The need to monitor and reduce our energy consumption is more prevalent than ever in Irish businesses. The rising costs of fuel, the impacts of climate change and the opening of the electricity and gas markets mean that to be a smart business, the business needs to be energy smart.
Successful businesses look at ways to cut costs, particularly operating costs. A simple, effective but often overlooked way to do this is to reduce your energy consumption. Control the amount of energy you use and your business can significantly reduce its operating costs.
You should already be ensuring that you are buying energy efficient equipment for your business and in this article Barkeeper.ie brings you the top tips that are guaranteed to cut your energy use by ten percent.
In the Kitchen:
· Maintain refrigerators temperature at 3.2°C (37°F)
· Ensure that the freezer is set between -18° and -15°C (0° and 5°F)
· Regularly defrost freezers to stop build up which reduces efficiency
· Make sure refrigerator doors are kept closed when not being used
· Only use the dishwasher when it is full
· Always use a plug in the sink when hand-washing dishes
· Cover pots and pans to retain heat and decrease cooking times
· Keep extractor fan filters clean to maximise ventilation efficiency
· Turn off all equipment including lights when not in use
· Only pre-heat appliances a maximum 15 minutes before use
· Set water temperatures and ensure these are maintained
In the Bar:
· Keep windows closed to keep heat in and open to let cool air in
· Where possible use natural light instead of artificial
· Maintain refrigerator temperatures at 3.2°C (37°F)
· Make sure air conditioning is switched off when the bar is closed
· Ensure that the keg room door is kept closed at all times
· Turn off all equipment including lights when not in use
Guest Services:
· Insulate your building
· Install motion sensors for you
· If you have a swimming pool use a pool cover
· Insulate your boiler
· Unplug all appliances in guest bedrooms after cleaning
