This article is sponsored by PECO, an Exelon Company.
With inflation on the rise, many small business owners are feeling an extra burden trying to keep costs down. While they may be easy to overlook, there are some essential energy-saving tips that could significantly help your business's bottom line and also support the environment.
Here are ways small business owners can save money on their energy bills right now.
Maintain your HVAC system
Keeping your heating, ventilation and air conditioning units in top working order is of paramount importance. Luckily, this does not have to come with an exorbitant price tag. Regular maintenance can help lower energy costs. In addition, changing air filters and cleaning coils can ensure the units aren't using excess energy to get through dust and grime. Routine check-ups can also help avoid having to replace an older system prematurely.
Install a smart meter
As opposed to a traditional energy meter, which must be read manually on-site, a smart meter provides instant, wireless communication with an energy provider. This allows the utility company to accurately measure energy usage and bill accordingly, and may even help restore power after an outage. Smart meters also enable business owners to analyze their energy use and identify high-use periods down to the hour.
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Put a stop to 'vampire' devices
Just because a device isn't in use doesn't mean it's not drawing power from an outlet. Standby power, also known as vampire power, is energy leaked to those appliances that are turned off but plugged in all the time. These devices don't consume a lot of power in a day, but those costs can add up over the course of a year. Unplug electronics, computers, heaters, and kitchen equipment overnight or while not in use.
Get into the natural light
The sun is your friend so take advantage of natural lighting. If possible, install windows and skylights to use natural daytime light instead of electrical lighting. At the least, move desks and workstations to areas supported with natural light. Using free and natural light is one of the best and easiest ways to save cash.
Get an energy assessment
Don't rely on half measures and gut instincts to reduce your energy costs. Call in reinforcements with an expert analysis by your energy provider, which can identify no- and low-cost improvements you can make to your energy systems. The energy audit will also help with next steps to ensure your savings continue well into the future.
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