Winter
Keep Energy Usage & Costs Down When Temperatures Drop
According to ENERGY STAR®, small businesses across the nation spend more than $60 billion each year on energy costs due to weather. Here in Michigan, cold winter temperatures may cause your company’s energy consumption to increase in various ways.
4 Factors That Impact Winter Bills
(Hover Over Icons)
1. Energy Usage in Your Business Space
2. Fluctuation in Workspace Temps
3. Changes in the Workplace
4. Monthly Billing Cycle for Businesses
1. Energy Usage in Your Business Space
Your building’s thermostat settings can cut into your yearly profits. Lower the temperature slightly during off-business hours in colder months and save on your company’s energy costs.
2. Fluctuation in Workspace Temps
Drastic temperature dips result in your building working overtime to keep your staff warm and productive — which affects your company’s energy usage and costs.
3. Changes in the Workplace
Many businesses hire extra help during the winter holiday season, and guests coming in and out of your building can let cold air in. The result? More lighting, equipment and heating usage.
4. Monthly Billing Cycle for Businesses
Cycles can run from 26 to 35 days, so monthly bills may vary. Note that there is sometimes a four-day difference in monthly billing cycles, which can cause your bill to increase.
Safeguard Your Business This Winter
Safety is always our number one priority.
Do you Smell Gas?
Immediately Call 9-1-1 and (800) 947-5000
You need to be mindful of the power lines and trees situated on and around your property. Practice safe protocols when having routine landscaping conducted or dealing with downed power lines.
Smell It: The most obvious sign of a gas leak is the smell of rotten eggs.
See It: Dry or hardened soil and dead or discolored vegetation could indicate a leak. In wet areas, you may notice bubbling.
Hear It: A gas leak often lets out a hissing sound.
If you detect a gas leak, evacuate the surrounding area and call
9-1-1 immediately.
Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Routine testing is critical throughout the winter and all year long. Also check expiration dates on devices annually.
Keep Exhaust vents and Meters clear of
Snow and Ice
Your building requires regular safety checks. Allow gases to properly vent outside to avoid a buildup of toxins. And keep in mind that a technician will need access to your meters.
Use Portable Space Heaters Wisely
If your workspace requires the use of portable space heaters, make sure employees know how to operate them safely.
Invest In Your Bottom Line
Managing building repairs and purchasing energy-efficient equipment, electronics, and lighting can deliver year-over-year savings for your business.
Manage Your Company's Energy Bill
Know Your Company's Supplier
Michigan natural gas customers have a choice when it comes to their natural gas supplier. That can affect your company's energy rate.
Winter
Keep Energy Usage & Costs Down When Temperatures Drop
Practical Tips for an Energy-Efficient Winter
Frequently-Asked Heating Questions
Contact our Business Center directly by calling (855) DTE-4BIZ or (855) 383-4249 with any questions or if you need help paying your monthly energy bill. You can also call our Business Energy Consultation Line at (855) 234-7335 to schedule an energy audit for your business.
We have many convenient payment programs available for small business owners. Our Flexible Due Date service lets you choose your bill’s monthly due date between the 1st and 28th day of the month.
Payment Agreement gives eligible commercial business partners the option to make installment payments on an active account over a specific period, including any current charges. Shutoff Protection Plan (SPP) for nonprofit organizations is a year-round payment program designed to assist nonprofit business partners who are falling behind on their bills. Call our Business Center at (855) 353-4249 if you need help paying your monthly energy bills.
Yes. If your business uses a gas furnace for heating, the only electrical cost will be what is required to operate the fan motor and igniter. The igniter lights the flame for a moment when the furnace starts up.
Generally, in the winter, you should adjust your workplace thermostat by about 7-10 degrees to around 55° Fahrenheit. This temperature is a good middle ground to keep pipes from freezing while also conserving energy.
During the summer, when nobody’s in the building, consider raising the temperature about 5 degrees. If you normally keep it at 75°, increasing it to 80° can result in energy savings. And consider hanging solar shades or window coverings to reduce radiant heat absorption.