How to Save Energy at the Office This Holiday Season
Holidays at the office often mean closing from late December until the new year. However, an empty building does not mean energy is not being used. The good news is that you can easily save energy and stay on top of your utility costs in the new year. Use the following tips to save energy at the office over the holidays.
Reduce Phantom Energy
Phantom energy occurs when unused devices remain plugged in, such as computers and appliances. Remind your employees to turn off their computers and power strips before leaving the office. If you are worried about losing important information, talk to your IT expert first. Printers, scanners, fax machines, and certain kitchen appliances should also be unplugged.
Adjust the Thermostat
You do not need to heat an empty building, so be sure to adjust the thermostat before the last person heads home for the holidays. It is recommended to set it a few degrees lower than usual. If you are looking to upgrade your office, a smart thermostat is a great investment. You can easily adjust the temperature from your smartphone, and some thermostats even switch to an eco-friendly mode when you are not in the office.
Switch to Energy-Efficient LEDs
Switching to energy-efficient LEDs is a simple change that can make a big difference in the office. You can switch out the lightbulbs on the last day of work before your holiday break. LED bulbs create a brighter office without using too much energy. They also last longer than incandescent lightbulbs, so you do not have to worry about buying and changing the lightbulbs often.
Seal the Windows
If you notice a draft leaking into your office, seal the window frames with tape until you can have them repaired. Failure to seal a drafty window could result in the HVAC system in your office working overtime to heat the space, even if you are not present. You can save both energy and money by sealing those windows and keeping the cold air out of the office.
Install Smart Lighting
While turning off all the lights before leaving is ideal for saving energy, it may not feel secure after the sun goes down. One idea is to have motion-sensor lighting installed to create a safer environment at work. You can also install timers that automatically turn on at dusk and off at dawn. This way, you can stay safe when you are at the office and discourage trespassers when you are out of the office.
There are several ways to save energy in the office over the holidays, from switching to LED bulbs to installing smart features. When you are ready to hire an electrician to help with commercial installations, contact Rush Electric of Memphis, Tennessee.
