Helping business customers save money by becoming more energy-wise is an important part of what we do. We’ve compiled a list of no-cost and low-cost actions business owners can take to save energy and lower operating costs. These energy savings tips can help you and your staff avoid using energy when it’s not absolutely needed.
You may also be eligible for rebates when you upgrade or install new equipment, which saves you even more money.
- Turn off lights when not needed. Install occupancy sensors that automatically turn lights on or off.
- Take advantage of natural daylight. Turn off or dim electric lighting when adequate sunlight is available to illuminate interior space.
- Ensure outdoor lighting is off during the daytime. Use timers, outside motion-detectors, or day/night sensors to control outdoor light fixtures.
- Check air filters in your HVAC system and clean or replace if necessary.
- Adjust thermostats for unoccupied buildings or unoccupied spaces. During non-working hours raise temperature when cooling and lower when heating. Set thermostats at 78º F for cooling in the summer and 68º F for heating in the winter.
- Regularly check the door seals on walk-in coolers and freezers, ovens, refrigerators & freezers, hot food holding cabinets, and steamers. This will help prevent air leakage and will allow your machines to operate less frequently.
- Keep restaurant refrigerators and freezers full. When full, refrigerators use less energy. (Water jugs make good fillers). Load cold items immediately into refrigeration or freezer space.
- Save energy by using night covers on open refrigerated display cases to trap cold air inside and reflect ambient heat back into the store.
- Adjust your computer’s energy settings to make sure your hard drive and monitor go into “sleep” mode when they’re left idle for a few minutes.
- Power down energy consuming electronic appliances and office equipment at the end of the day. Computers, printers and other equipment can draw power even when they are off.
- Inspect all hot water-using fixtures and appliances. Fix leaks, seals, and any other water-related issues.