Whether it's adjusting the heat or seeking out the advice of an expert,
you can be in control of how much gas your business consumes. Nearly
everyone can reduce the amount of natural gas they use by taking a few
simple and affordable steps. Here are some helpful tips for your business:
Heating & Cooling
During the winter months, keep your thermostat between 65-70°.
Dial your thermostat down during the hours your business is closed.
Install a programmable thermostat so that you can have the
temperature dialed down automatically during the hours you are closed.
You can even use it to warm your place up before you open for business.
Not only will it be more comfortable, savings can be dramatic.
Have your heating and air conditioning serviced prior to both
heating and cooling seasons. Your system may last years longer and your
chances of an emergency break-down can be limited with regular
maintenance.
Open blinds or drapes to let the sun in on sunny winter days. At
night, close them to help insulate your windows from the cold. In the
summer use curtains or drapes to prevent the summer heat from getting
inside.
Don't heat space you don't use. Close the vents and shut the doors
for less-used rooms and open them up when you need them. By minimizing
the space you actually heat, you can save significantly over heating
your whole business.
Warm air quickly rises out of your comfort zone, which leaves you
down in the cold. Direct your heating registers so that they're blowing
horizontally across the floor instead of straight up. If you have
ceiling fans, set them in the summer so that you feel a breeze coming
down (usually counterclockwise). In the winter, reverse the fan's
direction and operate it at a low speed to bring your warm, heated air
down where you need it.
Use fans to help with air movement. Fans can make your business feel
more comfortable and delay the use of turning up your furnace or air
conditioning — saving energy.
Use weather stripping and caulking wherever it is needed. This will
keep the heat and cool air from leaving the building.
Change or clean your furnace filter. You should do this at least
once per month. Clogged filters inhibit airflow and make your furnace
work harder.
Insulate your business following the proper building codes and
guidelines. Proper insulation helps the building stay cool in the summer
and warm in the winter.
If possible, plant trees around your business to help with shade in
the summer.
Office Equipment
Always buy ENERGY STAR® qualified office products for your
business. The ENERGY STAR label will help you find the most energy-efficient
computers, printers, copiers and other equipment and appliances.
Water
Buy a water heater blanket and follow the instructions to wrap it
tightly around your water heater. It's an inexpensive way to help your
water heater run more efficiently.
Reduce consumption of hot water by installing water flow restrictors
on your faucets.
Fix leaks to help conserve energy and save money.
Set water temperatures at 110-120 degrees to prevent scalding and
save energy.
Additional Information
Business.gov,
will help guide you whether you own your building or are a tenant, you
typically need lighting, heating, air conditioning, power for office
equipment, and other services to stay in business.
