Lighting
1. Eliminate unnecessary lights and lower light levels as appropriate

2. Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps and LEDs

3. Upgrade old T12 fluorescent fixtures to T8 fluorescent lamps and electronic ballasts

4. Install occupancy sensors in areas that are frequently unoccupied

5. Convert exit signs to high-efficiency LED signs

6. Install timers or photocells on outside lights

Equipment
7. Buy ENERGY STAR® qualified equipment

8. Replace old motors with high-efficiency motors

9. Buy ENERGY STAR® qualified office equipment

10. Turn off lights, computers and electronic equipment when not in use for extended periods

11. Install variable speed drives on motors when full power is not always required

12. Optimize compressed air systems

13. Install “energy misers” on indoor vending machines

See our Office Electronics section for more in-depth information.

Hot Water
14. Lower the thermostat setting to the lowest acceptable temperature

15. Turn off your electric water heater at night and on weekends

16. Repair leaks immediately and install aerators

See our Water Efficiency section for more in-depth information.

Building
17. Install weatherstripping around doors and caulk around windows and outlets

18. Add or repair insulation in roof and walls

19. Use window shades to block heat from summer sun

See our Windows & Insulation section for more in-depth information.

Heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC)
20. Service your HVAC system twice a year

21. Check HVAC filters every month and clean or replace them when dirty

23. Consider replacing HVAC equipment if it is at the end of its useful life (typically 15 year), air conditioning costs are high or if the system is unreliable, difficult to control or provides unsatisfactory heating or cooling

24. Use a programmable thermostat to set back or turn off the system when the building is unoccupied

25. Use fans to delay or reduce the need for cooling

See our Heating & Cooling section for more in-depth information.