Retail Energy Analysis

Energy Audit Checklist
Lighting – Operation
Use automated lighting controls.
Utilize photocells for all-night outdoor lighting.
Use timers in parking lots and restricted-access areas.
Utilize dimming controls to take advantage of daylighting.
Use motion sensors for low-traffic areas.
Always de-energize ballasts that are not in use.
Reduce lighting to minimum acceptable level for safety/security in: hallways, restrooms, storeroom and coolers.
Recommended Lighting Levels for Retail Stores
Store Area
Average Footcandles
High value/intricate merchandise
100
 
Fitting rooms
75
 
Cosmetics/pharmacy
75
 
General merchandise
50
 
Offices
45
 
Stockrooms
30
 
Lounges
20
 
Lighting – Maintenance
Clean lamps and fixtures for maximum illumination.
Repair/replace broken fixtures.
Replace non-working lamps with the lowest wattage available while maintaining lumen output.
Develop and implement a lamp upgrade program to energy efficient lighting (T-8, compact fluorescent, etc.).
Add reflectors to existing lighting.
Label panels and switches so lighting can be monitored and controls can be accessed.
Lighting – Procedures
Turn off lights not being used.
Use task lighting in place of area lighting where possible.
Open drapes/blinds and use natural lighting when possible.
Designate and light only specific parking areas for use.
Use decorative lighting and electrical signs only during high-traffic hours.
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) – Maintenance
Replace furnace filters on a montly or bi-monthly schedule.
Allow free airflow to and from registers.
Insulate hot water heater(s) and pipes, and ductwork located in unconditioned areas.
Cover and lock thermostats and ventilation controls to prevent unauthorized adjustments.
Check for unusual noise, vibration and decrease in performance or compressors/motors.
Seal ductwork leaks.
Inspect/clean condenser coils.
Clean and disinfect condensate drain pans.
Set up monthly/bi-monthly maintenance contract.
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) – Procedures
Minimize heating and cooling in unoccupied, low-traffic areas or when building is not in use.
Adjust building temperature by season; lower in winter and higher in summer.
Utilize ceiling fans whenever possible.
Close doors to outside and unheated or uncooled areas.
Use exhaust ventilation only when required.
If fossil fuels are present, test operation of carbon monoxide (CO) detectors monthly.
Building Envelope
Check and verify insulation levels.
Fill in outside air leaks with a low expanding foam.
Replace cracked or missing window and door caulking.
Install solar film or blinds for windows with east, west or south exposure.
Replace cracked or missing weather-stripping.

Contact your local NPPD Technical Solutions Consultant for additional information or to identify energy conservation opportunities in greater detail.