Electricity is among the biggest operational costs for businesses, which is why you should take measures to lower its consumption. Moreover, cutting back on energy usage reduces your carbon footprint and impact on the environment. Before calling in an electrical service to run an audit, here’s what you can do to improve energy efficiency in your office.

4 Energy-Saving Tips for the Office

1. Upgrade Lighting

Because lighting burns a lot of electricity in the office, cut costs by switching to energy-efficient bulbs. Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent, high-intensity discharge, and LED lights that consume less energy and have longer life spans. Consider using motion-activated lights in rarely used areas, and install more windows to let in more natural light.

2. Invest in Energy-Efficient Equipment

Technological advancements have made it possible for newer devices to use less energy without sacrificing performance. Switch out old appliances with Energy Star®-rated ones. They’re more energy-efficient and will save more energy and money in the long run, even with higher upfront costs. Ask your electrical services contractor for recommendations, but do your research as well. Consider using laptops instead of desktops for less electricity consumption as well, and install energy management software on computers and devices to power them down when they sit unused.

3. Switch Off

Encourage everyone in the office to be mindful of how they use energy. Remind them to use the ‘hibernate’ or power-saving options on computers, printers, copiers, and other appliances. Emphasize unplugging chargers and other electronics that continuously draw in energy. At the end of the workday or week, have everything disconnected, unplugged, and powered down, including all of the lights.

4. Use the Thermostat Wisely

Invest in a programmable thermostat and set it at a temperature near what it is outside to avoid overworking the cooling unit and cut back on energy consumption. When it’s raining or cold out, adjust the thermostat accordingly. If your employees still find it too warm inside, they can use fans to keep cool.

In addition to saving power in these ways, have a qualified electrician from AA Electric inspect the office for energy-saving opportunities. Based out of Honolulu, HI, the team of licensed electricians has provided electrical services throughout the island of Oahu since 1947. Call (808) 841-4131 to make an appointment, or request an electrical services estimate via their website.