Business Energy Tips - Heating & Cooling Adjust to seasons Ensure that your heating & cooling are adjusted each summer and winter. Generally you can set the thermostat between 18° and 21° in winter and 24° in summer. For each degree cooler in summer or warmer in winter, you could be adding more than 7% to your total energy bill. For areas not frequently used, such as storage areas or meeting rooms, close off vents so that your not heating or cooling any unnecessary areas. Thermostats Take note of where your thermostat/s are located. If they are located near a draught or frequently used external doors, you could be adding unnecessary costs to your energy bill. When selecting a thermostat, make sure you choose one with timer settings so that your building is not heated or cooled when the office is unattended. Additionally to ensure staff don’t change the temperature settings and increase your costs, consider locking thermostats to ensure a consistent temperature is maintained. Insulation Ensure that your business is well insulated. In particular ensure you insulate your ceiling as this is one area often ignored and one where you can save significant energy usage. Also look at weathering your building to reduce your cooling bill. Installing window shades, solar reduction film or awnings will reduce the heat entering your building. Windows & Doors Install automatic closers on external doors, to ensure they are not left open or ajar. Also consider installing blinds or curtains on external windows to reduce heat from entering or escaping, depending on the season. When outside temperatures are comfortable during spring, autumn and summer, open doors and windows to take advantage of the fresh air. Not only will fresh air replace the stale air, it will reduce your energy usage if your thermostat is set correctly. | 
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