Tips to Reduce Energy Costs in a Commercial Building
Whether you own your building or lease it, saving money on commercial energy costs is probably high on your priority list. In some cases, the savings can come from establishing policies among your employees; you can also make some physical alterations that will result in less energy usage. New Horizon Construction Services of Groveland, FL, would like to share a few tips for reducing energy costs in your commercial building.
Perform an energy audit
The first step toward decreasing energy waste is finding out where the waste is happening. A thorough energy audit will show you where to start making modifications within your facility.
Grow shady trees outside the building
Trees absorb heat and cold and also block wind. With the summer sun in mind, plant the trees on the side(s) of the building that get the most direct sunlight.
Reduce the need for artificial lighting
If it’s possible, consider adding some skylights to your facility. When placed optimally, skylights can bring no-cost light into your building all day long.
Use LED lighting
Skylights won’t be enough for all your business activities, but LED lighting will be. Energy Star bulbs, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, use only one-quarter of the energy used by incandescent bulbs and last up to 10 times longer. For places where standard lighting is required, you can make them motion-sensitive.
Control heating and cooling
Use a programmable thermostat to regulate heating and cooling systems. Aim for a comfortable environment during work hours, then reduce the output during dormant periods. Some experts say you can save 30% on energy bills with a programmable thermostat at your commercial building.
Check the insulation
Proper insulation in a business facility can cut heating and cooling costs by 10%. Maintain sufficient quality insulation in the walls and ceilings and around electrical outlets, ductwork and pipes.
Look at the roof and windows
Roofs and windows at commercial buildings are major escape areas for conditioned air. A variety of energy-efficient window and sliding door systems are available today. Have your roof inspected to find out if modifications are needed.
Keep all equipment maintained
Any commercial system or piece of machinery that uses energy should be properly maintained and serviced. Worn-out or outdated HVAC systems, single-unit air conditioners, boilers, furnaces, manufacturing machinery, kitchen appliances, lighting systems and other equipment can cost big money to run when they’re not in excellent shape.
Get employees involved
Develop incentives, such as department energy-savings contests, to make employees more energy-conscious. You can share the heating and electric bills with your workers so they can see how much it really takes to keep the business (and their jobs) rolling along.
Here are a few more strategies you can consider to help further reduce energy costs in your commercial facility:
- Install a solar energy system
- Invest in energy-saving kitchen and breakroom appliances
- Upgrade to an instantaneous hot water heater
- Retrofit your HVAC system before replacing it – this can reduce energy expenditure by 35%, according to the Department of Energy
- Program all computers and other electronics that run all the time to go into hibernation or sleep mode during off hours
We’re Florida’s construction & renovation specialists
If you’re planning to build a new commercial facility or renovate a current one in the greater Orlando, FL, area, New Horizon Construction Services will deliver the results you require. Learn more about our services by calling (407) 574-2164. You can also reach out with our simple contact form.
