As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, fall becomes a pivotal time for businesses to assess their energy usage and prepare for the months ahead. Cooler weather may seem like a break for utility bills after the summer heat, but the transition into the heating season can quickly drive up costs if systems aren’t running efficiently. That’s why following the right energy saving tips in the fall isn’t just a good practice—it’s a strategic move that can lower operating costs, extend equipment life, and make your workplace more comfortable for employees and customers.
Whether you manage a small retail shop, a busy restaurant, or a large commercial facility, these five fall energy saving tips will help you stay efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective all season long.
1. Schedule a Fall HVAC Tune-Up
Your HVAC system is one of the largest energy consumers in your building. In the fall, it transitions from cooling to heating mode, and without a proper tune-up, you risk inefficiencies, breakdowns, and higher utility bills.
Why a Fall Tune-Up Matters:
- Efficiency Boost – A properly serviced HVAC system runs smoother and uses less energy.
- Lower Utility Bills – Well-maintained systems don’t have to work as hard, reducing energy waste.
- Fewer Breakdowns – Seasonal maintenance helps identify issues before they turn into expensive repairs during the peak heating season.
Key Maintenance Tasks for Fall:
- Change or clean air filters.
- Inspect and clean heating components.
- Check thermostat calibration for accuracy.
- Clean condenser and evaporator coils.
- Lubricate moving parts to reduce friction.
Pro Tip: If your building uses a commercial HVAC system, partner with a qualified technician to schedule seasonal inspections. Businesses with multiple locations can benefit from creating a maintenance calendar to keep all sites on track.
2. Optimize Your Building Automation System (BAS)
If your business has a Building Automation System (BAS) or Energy Management System (EMS), fall is the perfect time to optimize settings for seasonal changes. These systems can automatically adjust temperature, lighting, and ventilation based on occupancy and schedules—but only if they’re configured properly.
How BAS Helps with Energy Savings:
- Automated Efficiency – Eliminates human error in temperature control.
- Load Management – Reduces energy demand during peak hours.
- Data Insights – Tracks energy use trends so you can make informed decisions.
Fall BAS Optimization Checklist:
- Adjust temperature schedules for cooler mornings and evenings.
- Update occupancy sensors to reflect seasonal operating hours.
- Review and recalibrate setpoints for heating systems.
- Ensure remote monitoring is active for quick issue detection.
Pro Tip: Many BAS systems have features businesses never use—work with your provider to unlock advanced energy savings functions.
3. Address Air Leaks and Insulation Issues
One of the easiest and most overlooked energy saving tips is sealing air leaks. Gaps around doors, windows, and loading docks allow heated air to escape and cold air to creep in, forcing your heating system to work harder.
Why Air Sealing Matters in the Fall:
- Reduces Energy Loss – Keeps conditioned air inside where it belongs.
- Improves Comfort – Eliminates drafts for a more consistent indoor temperature.
- Protects Equipment – Reduces strain on HVAC systems, prolonging their lifespan.
Steps to Take:
- Perform a building walk-through with a thermal camera to spot problem areas.
- Install weatherstripping on doors and windows.
- Seal gaps in ductwork to prevent air leakage.
- Add insulation to attics or wall cavities if needed.
Pro Tip: Even small leaks can have a big impact—studies show sealing air leaks can reduce energy costs by up to 20%.
4. Switch to Energy-Efficient Lighting
Fall brings shorter days, meaning your business will rely more on artificial lighting. Upgrading to LED lighting is one of the fastest, most cost-effective energy saving tips you can implement.
Benefits of LED Lighting for Businesses:
- Lower Energy Consumption – LEDs use up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs.
- Longer Lifespan – Reduces replacement and maintenance costs.
- Better Light Quality – Improves workplace safety and customer experience.
Fall Lighting Strategies:
- Install motion sensors in low-traffic areas.
- Use daylight harvesting systems to dim lights when natural light is sufficient.
- Replace outdoor security and parking lot lights with energy-efficient fixtures.
Pro Tip: Many utility companies offer rebates for businesses that switch to energy-efficient lighting—check your local programs.
5. Implement an Employee Energy Awareness Program
Even the most advanced equipment can’t deliver maximum energy savings without employee buy-in. Your staff plays a critical role in implementing energy saving tips day-to-day.
Ways to Get Employees Involved:
- Hold seasonal energy awareness meetings.
- Post signage reminding staff to turn off unused lights and equipment.
- Create friendly competitions to see which department can reduce the most energy.
- Reward participation with small incentives or recognition.
Pro Tip: Empower employees by explaining how their actions impact the company’s bottom line and environmental footprint.
Why Fall Is the Perfect Time to Act
By addressing energy efficiency in the fall, your business benefits from:
- Lower Winter Utility Bills – Prevents costly spikes when heating demand increases.
- Improved Comfort – Creates a more productive environment for employees and customers.
- Equipment Protection – Reduces wear and tear on HVAC and lighting systems.
Fall is a transitional season that allows you to make changes before extreme weather hits. Taking action now sets your business up for success in the colder months ahead.
Work with Professionals to Maximize Energy Savings
While many of these energy saving tips can be implemented internally, partnering with experienced service providers ensures the job gets done right. From HVAC tune-ups to BAS optimization, professional insight can uncover opportunities you may not even know exist.
Ty Corporate specializes in:
- Commercial HVAC installation and maintenance.
- Energy Management and Building Automation Systems.
- Commercial refrigeration services to keep your operations running smoothly.
By working with a qualified team, your business can achieve long-term energy efficiency, reduce costs, and maintain compliance with industry regulations.
Final Thoughts
Energy efficiency isn’t just about saving money—it’s about creating a sustainable business that runs smoothly all year long. By following these fall energy saving tips, you’ll prepare your business for the colder months ahead while boosting comfort, productivity, and environmental responsibility.
Now is the time to take action. Schedule your fall HVAC maintenance, fine-tune your BAS, and make the small changes that lead to big savings.
Ready to make your business more energy-efficient this fall?
Contact Ty Corporate today for expert HVAC, BAS, and commercial refrigeration services that help you save energy and money year-round.
