Watch CBS News

Energy Tips To Help You Gear Up For Cold Weather

Smart small-business owners know that at some point during the outdoor summertime fun of Independence Day and Labor Day, it is not too soon to sharpen a pencil and plan for the inevitable cold weather in the months ahead. From smart meters to LED lightbulbs, ComEd has some pre-season suggestions and recommendations for business customers across northern Illinois.

 

Energy Savings: Audit And Assess

Start your winter planning off right by scheduling an energy assessment for your business. Choose a qualified ComEd Energy Efficiency trade ally to conduct a free assessment of your energy-efficiency options. Your assessment may help you save money on energy bills, receive up to 75 percent off energy-efficiency upgrades with instant incentives, as well as reduce maintenance needs and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. For more information, visit ComEd.com/SmallBiz.

 

Energy Usage: Budget And Forecast

When it comes to money, no one likes a nasty surprise. Learn more about how your business uses energy by creating an account at ComEd.com/MyAccount. There, you can view and compare your energy bills, view personalized energy-saving tips and set a savings goal. If your business has a ComEd smart meter, you can access hourly usage information, as well as sign up for High-Usage Alerts and Weekly Usage Reports to better understand your energy use and save.

 

Outdated Equipment: Repair And Replace

Repair or replace old machinery, equipment and appliances for more energy-efficient commercial products certified by ENERGY STAR®. You can realize long-term savings while better protecting the environment.

 

Heating Systems: Clean Up And Tune Up

This is an opportune time for a pre-season heating system tune up, so take a look at your annual maintenance contract terms and conditions. Even cleaner filters can make a difference. The most efficient ENERGY STAR-qualified HVAC system, like a new car or a fine watch, will decline in performance without regular maintenance. You can save time and money while investing in your heating system's lower running costs and longer life expectancy.

 

Lighting Systems: Refit and Upgrade

You'll be burning the lights for extended hours during the winter. Larger facilities, such as grocery stores and parking garages, should arrange for an on-site audit to take advantage of expert advice and financial incentives for LED upgrades. Smaller businesses should replace incandescent light bulbs with ENERGY STAR qualified LEDs. LEDs use about 75 percent less energy and last longer than traditional incandescent light bulbs.

 

Want to learn more about how smart meter-enabled tools and programs can help your small business save? Contact ComEd at 866-368-8326 or visit ComEd.com/BizSmartMeter.

For more tips and inspiration for small business owners,
visit CBS Small Business Pulse Chicago.

 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.