Energy Saving Suggestions
Lighting
. Natural light should be used whenever possible; avoid turning on overhead lights when they are not needed.
. Consider using task lighting (desk lamps) when possible; reducing the need for overhead lighting in the room.
. If you are going to be away more than 5 minutes, turn your lights off, even if they are fluorescent. The startup cost of fluorescent lighting is minimal compared to leaving the lights on for 5 minutes or longer.
. Turn off unneeded and unnecessary lighting, especially in unused offices, conference rooms, restrooms, copy rooms, break rooms, storage rooms, and internal spaces not in frequent/constant use (backrooms).
. When rooms or buildings are unoccupied, lights not needed for safety and security purposes should be turned off.
Computers, Monitors & Printers
. The power management features of computers and monitors should be activated so that when a computer is left unused, the machine powers down to "sleep" mode.
. Computers that are not accessed remotely should be turned off at the end of the business day and on weekends unless otherwise directed.
. If appropriate, use laptop computers -- they consume 90% less energy than standard desktop computers.
. Do not print out copies of emails or other documents unless necessary.
. Use duplex printing and copying when available.
Other equipment
. Copiers that do not automatically turn off after a period of inactivity should be turned off at night and during the weekend.
. Turn off all unused electrical appliances such as printers, copiers, coffee makers, and fans when not in use. When possible, plug electronics into a power strip that can be turned off at night to avoid phantom loads.
. Maintain refrigerators and freezers in optimal working order by keeping coils clean and doors properly sealed.
Special Considerations for the Heating Season
. The temperature in occupied rooms should be maintained at 68 - 70 degrees.
. Windows should be firmly closed and locked to prevent air seepage. Doors should be closed when rooms are not in use.
. Do not permit the use of portable electric space heaters.
. Blinds and curtains should be opened during the day to allow sunlight in for solar heat gain. In the evenings, close blinds, drapes, and curtains to reduce thermal heat loss.
. Dress appropriately for the season; wear layers of clothing during the winter months.
Special Considerations for the Cooling Season
· The temperature in occupied rooms should be maintained at 76 degrees.
. Outside doors and windows should be kept closed when cooling equipment is in use.
. Wear appropriate light clothing.
. Blinds and curtains should be closed at certain times of the day to prevent direct sunlight from entering the space during the cooling season.
. At night when temperature drops bellow 70 degrees, open windows and utilize outdoor cool air instead of Air Conditioning. This will also reduce indoor pollution.
General Recommendations for the Work Environment
. Be aware of the scheduled hours of building operations and plan work accordingly;
do not expect buildings to have fully operational HVAC systems during evenings and weekends when there is minimal occupant use.
. Wear clothing appropriate to the seasons.
. Keep all doors and windows in air conditioned spaces closed whenever possible.
. Be sure to place the faucet lever on sinks in the cold position when using small amounts of water; placing the lever in the hot position uses energy to heat the water even though it never reaches the faucet.
. Water leaks, dripping faucets and fixtures that do not shut off should be reported to your building proprietor.
