How To Reduce Energy Losses In Your Business

Energy is one of the biggest cost aspects in any building. Various studies have been conducted in this area and it has been found out that energy costs can make up to 25 per cent of a building's total expenditure. Energy costs have also come to the fore in terms of importance for business owners, since they are being faced with a need to adhere to customer demands for creating greener demands and even governments of many countries are developing stringent rules and standards to cut down their carbon footprint. Looking into the prevention of energy losses in one's business is useful for the bottom line of the business and as well as for the world at large.

Mapping Energy Use

It is good to start with mapping the energy use of a building. Most businesses use up energy in two areas - lighting and HVAC, or heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Lighting in a business can be controlled easily with the use of simple human intervention or using advanced technology. For instance, switching off the lights when the office is not in use is a great idea to cut down on energy loss in this manner. HVAC systems can also be managed with a few changes. It is good to opt for the best technology possible in this area, so that all the equipment in the office works at optimal levels.

Using Technology

With the growing use of technology such as thermal cameras, it is easier to get a fix on how and where heat losses are taking place in a business office. A thermal camera works by providing the owner an idea of all the heat equipment in his office space and then identifying where the heat loss is taking place. One of the main reasons why HVAC equipment is not working at its optimum levels could be due to the leakages in the water outlets.

A thermal camera can help fix this problem. By using light metres you be able to assess how the lighting systems work.

Changing Light Fixtures

There was a time when light bulbs were "energy guzzlers" but today there is a huge range of options available. Light fixtures today are all about energy efficiency and aesthetic looks as well. Modern lighting is all about the use of efficient lighting, such as fluorescent lighting, which provide immense amount of illumination and do not make huge dents in the business owner's pocket either.

Looking out for Government Certification

There are plenty of government managed or accredited energy rating systems that result in a business and its space being converted to energy efficient systems. Depending on the country of residence - programmes and ratings, such as LEED certifications, Energy Star and so on, can be used to convert one's business into a greener and more energy efficient space.

Weatherproofing Your Business

It may seem like a very small thing but there is a great deal of energy loss that takes place simply because a space has not been insulated properly. Sealing doors and windows is important to keep the heat or the air-conditioned and cooled air in. It is also a good idea to go in for weatherproofing the exteriors of the building. With the right kind of insulation, for example, the roof of a building can reflect back the heat during hot summers and absorb a greater amount of the sun's warmth during winter, and help the building keep cool and warm respectively.

This post was written by Matthew Langham on behalf of Inlec test equipment hire