Five Tips To Get Your Business Ready For Winter

Winter is right around the corner. And depending on how cold it gets, a higher bill could be, too. While you can purchase new energy-efficient HVAC systems to reap nice energy savings for your business, there are some more cost-effective ways to keep heating bills in check.
 
Here they are:
 

• Seal leaks. Check for air leaks around doors and windows. If you feel cold air coming through – or worse, see light through cracks – seal up those leaks. Hardware and home improvement stores sell weatherization kits with caulking and other materials that make it easy to patch up air leaks. Weatherstripping for doors typically costs less than $15. Also check for holes around duct and pipe inlets and in walls. Warm air leakage may account for 30 percent or more of winter heating costs.

• Use window coverings. Drafty windows are among the biggest culprits of heat escape in the wintertime. There are a variety of films and coverings that can help prevent that, however. These include thermal curtains, hot air sealed window plastic and insulated window shades. Make sure any coverings stay on at least overnight, when it’s coldest outside. Uncover windows that get a lot of sun during the day to use natural sunlight to help heat your business.

• Change filters at least monthly. Changing air filters once a month helps ensure your air stays clean and running efficiently in your business.

• Use ceiling fans. Ceiling fans can help limit heat usage by pushing down and circulating rising warm air. In the winter, ceiling fans should rotate clockwise (and counterclockwise in the summer months).

• Install a programmable thermostat. Optimize savings and convenience with automating temperature settings. It is recommended to set your thermostat at 68°F in the winter. This can minimize energy use and maintain employee and customer comfort.