The Top 10 Ways Associates Can Conserve Energy Use During Energy Action Month (and All Months)

The Exchange is committed to sustainability, and that includes reducing electricity and water use. While the Exchange’s Real Estate directorate is always focused on ways to save energy during store upgrades and construction projects, you don’t have to be in Real Estate to pitch in.

Here are the Exchange’s top 10 ways that stores and associates can contribute. October is Energy Action Month, but these tips apply year-round.

1. Designate a store energy manager. Have someone walk the facilities regularly to check for electricity or water waste.
2. Fix leaking faucets. If you see a leak, notify someone on the post or base to fix it. One drip per second wastes 2,100 gallons per year.
3. Turn out lights. If you don’t need a light, turn it off. Switch off main store lighting within 60 minutes of closing, and turn off undershelf lighting, display lighting, TVs and restroom lights when they’re not needed.
4. Maintain sliding doors. Make sure they’re closing properly, so that they don’t let out air-conditioning or heating. Check to see if weather stripping needs replacing.
5. Replace heating and air conditioning filters quarterly. Clean filters save 10% on fan energy. (The Department of Public Works and the Base civil engineer should change the filters.)
6. Review utility sales agreements. Designate an associate to review the Army’s annual Sale of Utility Services or the Air Force’s Utility Sales Agreement. A close review can save the Exchange thousands of dollars.
7. Compare current bills to previous bills. A bill review can reveal whether there have been any unusual changes year-to-year in utility use or cost. Mistakes by the host base or garrison happen and can result in overcharges to the Exchange.
8. Recycle, repurpose and re-use. Recycle all applicable wrapping, packaging and containers. If you’re not sure what’s recyclable, an internet search can help you determine what’s acceptable locally.
9. Replace loose weather-stripping. Loose or missing weather-stripping on refrigerator doors can cost $5 per day per door.
10. Upgrade to Energy Star-certified appliances. They are more energy-efficient.

To learn more about the Exchange’s sustainability commitment, click here.