The typical commercial building uses energy in a variety of ways: heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, computer equipment…
Recently we’ve been talking about refrigeration, because in buildings that utilize cold storage, a little more that half (55%) of a that building’s energy is consumed through its refrigeration system alone.
The second-highest consumer of energy in commercial buildings, as 22%, is lighting.
Now, lighting may be a fraction of your building’s total operational costs, but improvements to your lighting systems can improve efficiency and reduce energy costs.
Here are 4 DIY lighting improvements that will do just that.
- Upgrade to CFLs. Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are three times more energy efficient than incandescent bulbs and can last up to ten times longer. Consider replacing all incandescent light bulbs that are on for more than two hours a day with CFLs.
- Consider dual-level switching. For facilities that are open all night/24-7 consider dual-level switching. This allows some overhead fixtures to be turned off at night or during low-traffic hours. Studies have shown that people prefer lower light levels at night, and making the switch could save on your electric bill. Win-win!
- Use LEDs for exit signs and other signage. Incandescent exit signs use around 40 watts, while LED signs use only about 3 watts. Retrofitting an incandescent with an LED sign is quick and easy, requiring a $20 strip light to be screwed into the incandescent interface. Replacing an incandescent sign with a whole new LED unit is another option, which can save even more money. LED signs can cost $30- $250. LEDs are also good alternatives to neon lighting.
- Install occupancy sensors. Occupancy sensors are usually wall-mounted and replace an existing wall switch. They can save 30-75% in energy consumption and are ideal for back offices, storage rooms and restrooms. They cost about $30- $90 each uninstalled.
These measures are simple, easy and cost-effective DIY lighting projects that can offer a quick payback.
Got questions? We want to hear from you! Reach out and contact the engineers of Refrigeration Technologies LLC at 888-286-3091!!
