Attention small business energy efficiencies pay

Attention small business energy efficiencies pay

Last blog post we talked about lighting and office equipment and what you can do to stem the flow of cash out your business’ door from those hungry beasts.

This post we thought we’d continue on the same track of small business energy efficiencies – looking at three more big users of energy in the workplace. Heating/cooling, refrigeration and hot water. No point in donating more cash than you have to, to your power company.

So without further ado, let’s continue.

Small business energy efficiency 3 – heating, ventilation and air conditioning

This is likely to be your biggest energy user – which means, it’s also represents the greatest potential to save cash. On a hot summer’s day, an air conditioner is a must (especially in Australia). Small business owners (and home owners) just need to be aware of how to use them most efficiently.

  • When not in use, turn the systems off. If no-one’s using the room, turn the heater or air conditioner off and always check that it’s off before you leave.
  • Open the windows or consider ceiling fans.
  • If it has an ‘auto’ setting, use it.
  • Replace the filters regularly. Clean air systems will keep it performing at it’s most energy-efficient peak.

Small business energy efficiency 4 – refrigeration

Another big energy user! If you’re a owner of a restaurant, cafe, convenience store or anything similar – reducing your refrigeration usage will save you a lot – trust me!

  • Keep the doors shut to eliminate any temperature changes.
  • Check the temperature settings on the equipment.
  • Load and distribute the items in the fridge correctly.
  • Clean the cooling coils and check the seals.
  • Don’t put ‘hot’ food in the fridge. Wait until it’s cooled.

Small business energy efficiency 5 – hot water use

Make every drop count. No matter how must you use, it pays to cut back on unnecessary water and energy use. So make it count.

  • Reduce the amount of water you use.
  • Reduce the temperature of the hot water.
  • Turn your water heater off when it’s not being used.
  • Keep your equipment well maintained.

So there you have it – what you need to look out for and five great tips on how to save energy.

Not only will the small business energy efficiencies you find save you on costs and enhance your contribution to preserving our environment, there are a huge amount of hidden indirect benefits as well. Hint: customers will love your enthusiasm!

And the best thing about swapping your small business energy efficiencies is that it’s cheap and DIY. There’s a raft of people out there that would be more than happy to help you out – like us!

We can also help you put together an energy plan that is suited to your business’ needs.

Of course if you need electrical or other trade services, we’d be delighted to talk to you. You can call us on 1300 045 103 or get a quote now. And we’d love it if you joined us on linkedin, facebook or twitter.

Attention Small Business Energy Efficiency Pays – Part 1

Attention Small Business Energy Efficiency Pays – Part 1

In one of our latest blogs, we spoke about how much money Australia could save – it was up in the billions! But now I want to focus on how much money YOU can save – especially those of you who run small businesses.

Many small business owners don’t realise the money they’re burning due to energy inefficiencies that occur all day, every day in their offices.

For the small business owner, chances are you focus your time on running your own business rather thinking about the energy that keeps the business going (which is as it should be – good choice). However, cash flow can be tight enough at the best of times, so there’s no point in wasting money on energy if you don’t have to.

After reading this, you’ll be on your way to saving energy and valuable dollars that can be put to better use in your business. We all know how valuable those dollars can be, so I recommend you jump on board the energy efficiency train! If you’re in business energy efficiency really can pay serious dividends.

To get started, the most important aspect of preserving energy is knowing where it is most likely being wasted. It sounds difficult, but don’t worry – you’ll find the answers below (and in next week’s blog post).

Finding business energy efficiency – what you need to look out for (and tips on how to save!): 

Lighting – The easiest and most enjoyable way to save on energy (and also improve the look, feel and comfort of your business). Making changes to the way you light up your business should be the first place you start when saving on energy. It’s easy and it’s enjoyable because who doesn’t like a good ray of sunshine.

  • Turn off your lights when they are not needed – yes, really. During the day, open up the blinds and let the natural light in!
  • Upgrade your lighting. There are so many energy efficient lights on the market, why not use them. Fluorescent and halogen lamps are a good place to start.
  • Clean your lights! It sounds silly; but dust and buildup will reduce your lights’ life expectancy and output.
Office Equipment – This is a great place to look for energy saving. Have you thought about the equipment that you’re using and how much energy it is wasting by just being turned on? Maybe it’s time to start! If your business is office-based, think about the computers, printers and screens that are turned on (and chances are left on). If they’re turned on but you think they aren’t using energy because no one is on them.. guess again!
  • Turn equipment off whenever possible. Not only on the device but at the powerpoint as well. 
  • Electronic devices still use energy even if they’re on standby mode! Turn them off every night and on weekends (if no one is in).
  • Use energy-saving devices. Buy energy star labelled devices! If they cost a little extra, just think about the money they will save you in the long run.
Next post we’ll look at another three big contributors to your energy bill – heating/cooling, hot water and refrigeration and how you can save on those.We’d love it if you joined us on linkedin, facebook or twitter.Of course if you need electrical or other trade services, we’d be delighted to talk to you. You can call us on 1300 045 103 or get a quote now.