Small Business
Every business has unique energy needs and challenges. This is especially true of small businesses, including those located in a residential setting. That's why Xcel Energy offers a variety of programs – and simple tips – that can help businesses of all sizes and types save energy and apply the dollars they save to their bottom lines.
In today’s challenging business climate, energy efficiency can be a competitive advantage. You know your business; count on Xcel Energy to provide sound advice on low- and no-cost actions you can take to make your business more efficient, and great rebates to offset first costs on bigger upgrades.
To order your FREE Small Business Guide to Energy Savings, click here.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY SPECIALIST
Energy Efficiency Steps That Won't Cost You a Thing
There are several things you can do right away to help improve your business’s energy efficiency:
- Get an Energy Assessment: Determine how much energy you use in your facility by completing a free online energy assessment.
- Tighten Up Doors, Windows: If doors and windows don't close completely, they can let cooled or heated air escape, or they can let in winter cold and summer heat. Tightening up may be all that’s needed.
- Shade Your Windows: Adjust shades and blinds, or install window film to control the sun’s heat.
- Utilize Natural Light: Open up shades and blinds and turn off lights in rooms that are well lit by the sun. You can also turn off lights in unoccupied areas.
- Turn Down the Water Heater: If you have control of your building’s water heater, turning the temperature down to 105° F can save money while still providing the hot water you need for domestic purposes such as hand washing.
- Unplug: If you’re not using it, unplug it.
In addition to the items above, simple maintenance can make a huge difference in your energy needs. So make sure to caulk those cracks, replace your air filters, and check if your weather stripping is in good repair. Also, if you are in the market for new office equipment, look for ENERGY STAR® products, which use less energy but work the same or better than standard products.