Try to Beat the Heat

Yes, it is getting hotter. And yes, it’s summer. Here are a few tips to help your commercial property tackle this heatwave:

1. Adjust your thermostat.
   Set your thermostat to 78 degrees when the workplace is occupied, and 85 degrees or off after business hours. You can save up to 3% for each degree the thermostat is raised in the summer. Using ceiling or room fans improves air circulation.
2. Reduce your lighting.
   A general rule is that a light should be off when no one is present. Turn off lights in unoccupied areas, remove excess lighting and turn off signage and other lights not necessary for security and safety.
3. Be energy smart with office equipment.
   Turn off office equipment or set it to “power down” when not in use. Setting computers, monitors, and copiers to use sleep-mode when not in use helps cut energy costs by approximately 40%. Remember to turn equipment off at the end of the workday.
4. Use shades and blinds.
   On hot days, draw the curtains and/or shades to keep the sun out. Remember to close doors to the outside to keep in cooler air.

For reference, electrical equipment is generally rated for a maximum operating temperature of 104°F and electrical wiring is generally rated at a maximum operating temperature of 67°F or 194°F at the cable itself at rated electrical capacity based on outside ambient temperatures of 86°F.