Getting your business ready for cooler weather

Looking for ways to keep your employees and customers comfortable once colder weather hits? Here are five quick tips to help manage energy costs and keep your business comfortable during the fall and winter months.

1. Seal Any Leaks and Gaps Around the Workplace
   Did you know that leaky ducts can allow up to 30 percent of the air to escape? Before the cold weather hits, examine accessible heating ductwork for leaks and seal them with mastic tape. Add caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps around doors and windows to save energy.
2. Maintain Your Heating System
   As summer winds down, have your system cleaned and inspected by a qualified professional to make sure it is running at the highest efficiency level possible. Check all air filters regularly and replace them throughout the season as needed. Dirty or clogged filters reduce air flow, increasing energy consumption.
3. Make Sure Your Insulation is Adequate
   Insulation is your primary defense against heat loss in the winter. If your building is well-insulated, less heat will escape during colder months, making your workplace more comfortable. To control energy costs, have a professional insulation installer evaluate the existing insulation in your building. If your business needs additional insulation, PSO offers rebates to help you start saving.
4. Upgrade Your Lighting System
   Interior and exterior lighting systems are often the largest contributor of electricity consumption for businesses. By switching to ENERGY STAR® certified LED lighting, you can reduce energy usage. LED bulbs use around 75 percent less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and typically last 10-25 times longer than conventional bulbs.
5. Update Your Thermostat
   Having a programmable thermostat installed is one of the most effective ways to reduce heating costs. During low-occupancy hours, set the thermostat several degrees lower compared to peak times for significant energy savings. You can also upgrade to a smart thermostat that monitors and automatically adjusts the temperature based on the time of day or your business's hours.