As a business owner, you have a lot on your plate. From balancing budgets to managing employees, running a successful business is no simple feat. Not to mention, it’s not cheap either. If you own and operate a business, you likely try to cut costs where you can. One of the easiest ways to do so is to improve the energy efficiency of your commercial space! When you improve energy efficiency, you’ll enjoy lower heating and cooling costs, among many other benefits. If you aren’t sure where to start, make these simple changes to boost efficiency.
Upgrade Your Lighting
Lighting your space can be costly, especially if it’s a large building. Consider upgrading traditional incandescent light bulbs to LEDs to help cut costs and save energy. LEDs last 25 times longer than traditional light bulbs, minimizing the hassle of replacement while saving money. Not to mention, they use 90% less energy than traditional light bulbs. So as far as light bulbs go, they are certainly your most energy-efficient choice.
In addition to upgrading from energy-intensive incandescent light bulbs to LEDs, another smart strategy to further enhance energy efficiency in your commercial space is investing in motion-sensor lights. This technology would be particularly effective in areas of your commercial space that may not see much frequent activity. For example, large office buildings with extended hallways or infrequently used conference rooms can greatly benefit from motion-sensor lighting. These lights automatically turn off when no movement is detected, thereby eliminating unnecessary energy consumption and significantly reducing lighting costs.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
Another simple way to improve energy efficiency is by installing a programmable thermostat. With a traditional thermostat, you have to constantly change the temperature to ensure you’re not using unnecessary energy if no one is around. With a programmable thermostat, you can set it to a schedule and the thermostat will adjust as needed throughout the day. Not to mention, many programmable thermostats allow you to control the temperature from your phone, so you don’t even need to be at the office to make any changes! With a programmable thermostat, you’ll enjoy ease of management, more consistent temperatures, boosted energy efficiency, and lower energy bills.
Check for Leaks
Poorly insulated windows and doors can lead to draftiness and discomfort. Not to mention, they can cause HVAC systems to work extra hard to maintain the desired interior temperature. If you’re concerned about air leaks, consider hiring a professional HVAC technician to do a check of your building. Air leaks can be fixed by weatherstripping or caulking to ensure the heat stays out in the summer and manmade heat is retained in the winter. The result is more comfortable temperatures and improved energy efficiency year round.
Invest in Energy-Efficient Window Film
If you’re looking for a comprehensive energy-saving solution, look no further than window film. Windows allow for natural lighting, outdoor views, and a lovely exterior aesthetic, but they can create uncomfortable temperatures and glare, and detract from the energy efficiency of your space. By installing window film on your existing windows, you’ll enjoy a naturally lit space without adverse side effects.
Key Benefits of Installing 3M Window Films:
- Reduced Infrared Heat: 3M Sun Control Window Films reject the sun’s infrared heat, creating more comfortable interiors and taking some of the work off HVAC systems.
- Enhanced Insulation: 3M Low-E Window Film improves the insulating abilities of windows to retain heat indoors in the winter while rejecting the sun’s heat in the summer.
- UV Protection: Rejects up to 99% of the sun’s harmful UV rays, protecting furnishings and flooring from fading and extending their lifespan.
- Year-Round Energy Savings: Optimizes energy use throughout the year, leading to considerable cost savings and also improved comfort!
While all the options above boost energy efficiency, window film offers a solution that addresses many aspects of efficiency while increasing comfort for occupants. Talk to one of our professional installers to discover the best window film product for your commercial space!
Professional Window Tinting is a family-run and woman-owned business, proudly serving the MD, DE, PA, and NJ region for over 30 years. To get your free quote on commercial, residential, or automotive solar window film, give us a call at (302) 456-3456 or fill out a form online.
*This article was originally published in September of 2022