Colder weather sometimes mean higher energy bills. Here are five quick tips to help manage energy costs and keep your business comfortable during the fall and winter months.
- Seal Any Leaks and Gaps Around the Workplace
Did you know that leaky ducts can allow up to 30 percent of the air to escape? Before the cold weather hits, examine accessible heating ductwork for leaks and seal them with mastic tape. Add caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps around doors and windows to save energy.
- Maintain Your Heating System
As summer winds down, have your system cleaned and inspected by a qualified professional to make sure it is operating correctly. Check all air filters regularly and replace them throughout the season, as needed. Dirty or clogged filters reduce air flow, increasing energy consumption.
- Make Sure Your Insulation is Adequate
Poor insulation reduces heating system performance. If your building is well-insulated, less heat will escape during the winter, making your workplace more comfortable. In order to control energy costs, have a professional insulation installer or builder evaluate the existing insulation in your building.
- Upgrade Your Lighting System
Interior and exterior lighting systems are often the largest contributor of electricity consumption for businesses. By switching to ENERGY STAR® certified LED lighting, you can reduce energy consumption. LED bulbs use around 75 percent less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and typically last 10-25 times longer than conventional bulbs. - Update Your Thermostat
Having a programmable thermostat installed in a building is one of the most effective ways to reduce heating costs. During low-occupancy hours, set the thermostat several degrees lower compared to peak times to make significant energy savings. You can also upgrade to a smart thermostat that monitors and adjusts the temperature based on the time of day or your business’s hours.
Avoiding Payment Spikes
AEP Ohio’s Average Monthly Payment (AMP) Plan evens out payments throughout the year to account for seasonal spikes in usage. Bills adjust on a 12 month rolling average and change only slightly each month, making bills more predictable. Give us a call at (800) 672-2231 for more information.
