Is your site set for the cold?
As the mercury drops, energy bills rise, and small oversights can become big costs. From heating inefficiencies to poorly timed tariffs, winter can expose the weak spots in your facility’s energy setup.
This checklist is here to help you get ahead of the chill. Whether you manage an office, aged care home or sports centre, a little preparation now can mean big savings and smoother operations all season long.
Assess Insulation and Building Sealing
Poor insulation is like leaving the window open with the heater on.
- Inspect door seals and window frames
- Identify draughty areas, especially in older buildings
- Conduct thermal imaging for a more detailed diagnosis
- Schedule any minor works before the real cold hits
Don’t forget: Even “hidden” issues can drive up costs and complaints.
A Type 1 Energy audit is a great place to start.
Tune Up Your HVAC System
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) is often the single biggest energy draw in winter. Make sure it’s working with you, not against you.
- Clean or replace filters
- Check thermostat accuracy and zoning
- Review set points and operating hours (are they still fit for purpose?)
Bonus: Modern HVAC controls can often be optimised without hardware upgrades—if you know where to look.
Review Your Lighting Strategy
Yes, it’s darker earlier, but that doesn’t mean you need to flood every hallway with light for 14 hours a day.
- Audit current lighting schedules and occupancy sensors
- Switch to LEDs if you haven’t already
- Prioritise areas with long run-times or frequent use
Smart lighting saves energy and improves safety and amenity.
Monitor Solar and Battery Systems
Winter solar generation is lower but that doesn’t mean your system isn’t pulling its weight.
- Check inverter logs for system performance
- Review battery charge/discharge patterns
- Consider adjusting load timing to maximise solar use
If you’re not sure how to do this, Tandem can help decode the data.
Plan for Staff and Occupant Behaviour
Even the best systems can’t outpace bad habits.
- Remind staff to report comfort issues early
- Provide simple guides to thermostat use (and limits!)
- Encourage “switch-off” habits for non-essential equipment
Behavioural nudges often unlock the fastest, and cheapest, energy savings.
Review Tariffs and Demand Charges
Winter demand spikes can be pricey, especially if your site’s usage profile has changed post-COVID.
- Check current tariff structure against actual usage
- Look at demand charges over the last winter season
- Consider engaging an expert to benchmark and negotiate
This is low-hanging fruit if you know what to look for.
Want peace of mind this winter?
Our Winter Readiness Consultation gives you a tailored snapshot of your site’s seasonal risks and opportunities so you can fix what matters and skip what doesn’t.
Book your check-up today and stay ahead of the cold.