Energy efficiency is a goal that is often thrown around without tangible ideas of how to get there. Thanks to a recent content contribution, we now have some actionable measures to grow one step closer.
Plumbing/Water Conservation
– Make sure water heaters are insulated
– Use low-flow toilets and other fixtures
– Look for and repair leaks
Heating/Cooling
– Insulate all HVAC ductwork
– Open blinds on south-facing windows in winter to allow more heat from sunlight
– Use programmable thermostats
– Ensure HVAC system receives regular maintenance for best efficiency
– Use weather stripping along windows and doors
Office Equipment
– Unplug or shut down equipment when not in use
– Use power-saving modes on equipment
– Replace desktop computers with laptops
– Replace CRT monitors with LED or LCD monitors
– Look for Energy Star-rated equipment
– Use digital documents rather than printing them
– Always photocopy on both sides of paper
Lighting
– Turn off light at the end of the day
– Use natural lighting whenever possible
– Use motion sensors or dimmers on lights
– Replace incandescent bulbs with LEDs or CFL lights
– Use talk lighting instead of lighting the entire room
Company Vehicles
– Switch to hybrid or alternative-fuel fleets
– Encourage carpooling
– Turn off engines when parked even for short periods to reduce idling
– Conserve fuel by driving less aggressively
Employee Education
– Use teleconferencing to reduce business travel
– Allow employees to work from home on occasion
– Use coffee mugs instead of disposable cups
– Encourage using mass transit or carpooling for commuting
– Institute competitions that recognize or reward employees who save the most energy
About the Guest Author
Steve Fountaine is Owner of Premiere Works, which serves the Washington, D.C., southern Maryland and northern Virginia areas. Services include commercial painting, construction, contracting, build-outs, office renovations and more.