October 2008 Newsletter
8 Ways to Reduce Utility Dependence
by Tina West, Chief Operating Officer, Sunrise Management
After 30 years of progressive property management, Sunrise’s maintenance and property management experts know where to watch for hidden savings. At the top of the list these days: Energy costs.
We hope you’ll find these lessons suitable to cutting costs in your community.
8 Ways to Reduce Utility Dependence
1. Implement Energy Audits – Use free auditors from the power company to determine your best ways to reduce your power use and access rebates
2. Compact Fluorescent Lighting – Lasts 10 times longer and lighting is better (energy star)
3. Appliances – Fridge is single largest energy user in apartment. New models use 1/2 the energy (energy star)
4. Toilets – Pre 1994 (3.5 gallon/flush) Post 1994 (1.6 gallon/flush) can save water use by up to 45%
5. Systems Automation – BAS (Building Automation Systems) Manages climate, monitors failures, resident satisfaction
6. Boiler Controls – Estimate changes in heat demand – controls temperature, firing time and pump cycles. Reduced consumption by 25% on average
7. Programmable Thermostats – For every 1 degree setback while away from home 1% savings can be realized
8. Resident Education – Small changes in behavior add up!
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