Save Energy with These Tips This Spring

Businesses can now save money on energy while also adopting more environmentally friendly practices. When your company decides to invest in energy-efficient initiatives, even small changes can add up to big savings. The following measures will help your business save money on operating costs, from switching to LED bulbs (and turning them off when not in use) to cleaning the vents to allow smoother airflow:

• Use The Off Switch- Businesses that want to save money on electricity should teach their employees to turn off as many lights and appliances as possible. When not in use, turn off lights, copy machines, computers, printers, and other electronics. It's not always possible to turn off computers in a busy office, but leaving them on overnight when no one is using them is not a good idea. Look for energy-efficient electronics and office equipment that can be used with power management and sleep modes if turning off the equipment isn't an option.

• Switch To LED Light Bulbs- Many businesses can save money on energy costs over time by switching to light-emitting diode (LED) or fluorescent light bulbs instead of traditional incandescent bulbs. These bulbs are more expensive up front, but they last much longer and use a lot less energy than regular bulbs. In less-used areas, motion lighting can also be used to save energy while still providing adequate lighting.

• HVAC Maintenance- Maintain your HVAC system on a regular basis to keep it running efficiently. When an HVAC system isn't properly maintained, it may have to work harder to heat and cool your building, not to mention the potential impact on air quality that a malfunctioning HVAC system can have. Replace your air filters on a regular basis, and have your air ducts cleaned to remove any accumulated dust or debris. Maintaining your HVAC system can help you save money on your utility bill by improving indoor air quality and increasing system efficiency.

• Use Ceiling Fans And Window Screens- You will save money on your energy bills if you can avoid using your air conditioning system on cooler days. Ceiling fans can help businesses save money on cooling costs. Ceiling fans that rotate counter-clockwise circulate cool air, allowing you to raise your thermostat a few degrees and still stay comfortable. Turn your ceiling fans clockwise when the colder months arrive to help push warm air downward and combat the chill. Using this simple yet effective trick, you may be able to lower your thermostat and save money on winter heating costs.

• Install A Smart Thermostat- Equipping your business with a smart thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to save on electricity bills and other energy costs. A smart thermostat, like motion-detecting lights, has features that limit energy consumption during off-peak hours. Your smart thermostat can adjust itself when employees leave for the day. Climate control is simplified with smart thermostats, allowing you to focus on more important daily tasks. Energy audits are now being conducted by some businesses to determine how much energy they are wasting. Because they are designed to identify specific focus areas for more effective energy management, energy audits are a great place to start building your energy-conservation plan.

If your business has been damaged by fire, mold, or any other disaster, call Restoration 1 and we'll help you get back up and running.