Don’t let winter wreak havoc on your facility’s energy bill

Winter can wreak havoc on your facility’s energy bill. Taking steps to winterize your building can help you save energy and money. Some tips:

Seal out the air: Install door sweeps and weather stripping to fill gaps in frames. Insulate windows using blinds, curtains, drapes at night when buildings aren’t being used. Pay close attention to small air leaks on the outside of the building’s exterior—identify and seal them.

Make large spaces smaller: Heating less space leads to savings. Divide larger spaces with curtain walls. This will create smaller areas that can be heated quickly and evenly. The curtain walls can be repositioned in other seasons.

Install a smart thermostat: This type of thermostat will allow you to use heat only when you need to. Temperatures can be set and modified based on hours of operation, which will mean energy savings when the facility is closed. The most advanced thermostats can factor weather, preferences, and other factors. Many even work in conjunction with occupancy sensors to make sure you aren’t heating empty offices/spaces.

Get ahead of the game: If you are planning new construction projects or renovations, take advantage of energy saving projects and innovations. There are numerous rebates and incentives available for lighting, HVAC, and a list of energy efficiency projects. Sometimes even small changes qualify like changing lightbulbs, which may not save you from the winter cold, but will save you money.

Get a little help from your friends: Every facility is unique. There are so many options to consider when implementing an energy efficiency plan that works for you. An energy audit can provide you with key information to help you develop a strategy. SIMPLICITY can help you analyze your data, inspect your facility, and provide recommendations on how you can improve the energy efficiency of your facility.