At-work checklist
Regardless of the type of energy service we provide to you, the following suggestions can help you manage your energy costs.
Air conditioning/heating
- Update temperature settings to account for fewer occupants.
- Heat or cool only in-use areas.
- Confirm exhaust and make-air units are operating only if required (e.g., kitchen hoods).
- Remember to adjust smart thermostats—in most cases, you can even do this remotely.
- Change filters.
- Turn off ceiling fan when leaving the room. Fans cool people, not rooms, by creating a wind chill effect.
Water heating
- Check all fixtures including faucets, toilets, fountains, etc. Even a small drip can add up over time.
- Change water heater temperatures if safe and feasible.
- Adjust swimming pool temperature and circulation pump schedules while not being used.
Building envelope
- When using air conditioning, check that all windows are completely closed, and identify and plug air leaks.
- In fair weather, open windows as safe and practicable for natural ventilation.
- In hot weather, close blinds and curtains during the day to help counteract heat from sunlight.
- Insulate under/around exterior doors if needed.
Lighting
- Turn off lights not needed.
- Turn off incandescent or halogen bulbs.
- Install LEDs in lamps or fixtures you intend to leave on.
- Check lighting timers or scheduling to reduce lighting when possible.
- Double-check exterior lighting and signs.
Appliances
- Turn off or change refrigerator and freezer temperature settings to the extent possible and safe.
- Turn off unused appliances, such as coffee makers.
- Consolidate refrigerators and freezers, turning off any that are not needed.
- Inspect, re-calibrate, and clean appliances for maximum efficiency when you return to normal.
- Implement a startup/shutdown plan to make sure you are using only the equipment that you need, when you need it. When machines are not performing useful work, it costs you money.
Digital/phantom load
- Turn off computers, digital devices, televisions, power adapters/chargers and other items plugged into power strips that don’t need to be.