Winter is just around the corner! In Florida’ where MaintenX is headquartered, this means big energy savings for most businesses. However, our locations further north can expect more expensive heating costs as the snow starts to fall and chilly days become more and more frequent. If you struggle with higher energy costs in the winter, here are a few ways your facility can save:
Keep the blinds open
On sunny winter days, you can naturally heat your office space by opening the blinds and curtains as much as possible. This is more helpful for smaller offices and businesses where plenty of windows are built-in, but even larger facilities can benefit from individual offices using sunlight as a heat source.
Seal doors and windows
Drafty air comes in from doors and windows every time they’re opened, but did you realize that small cracks under doors and windows equally contribute to colder air inside your facility. You may not feel the rush of a cool breeze, but the slow leaking of heated air out of your facility can make it more difficult for your HVAC system to properly regulate the temperature. Call your MaintenX team to install rubber seals around doors and windows to ensure your heater doesn’t have to work so hard.
Use LED lights
LED lights are the most energy-efficient lighting option available. While it’s wise to use them year-round it is especially important during the winter as the days get shorter. Plus, if your office or business plans to decorate for the holidays, you don’t want to add excess expenses by using high-energy lighting for your decor.
Close vents in storage closets and unused spaces.
Do you have a storage shed, vacant office, or other room in your facility that doesn’t need to be heated 24/7? If so, reduce your energy usage simply by closing the vents to that area. This will redirect heated air to the areas where it is most needed and is simple to reverse.
Install a smart thermostat.
Your office doesn’t need to be heated optimally while it’s closed or in certain areas that aren’t used daily. Save on heating bills by using a programmable thermostat that will adjust temperatures as needed. You can program your thermostat to start warming an hour before opening or can adjust temperatures based on different “zones” in your facility with greater use.
With these simple tips, you can save 10% or more on your winter energy bills. For more cost-saving maintenance tips and ideas, visit our Resource Center.