How to Save on Your Commercial Electrical System Without Sacrificing Safety

Introduction

As a business owner, I understand the importance of controlling costs while also maintaining a safe work environment. My commercial electrical system is a significant expense, but it's not an area I want to cut corners on. In this article, I'll share the methods I've used to reduce electrical costs without compromising safety.

Perform Regular Maintenance and Inspections

• Having a qualified electrician perform regular inspections and maintenance helps identify issues before they become major problems. It allows me to repair or replace components before they fail.
• I schedule inspections during slow periods or temporary shutdowns to minimize disruption. Annual inspections ensure my system complies with codes and standards.
• Proper maintenance increases efficiency and extends equipment lifespan, reducing long-term costs. I've avoided thousands in emergency repairs through proactive maintenance.

Upgrade Older Equipment

• Upgrading antiquated breaker panels, wiring, and devices improves safety and efficiency.
• Newer breaker panels have increased capacity and sensitivity, reducing risk. Upgrading from fuses to circuit breakers also improves safety.
• Replacing old wiring eliminates fire and electrocution hazards. Improved wiring handles modern power loads.
• New energy efficient lights and devices reduce energy consumption. I switch to LED lighting where possible. Occupancy sensors also reduce waste.

Take Advantage of Rebates and Incentives

• My utility company offers rebates for installing energy efficient electrical equipment. This significantly reduces upgrade costs.
• Federal tax incentives are available for upgrading to more efficient lighting, motors, HVAC, and appliances. I work with my accountant to utilize these.
• I also take advantage of retailer discounts and coupons when purchasing electrical equipment and supplies.

Consider Load Management Options

• By staggering high demand equipment startup times, I avoid peak power loads which spike costs.
• Installing capacitors and transformers can help manage reactive power loads.
• Strategically submetering allows me to shift non-essential loads to off-peak hours.

Purchase Energy at Off-Peak Rates

• My utility offers lower rates for energy used at night and on weekends.
• Where possible, I schedule production machinery and other heavy loads to run during off-peak hours.
• This requires some load scheduling and automation, but significantly reduces my energy costs.

Conclusion

By taking a proactive, forward-thinking approach, I've reduced my electrical costs substantially while also improving safety and reliability. Regular maintenance, system upgrades, load management, and off-peak utilization offers major savings opportunities. However, I always engage certified professionals and follow codes to ensure safety is not compromised. A commercial electrical system is not a place to cut corners.