Your Business: Summer Savings and Comfort
Summer heat and humidity can really put the heat on your energy budget. Extreme summer weather can also threaten business operations. Are you prepared? Take steps now to ensure savings, comfort and business continuity all summer long.
Summer heat
Hot, humid weather can put a strain on your cooling system and make your indoor environment less comfortable. Take these measures to optimize system performance and indoor comfort.
- Hire a qualified professional to inspect and clean your cooling system. A tune-up will help spot any problems and ensure your system is operating efficiently.
- Increase building temperatures after hours to avoid wasting energy keeping your empty building comfortable. Optimize savings and convenience by installing smart thermostats, which automatically adjust temperatures based on your operating schedule.
- Keep vents unobstructed by furniture or equipment. This improves air flow and increases cooling system efficiency.
- Check windows and doors for leaks and seal them with caulk and weatherstripping. Seal and insulate ductwork. Air leaking through ducts reduces cooling system efficiency.
- Consult with a qualified insulation contractor to make sure your walls and ceiling are insulated to levels recommended for your climate zone by building energy codes.
Upgrade to heat pumps
If your air conditioning system is older, or in need of repair, consider upgrading to a new energy-efficient system, consider upgrading to an air-source heat pump. Electric heat pumps provide high-efficiency year-round space conditioning. They run more quietly than conventional HVAC systems and produce no onsite emissions. This saves you money while making your indoor environment healthier and more comfortable.
Staying in business
Summer storms and lightning can damage your facility, interrupt operations and endanger staff. Take these steps to make sure your business is prepared.
- Review and update your emergency response plan. The plan should include procedures for building evacuation and crisis communications, as well as business closing and reopening.
- Install power quality protection, such as surge protectors or UPS devices, to safeguard sensitive electronic equipment during summer storms or other power quality events.
- Make sure that you have a reliable source of backup power, such as a generator, available and in working condition. Perform all recommended testing and maintenance procedures.
Now is a great time to get a business energy audit or assessment. A qualified energy professional will perform an inspection of your facility and perform a series of tests to spot signs of energy waste and identify areas for improvement. You'll receive a targeted set of energy-efficiency recommendations that will help you save money and stay comfortable this summer and all year long.
We offer rebates for energy-saving upgrades and all kinds of smart energy tips specifically for businesses. Visit ElectricIdeas.com/Work for more info.
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