Ten Quick Tips to Save Energy at Work

Most of us do a good job of saving energy at home. But many businesses buy more energy than they need because they don't take simple steps to conserve.

"Most of the following tips have little or no up-front cost," says WEMC Commercial/Industrial Account Executive Scott Walker. "The ones that do cost a little, like programmable thermostats and energy efficient lighting, quickly pay for themselves."

"Not only can these measures add to your bottom line; they may also improve the comfort inside your business," continues Walker. "That puts customers in a better mood."

Try these tips and call Walton EMC if you need more information:

• Use efficient lighting. Replace old incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents (CF). Besides saving electricity, CF bulbs produce less heat that the air conditioner ends up removing from the building. Change old exit signs to LED signs that use up to 40 times less energy and go 25 years between bulb changes.

• Get control of lighting. Install automatic timers to regulate lights not needed after business hours and make sure existing timers are set properly. Turn off lights when not in use. Make sure it's convenient for workers to turn off lights with properly located switches.

• Give the thermostat some attention. Consider a programmable thermostat to turn heating and cooling down after business hours. Guard against thermostat tampering or frequent adjustment with secure boxes. Make sure thermostats are not influenced by frequently opened doors or direct sunshine.

• Keep the heating and cooling system clean. Change filters regularly and have servicemen service the unit and clean the unit's coils twice a year. Make sure outdoor units are free of debris and shrubbery.

• Seal ductwork. Leaky ducts can waste 20 to 30 percent of the cooling you're paying for.

• Check the water heater. If all it's used for is washing hands, turn the temperature down to 110 degrees.

• Clean refrigeration equipment. Make sure coils on water fountains, walk-in freezers and coolers are free from dust and debris.

• Use power management settings for office equipment and computers. Choose equipment with the Energy Star rating. Turn off computer monitors when not in use; screen savers save the monitor but not electricity.

• Check insulation. The areas above suspended ceilings frequently have no insulation. If the ceiling is insulated, it may have been moved by servicemen doing maintenance work.

• Get rid of openings. Seal openings, cracks and gaps in walls, around doors and where pipes or wires enter the building.