Ready-for-Winter Restaurant Checklist

Connect with CORE for FREE energy advising

Stretch your funds with CORE Rebates: Cash-back incentives for restaurants on electric infrared outdoor heaters, HVAC systems, dishwashers, fryers, ovens and more.

Thermostats: Program your thermostat to match your business hours. For unoccupied buildings, turn down to 50 degrees to save energy while keeping pipes from freezing.

HVAC units: Check economizers, verifying that dampers are opening and closing properly, not stuck in a stationary position.

Equipment: Unplug from outlets if not in use or put plug loads on advanced power strips.

Air filters + coils: Replace filters and clean coils on HVAC and refrigeration units to keep equipment running at top efficiency. 

24/7 lighting: Put on occupancy and vacancy sensors. 

LED lighting: Replace old bulbs with LED lighting. 

Heat tape + snowmelt systems: Use controls and timers to reduce runtime and install a timer to ensure operation only between the hours of 9am to 4pm daily

Utilities’ online portals: Many utilities have interactive sites to review usage (Holy Cross Energy, Xcel Energy). Log in to check if changes are paying off.

Cut waste on take-out service: Ask customers if they have their own sauces, utensils and napkins to reduce duplication. Use compostable to-go containers and utensils to supplement what they don’t provide. 

Don’t idle: Encourage customers to shut off their vehicles while waiting for to-go orders.