The winter season is very costly for a business’ gas and electricity budget. Not only is significantly more energy required to handle the dropping temperatures, but increased gas and electricity consumption can also drive up rates—especially during peak hours.
Here at Broker Online Exchange, we’re especially aware of changing gas and electricity prices, as well as the savings that are possible through smart energy management. As a part of our innovative EnergyEngine platform, we provide the tools and resources you need to add energy management to your portfolio of energy broker services. To help your clients lower their energy usage this season, here are 6 useful tips you can share to help them properly manage and reduce their winter energy consumption:
1. Use LED Light Bulbs
Did you know a traditional light bulb uses substantially more energy than an LED bulb? For each traditional light bulb in a business or home, an LED bulb uses a tenth of that bulb’s monthly energy. When viewing this disparity in the context of an entire business, it’s easy to see why LED bulbs are worth the investment.
2. Mitigate Air Leaks
Many buildings—especially older ones—have small air leaks. Over the long term, these leaks can waste significant gas and electricity. Their most common locations are near windows and doors, so run your hand around the edge of these spaces to feel for any leaks. If you find one, you’ll want to seal it, either by installing a newer window or with a store-bought sealing substance. While installing new windows may sound expensive, they can pay for themselves with the energy savings you’ll experience after a few years. Furthermore, they’ll add to your property’s value.
3. Replace your Furnace
Furnaces aren’t designed to last forever. Most need to be replaced after 10-12 years, so if your furnace is nearing that time frame, consider replacing it soon. A new furnace will save significant energy, and eventually pay for itself.
4. Service your Furnace
Your furnace might not be due for replacing, but that doesn’t mean it is operating efficiently. In addition to changing your filter monthly, schedule regular servicing with your local HVAC company. The energy savings can lead to major efficiency gains.
5. Shades and Blinds
Blinds, shades, and other window coverings can cut down your energy costs at a surprising rate. Open the shades during the day to capture heat from natural sunlight, and close them at night to provide added insulation. Thick and opaque window covers work best.
6. Thermostat Programming
Smart energy consumers will leverage a programmable thermostat to lower temperatures when they are no longer inside their place of business. However, be sure to keep the temperature above 60 degrees. Otherwise, you could potentially damage items in your business.
Advising your clients to take these easy steps is just the first step to becoming their trusted energy management advisor. Join BOX today to gain access to EnergyEngine and all the resources we provide to help you expand and grow your energy broker business.
