Energy might not be top of mind when you're considering ways to cut office expenses. However, your office is likely full of devices — think computers, printers, lights and appliances — that use a lot of energy. No matter the size of your office, there are plenty of ways to reduce energy use. Here, we'll highlight a few simple cost-saving solutions that won't require a big investment.
Get some sleep
Computers and office equipment will continue to waste energy after hours or when no one is using them. Enable energy management "sleep" settings on all computers, printers and copiers.
Share printers
Do you still have multiple printers in your office that are not printing much of anything in this digital business landscape? If they are plugged in, they're still using plenty of energy. Sleep settings can help, but your best bet is to consolidate to one or two printers and put the rest to pasture.
Plug smarter
Plug electronic devices into advanced power strips or smart plugs. These low-cost devices automatically shut off power to unused devices, eliminating standby power energy waste.
Switch to LEDs
If you're still using conventional fluorescent tube lamps in your office, it's time to upgrade to LEDs. LED lights are more efficient and last longer. They also provide higher-quality light, helping improve workplace visibility and comfort. While a lighting upgrade may sound expensive, low-cost options are available. Affordable LED replacement lamps fit right into your existing fixtures.
Add controls
LEDs also come to full brightness instantly, making them a perfect fit for energy-saving lighting controls. Occupancy or vacancy sensors are an affordable upgrade for reducing energy waste in restrooms, meeting rooms, individual offices and other areas with varying occupancy.
Solve comfort issues
Some employees are too hot, while others are too cold. While such complaints may cause you headaches, they could also be costing you on your energy bills because of poor HVAC system performance, building air leaks and other issues. If comfort complaints are starting to pile up, have your HVAC system inspected by a qualified professional. A facility energy audit may reveal air leakage or other problems that waste energy and reduce comfort.
By taking these steps to reduce office energy use, you can also help make your employees happier, healthier and more productive — now that's smart business.