Lighting
1. Eliminate unnecessary lights and lower light levels as appropriate
2. Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps and LEDs
3. Upgrade old T12 fluorescent fixtures to T8 fluorescent lamps and electronic ballasts
4. Install occupancy sensors in areas that are frequently unoccupied
5. Convert exit signs to high-efficiency LED signs
6. Install timers or photocells on outside lights
See our Lighting section for more in-depth information.
Equipment
7. Buy ENERGY STAR® qualified equipment
8. Replace old motors with high-efficiency motors
9. Buy ENERGY STAR qualified office equipment
10. Turn off lights, computers and electronic equipment when not in use for extended periods
11. Install variable speed drives on motors when full power is not always required
12. Optimize compressed air systems
13. Install “energy misers” on indoor vending machines
See our Office Electronics section for more in-depth information.
Hot Water
14. Lower the thermostat setting to the lowest acceptable temperature
15. Turn off your electric water heater at night and on weekends
16. Repair leaks immediately and install aerators
See our Water Efficiency section for more in-depth information.
Building
17. Install weatherstripping around doors and caulk around windows and outlets
18. Add or repair insulation in roof and walls
19. Use window shades to block heat from summer sun
See our Windows & Insulation section for more in-depth information.
Heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC)
20. Service your HVAC system twice a year
21. Check HVAC filters every month and clean or replace them when dirty
23. Consider replacing HVAC equipment if it is at the end of its useful life (typically 15 year), air conditioning costs are high or if the system is unreliable, difficult to control or provides unsatisfactory heating or cooling
24. Use a programmable thermostat to set back or turn off the system when the building is unoccupied
25. Use fans to delay or reduce the need for cooling
See our Heating & Cooling section for more in-depth information.