Soaring electricity bills are a perennial problem faced by businesses. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to combat this dilemma. Take a look at the suggestions indicated below to get you started on the journey to responsible energy use:
Switch to LED lights
It is time to replace incandescent bulbs with LED lights. Aside from using less energy, the latter also last longer than the former. Good quality LED lights can last up to 50,000 to 100,000 hours. As a result, you don’t need to change it often, which lowers maintenance costs.
Install light and motion sensors
Consider having light and motion/occupancy sensors installed in the office. The good news is that they are already being used in smart homes and buildings. These energy-saving devices will be a worthy addition to the building’s HVAC system. It would be advisable to install them in areas such as the boardroom, sleeping quarters, and restrooms. You will need to hire mechanical engineering professionals for their installation.
- Light sensors can sense the amount of natural light that enters an area. They use this information to regulate a room’s lighting.
- Motion detectors can estimate the number of people occupying a room. They can then send a signal to the control system. For example, when a huge number of people congregate in an area, the cooling will be increased. If fewer people are using the room, the necessary temperature adjustment will also be made.
Energy conservation practices
Simple actions such as turning off the lights, switching off the air conditioner, and shutting down the computer and other office equipment when they are not being used can significantly reduce your energy consumption and lower the cost of the electricity bill. Educate the employees about the significance of energy conservation and its impact on both the environment and the business. You can do this by conducting seminars, putting up posters containing infographics around the workplace, and sending newsletters via email.
Pay attention to insulation
As much as possible, the insulation of the office building should be airtight. Insulation is necessary to lessen thermal energy transmission through the gaps between ceilings, walls, and floors. A properly insulated building will require less cooling and heating. Thus, it can be an efficient energy-saving measure.
There are many types of insulation to choose from. Use the climate in your area as a guide to selecting the material that will work best.
Some of the common types include the following:
- Loose-fill insulation. This is an affordable option that was created using recycled materials such as recycled glass and recycled newsprint. It is poured or blown into the joist cavities of walls.
- Rigid fiberboard. It is made from mineral wool or fiberglass. This is typically used for regions with a warm climate.
- Foam board. It is composed of polyurethane or polystyrene. Even though it is relatively thin, its effectivity is almost double compared to other materials with the same thickness.
Nowadays, there is more awareness of the global impact of climate change. As researchers help us learn more about the catastrophic effects of global warming, more people realize the importance of adopting environmentally conscious practices. It will not only help us save money but also protect the planet we call home.