable thermostat? These thermostats enable you to reduce the temperature when no one is around. Keeping your office temperature one degree lower in the winter and one degree higher in the summer can reduce the power your HVAC system uses by up to 10%.
Have you inspected your HVAC systems this year? Annual maintenance is the standard for most equipment. ENERGY STAR®’s maintenance checklist offers tips to help ensure you continue to lower your business energy costs.
When is the last time you changed your air filter? Check the filter in your HVAC equipment regularly. If it looks dirty, change it. A dirty filter reduces air flow and makes the system work hard, which wastes energy.
Have you sealed your heating and cooling ducts? Sealing and insulating ducts can improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system by as much as 20%.
Have you had a Business Energy Consultation? A DTE Energy specialist will visit and provide a personalized report that shows where your business uses the most energy and things you can do to lower it.
Is your office equipment energy efficient? Before you buy or lease office electronics, check the ENERGY STAR® rating. A good score can save you money and help manage your energy costs, especially in the long run.
Are you using energy efficient light bulbs? Switch out your regular incandescent bulbs with energy efficient bulbs such as compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) or LEDs.
Do you use a fan? You can reduce your energy usage in the workplace simply by running fans in offices, warehouses, showrooms and kitchens. Fans keep air flowing so your HVAC unit can run more efficiently.
Do you power down your computers? If computers are not being used, have your team get in the habit of shutting them down before they leave. Turning off and unplugging energy efficient coffee makers, toasters and similar appliances at the end of the day is a simple way to cut back.
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