Keep Energy Usage & Costs Down When Temperatures Drop
According to ENERGY STAR®, small businesses across the nation spend more than $60 billion each year on energy costs due to weather. Here in Michigan, cold winter temperatures may cause your company’s energy consumption to increase in various ways.
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1. Energy Usage in Your Business Space
Your building’s thermostat settings can cut into your yearly profits. Lower the temperature slightly during off-business hours in colder months and save on your company’s energy costs.
2. Fluctuation in Workspace Temps
Drastic temperature dips result in your building working overtime to keep your staff warm and productive — which affects your company’s energy usage and costs.
3. Changes in the Workplace
Many businesses hire extra help during the winter holiday season, and guests coming in and out of your building can let cold air in. The result? More lighting, equipment and heating usage.
4. Monthy Billing Cycle for Businesses
Cycles can run from 26 to 35 days, so monthly bills may vary. Note that there is sometimes a four-day difference in monthly billing cycles, which can cause your bill to increase.
Safety is always our number one priority.
Every business owner needs to be able to detect the signs of a gas leak.
Smell It: The most obvious sign of a gas leak is the smell of rotten eggs.
See It: Dry or hardened soil and dead or discolored vegetation could indicate a leak. In wet areas, you may notice bubbling.
Hear It: A gas leak often lets out a hissing sound.
If you detect a gas leak, evacuate the surrounding area and call 9-1-1 immediately.
Routine testing is critical throughout the winter and
all year long. Also check
expiration dates on devices annually.
Your building requires regular safety checks. Allow gases to properly vent outside to avoid a buildup of toxins. And keep in mind that a technician will need access to your meters.
If your workspace requires the use of portable space heaters, make sure employees know how to operate them safely.
Managing building repairs and purchasing energy-efficient equipment, electronics and lighting can deliver year-over-year savings for your business.
Michigan natural gas customers have a choice when it comes to their natural gas supplier. That can affect your company's energy rate.
According to The Department of Energy, you could save about 1% of your energy bill for every degree you lower your thermostat over an 8-hour period. Drop those degrees during off-business periods.
The DTE Small Business Program is designed to help your business become more energy-efficient and save you money. When you participate in this program, you'll be eligible for increased incentives exclusive to small businesses.
Businesses typically have more windows and entries than private homes. Insulate the building properly and add curtains and shades to windows. Doing that will keep employees comfortable and create a pleasing environment.
A lot of energy goes into keeping your business running. Invest in energy-efficient computers, printers, copiers, refrigerators, vending machines and more. Set computers, printers and other electronics on low-power “sleep mode” during periods of inactivity.
LED light bulbs are more efficient, durable and last up to 15 times longer than incandescent bulbs. They also use up to 90% less energy while providing the same amount of light.
Add room-lighting sensor controls to less frequently used areas of the building such as restrooms, supply rooms and breakrooms.
Following smart energy-saving practices can help you lower costs and see higher business returns.
Explore Rebate Offers and ProgramsContact our Business Center directly by calling (855) DTE-4BIZ or (855) 383-4249 with any questions or if you need help paying your monthly energy bill. You can also call our Business Energy Consultation Line at (855) 234-7335 to schedule an energy audit for your business.
We have many convenient payment programs available for small business owners. Our
Flexible Due Date service lets you choose your bill’s monthly due date between the
1st and
28th day of the month.
Payment Agreement gives eligible commercial business partners the option to make
installment
payments on an active account over a specific period, including any current charges.
Shutoff
Protection Plan (SPP) for nonprofit organizations is a year-round payment program designed
to
assist nonprofit business partners who are falling behind on their bills. Call our
Business Center
at (855) 353-4249 if you need help paying your monthly
energy
bills.
Yes. If your business uses a gas furnace for heating, the only electrical cost will be what is required to operate the fan motor and igniter. The igniter lights the flame for a moment when the furnace starts up.
Generally, in the winter, you should adjust your workplace thermostat by about 7-10
degrees to
around 55° Fahrenheit. This temperature is a good middle ground to keep pipes from
freezing while
also conserving energy.
During the summer, when nobody’s in the building, consider raising the temperature about 5
degrees. If you normally keep it at 75°, increasing it to 80° can result in energy
savings. And
consider hanging solar shades or window coverings to reduce radiant heat absorption.
