Saving money while running a business is imperative to its operation. Making your business more energy efficient is a good way to help offset the cost of running the business. There are several things to do to help with the saving of money on energy. Being aware of where energy is being wasted and taking steps to fix the problems will be the first step you can take to becoming more energy efficient.

Heating and Cooling

This is one of the biggest energy cost that a business has. Keeping filters changed needs to be followed on a regular basis. Turning the thermostat up one degree in the summer and one down in the winter will see an increase in savings of approximately 8 percent. Furnaces and AC units can be replaced with a PTAC unit from PTAC Inc. You can also take advantage of solar power to help with power costs. Installing variable-speed fans can also help save on energy consumption.

Compare Electric Rates

There are 3 types of rates for electricity that can be picked from for your business. Choosing the wrong rate can be quite costly for the expenses your business will concur. There are fixed, variable, and deemed rates when picking what you will pay for kilowatts of electricity. Suppliers will charge different rates for kilowatt hours, so finding the right company will save your business money on energy costs.

Insulation

Having a building properly insulated can go a long way on saving money on energy costs. Adding a layer of blown-in insulation in the ceiling of attic of the building is one of the easiest thing to do and most cost effective. Air leaks around doors, windows, and exterior outlets should be sealed. Either replace old windows or use a high grade window film to cut down on energy loss.

Using heavy curtains or drapes can also help insulate windows and prevent heat loss. The water tank should be upgraded to an energy saving type or insulated better. Duct work should be cleaned on the inside, sealed, and insulated to save on energy loss.

Lighting

Old incandescent type bulbs should be replaced with energy efficient ones. Motion sensing detectors should be installed so lights go off automatically when no one is in the room. Exit signs should be replaced with high efficiency LED models for more energy savings. Use low wattage bulbs for lights that are always on. Using a 15 watt bulb instead of a 75 watt can save up to 80 percent on energy costs. If you can replace them with LED lights, the savings could amount to even more.

Install skylights if possible. Modern skylights are designed to let light in and keep heat from escaping. Natural sunlight is also healthier for the body and will create a better work environment. You can also lower the light fixtures to increase available lighting.

Computers

Turn off the computer on the weekends and at night. If the computer has to be left on, at least turn off the monitor. Don’t use a screen saver. Switching to laptops can save up to 90 percent of the energy over a desktop model. Using an ink-jet type printer over a laser printer will also save close to 90 percent.

Saving energy in your business can be done in a variety of ways. Sometimes there will be an initial investment, but it can pay for itself over a period of time. Careful planning and organizing management of time can also play a big part in energy savings.