Improving energy efficiency doesn’t always require major projects. Targeted, low-cost upgrades can deliver measurable savings, reduce equipment strain and create a more productive work environment. These six wins generate fast returns and set the stage for larger improvements down the road for your business.
1. Add smart power strips
Even when turned off, many devices continue to draw electricity — a hidden drain known as phantom power. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, this silent consumption accounts for about 5% of all electricity use nationwide.
Smart power strips eliminate this waste by automatically cutting power to devices in standby mode while keeping essential equipment running. They’re especially effective in workstations, conference rooms and common areas where multiple devices cluster together.
2. Weatherize doors and windows
Gaps around doors, windows and exterior walls force heating and cooling systems to work harder year-round. A simple weatherization effort — adding weatherstripping, applying caulk and sealing visible cracks — can cut building energy use by 10% to 15%. Focus first on high-traffic entrances and windows most exposed to wind. These areas typically produce the largest losses.
3. Install programmable, smart thermostats
Adjusting the thermostat by hand can save energy, but it’s easy to forget. Automation ensures consistency. Programmable thermostats let you set heating and cooling schedules based on actual occupancy, preventing wasted energy after hours or in underused spaces.
Smart thermostats add even more value by learning usage patterns, providing remote access via apps and adjusting settings automatically. These features optimize energy use without sacrificing comfort for employees or customers.
4. Maintain equipment regularly
Dirty HVAC filters, clogged vents and neglected equipment strain systems and consume more energy while underperforming. Taking steps like replacing filters monthly, clearing debris from outdoor units and scheduling annual tune-ups extends equipment lifespan and maintains peak efficiency. These preventive measures cost little compared to emergency repairs or premature replacements, and they ensure critical systems run smoothly during high-demand seasons.
5. Install LED lighting
LEDs consume up to 75% less energy than traditional bulbs and last significantly longer than widely used fluorescent lamps. That means fewer replacements, less maintenance and lower utility bills. LEDs also start instantly and are inherently dimmable, making them a perfect fit for energy-saving occupancy and dimming controls.
Most businesses recover their upfront investment for lighting upgrades quickly, and the savings keep growing after that. If swapping out every bulb at once seems too expensive, start with the lights you use the most.
6. Schedule an energy audit
An energy audit identifies opportunities tailored to your building and operations, from hidden air leaks to underperforming equipment. Our energy efficiency engineers can help with specialized tools and expert recommendations that may uncover inefficiencies you might miss on your own. The resulting report provides a clear roadmap for both immediate fixes and longer-term efficiency investments, helping you prioritize improvements based on potential savings.
Building momentum for long-term savings
Each low-cost upgrade moves your business closer to long-term savings and sustainability. Combined with everyday habits, they create steady momentum toward bigger efficiency gains without waiting years for a return.