As a small business owner, you probably want to focus on making money, not on how you’re going to cover costs. Reducing your energy use with some no-cost and low-cost actions is a great place to start. And by doing so, you may help lower your energy bill and reduce your environmental footprint at the same time.

Small Actions Add Up to Big Savings

Think about cutting costs where you won’t notice it. Here are some easy tips to help you save energy and money on space and water heating.

Save Hot Water

1.    Fix leaky taps and install water-saving aerators on kitchen and bathroom faucets.
2.    If running a commercial kitchen, consider installing a low-flow spray valve to pre-wash dishes. These devices use approximately 50 percent less water than standard types.
3.    If you can access your hot water pipes, wrap them with foam or rubber pipe insulation to prevent heat loss.

Save Heat

4.    Install a programmable thermostat and program it to 20 °C when at work and no more than 17 °C when no one is there.
5.    It could stay warm for up to an hour before the heating system needs to kick in again, so why not program your thermostat to turn down the heat an hour before you close shop?
6.    If you operate a street front business, don’t leave the door open on cold days, as it’ll push all your heated air out the door.

Upgrade and Save

If you’re in the position to upgrade natural gas space and water heating systems, or commercial cooking equipment, rebates are available on high-efficiency models. FortisBC offers them on high-efficiency boilers, water heaters and cooking equipment. In addition to the rebate, you’ll experience ongoing savings on your natural gas bill with more efficient appliances installed. If you’re not sure what upgrade is right for your business, consider a free consultation with one of their business energy advisors.

Learn More

For energy saving tips, rebate information and more, visit fortisbc.com/smallerfootprints. 
Image courtesy of Lyndon Hatherall.