Planning for Energy Savings

The challenge today is how to plan for greater cost savings.  It seems there are always things unaccounted for challenging the budget.    As we manage or renovate facility budgets be conscious of new technologies that can help save money.

• Plan for passive cooling measures in new construction and renovations
• Look for gaps in buildings that need to be sealed through better insulation- Do an energy audit
• Review your monthly utility bills and seek fuller explanations for increase/decrease
• Research best practices to optimize user comfort and minimize utility costs.
• Install preventive maintenance practices; for every $1 invested in preventive maintenance $3 is saved.
• Change lighting fixtures to more efficient LED or CFL.  It’s the law now.
• Clean your gutters and direct water away from the structure
• Use Energy Star appliances.
• Clean or change filters once per month on air conditioners and furnaces
• Place heat resistant radiator reflectors between the exterior wall and radiator.
• Check air ducts for leaks and seal and insulate air ducts in unheated spaces.
• Consider passive solar considerations such as roof overhangs, window coatings, roofs designed to reflect heat, and exterior wall materials.
• Use programmable thermostats and avoid setting the thermostat and colder temperatures than normal when you turn on the system.
• Consider landscape installations that will provide shade or provide wind breaks; shade trees, evergreens, and trellises can be employed to reduce temperatures between 3-6°.
• Consider installation of tankless water heaters
• Install double pane windows with high performance glass.