DOG DAYS OF SUMMER During these dog days of summer, it's amazing what a ceiling fan can do for your space. Just ask anyone in this heat who has one. According to Environmental Defence, here are 10 ways, including moving air through your office with a ceiling fan, to keep cool and stay green.
1. Set a 'heat wave' dress code. Allow staff to dress more comfortably and set the thermostat at a higher temperature. Encourage light, breathable clothing, and no jackets, ties etc. 2. Use window shades/blinds on all windows to block direct sunlight. 3. Use a programmable thermostat. Set the temperature to a lower temperature at the start of the day, and allow the temperature to rise slowly during the peak of the day. Any efforts to reduce electricity generation during peak times is helpful, since the dirtiest types of generation (coal) are used to meet peak demand, typically between 11am-8pm. Set the thermostat much higher during times when the office will be empty, evenings and weekends. 4. Do big print jobs, use of copiers, other power using equipment during off peak times.
5. Get an office energy meter (eg. Kil-o-watt) and encourage office users to check how much energy their devices use. Education leads to conservation. 6. Make sure computers and other office equipment are turned off when not being used. A single computer generates as much heat as a 100 w lightbulb running all the time. 7. Ceiling fans dramatically improve the efficiency of air conditioning, and in some cases, you can cool an office enough so you don't need a/c. Moving air is important. 8. Dim or turn off all non-essential lights. It will save energy, reduce the amount of heat produces, and give the office a 'cooler feeling' on a hot day. 9. Encourage workers to take breaks, or take their lunch outside or under a tree. 10. Set up flexible work hours like half day Fridays, or even telework during the summer months.
To help beat this summer heat, mention the 'Dog Days of Summer' when you call Summerall at 901-795-4455 for a discount on ceiling fan installation at your office or home. | 
