The Basics of Energy-Efficient Commercial Buildings | Teems Electric

If you own, manage or work in a commercial building, you know that they draw a lot of power. Finding ways to keep both your energy use and your costs low is important in order to be as efficient as possible.

There are lots of simple switches and choices you can make in order to maximize your efficiency and keep your electric bills low. You can even get the rest of your staff involved in order to ensure that everything possible is being done.

And as an added bonus, being more efficient can also help you stay safe from potential electric fire hazards.

Energy-Efficient Benefits

While lower bills are a huge benefit, there are plenty of other reasons to make some energy-efficient choices for your building. When you use less energy, you are contributing to lower loads on the community electrical grid, which can help reduce power outages. Energy-efficient products are also less stressing on the environment.

Lighting plays a huge role in our lives, but did you know it can actually contribute to how productive (or unproductive) we are? The proper lighting in your office can lead to lower stress levels for your staff and more energy and focus. By allowing for as much natural lighting as possible, you can help keep your staff happier, too, especially in the colder months when many of us are stuck indoors.

Along with the fringe benefit of more focused and engaged employees, there are often tax breaks for companies that make energy-efficient choices. Commercial buildings can cost a lot to even just turn the lights on, so every cost-effective measure you can take matters!

Energy-Efficient Tips

On top of some really great benefits, going energy-efficient doesn’t have to break the bank. A few low-cost upgrades and some training with your staff can make a huge difference.

Start by working with your staff on unplugging and turning off as much as possible. Computers, small appliances and floor lamps can all be unplugged nightly in order to eliminate energy draws when they are not in use.

Something as simple as turning lights off when you leave a room can also make a big impact. For rooms that see a lot of short-term use throughout the day, like a conference room or other shared space, consider adding motion sensors. That can help ensure that lights are only on when needed without having to constantly remind employees to turn them off.

Make the switch to LEDs if you haven’t already as well. Not only do these pull less energy, they last much longer.

A programmable thermostat that is Wi-Fi-enabled is another low-cost way to keep your heating and cooling regulated. This kind of thermostat can be particularly helpful if you operate a building that sees down time with no staff. Keeping up with regular maintenance on your HVAC or boiler is also crucial for avoiding potential breakdowns that could lead to costly repairs.

Spend some time working on your building’s energy efficiency. You will see the benefits in your staff, your community and your bills.

Want to learn more ways to be energy-efficient, or schedule regular maintenance on your boiler? Contact us and we will get your business taken care of.