Working more energy efficiently fosters a cleaner environment and improves profitability for the Postal Service. Here are a few tips you can use to reduce energy consumption at work and at home:
n Be energy efficient. Use energy-efficient equipment and appliances and keep fittings in good working order. Educate your staff to use energy more efficiently.
n Switch off. Leaving appliances switched on when not in use creates high electricity bills.
n Adjust thermostats. When heating or cooling, adjust thermostats to the manufacturer’s suggested setting.
n Use efficient lighting. The right lighting creates a welcoming atmosphere, helps sell products, provides security, and reduces costs. Choose appropriate light fittings, lamps, and globes such as fluorescent lamps, since they provide more efficient lighting in large areas. Where lamps are in continuous use, the operating cost of a compact fluorescent lamp is just 20 percent of an equivalent incandescent globe, and it lasts 8 times as long.
n Take control of your lighting. If your lighting system is on several circuits, you can adjust lighting in specific areas according to need. Make the most of automation: Light-sensitive photoelectric cells will switch security lights on at dusk and off at dawn. Movement/occupancy sensors and programmable timers also reduce energy.
n Keep it clean — choose light colors and daylight. A buildup of dust on fittings, lamps, and globes reduces the output of light as it increases the buildup of heat, which shortens the life of the lamp. Dark walls and matte finishes reflect less light than light, glossy surfaces. That means more power is needed to achieve the same level of illumination. Don’t forget to use daylight control opportunities and open blinds and curtains. Use sunlight instead of electric light.
n Use hot water efficiently. A wide range of gas and electric hot water systems include easy-to-maintain and highly efficient options for your home or business. For efficient hot water usage, do the following:
n Install low-spray heads and electronic sensor tap controls.
n Install your hot water system as close to the outlet as possible to minimize heat loss.
n Insulate all hot water pipes.
n If you only need hot water occasionally, use an instantaneous or small storage unit, which will use energy only when the tap is turned on.
n Refrigerate wisely. Refrigerators operate around the clock, and that means a less-than-efficient refrigeration system can have a major impact on your costs. Maintain the correct temperature by ensuring the temperature is set correctly. Use a thermometer to check the temperature regularly. Clean, maintain, and defrost your unit regularly for hygiene as well as reduced running costs. Ensure that the condenser cooling fans and refrigeration motors are clean and dust free, remembering that you should always turn off and unplug the unit before cleaning. Protect the refrigerator motor from direct sunlight and ensure sufficient venting to allow heat to escape.
n Maintain a comfortable work environment. Install insulation to reduce your energy bills for heating and cooling. The most important area to consider is above the ceiling, though insulation in the walls and floors, weather stripping of doors and windows, and properly fitted blinds and window coverings will all help to keep warm air inside in winter and outside in summer.
n Keep an optimal temperature. A single degree cooler in summer or warmer in winter could increase your energy costs by as much as 10 percent. An effective and well-maintained thermostat — one which can’t be tampered with, and which is placed well away from draughts — is essential . If you’re building new premises, this is a great opportunity to start out with energy-saving features such as double glazing, correct building orientation, and skylights.
