How to save on overhead by going green

Overhead costs are those that must be spent in order to keep your business running, whether you are bringing in business or not. These costs may include such basic things as electricity or internet service as well as the costs incurred with making products.

Overhead costs begin before you even open your business. However, many business owners try and save on overhead costs and keep them to a minimum, whether they are just starting out or are established in their business.

there is a stronger push than ever to "go green" by utilizing products and adopting behaviors that will minimize the negative effects that humans have on the planet. Going green can also help you save money on your overhead costs as well. The following are some ways to save on overhead costs by going green in your office:

Recycle
Recycling your garbage, cans, papers, etc in many areas can help you to save money on trash collection fees. If you are just starting out your business, you can save on a number of costs by recycling used goods and using them yourself, instead of going out and purchasing new equipment for your office. At the same time, if you are purchasing new equipment, make sure it is recyclable before making the purchase.

Save on water costs
You can go green and save on your water and electricity costs by using cold water around the office when necessary. In addition, you can save water by installing devices in the toilets that will cut down on the excessive amount of water used with each flush. You can also save on your overhead heating costs by keeping your water temperature in your office at a lukewarm temperature; it makes no sense to heat water that is too hot to used or that will rarely be used.

Monitor your thermostat
Go green and save on your overhead heating and cooling costs by keeping a close eye on your thermostat in both the winter and summer. By dressing appropriately, you can set your thermostat a few degrees higher in the summer and lower in the winter while saving on energy and heating and cooling costs at the same time.

Switch to fluorescent bulbs.
You can save significantly on your electricity, helping the environment as well as your overhead costs, by switching to compact fluorescent bulbs (CFB). While these bulbs may be more expensive, you will end up saving in the long run, as they last 5,000 hours compared with the typical 1,000 hours of a regular light bulb.

Consider your appliances
When purchasing appliances for your office, check to make sure that they have energy conservation features. These types of appliances are becoming more and more plentiful, and will help you to go green around the office while saving money at the same time.

Change your monitor
Flat screen monitors use a third of the energy that traditional monitors use, so it would be wise to invest in flat screens for your office. They have gone down considerably in price, and will save you money in the long run.

Going green around the office is beneficial in a number of ways. Not only will it help you to save money on overhead costs by recycling used products and saving on energy and electrical bills, but it will also help ease the stress on the environment as well.