How To Improve The Energy Costs Of Your Business

No business will have been able to escape the rising cost of energy and if your business still operates from a central premises this increased cost is likely to be cause for concern. The good news is there are some proactive steps you can take in a bid to reduce the cost of your energy bills and in turn your overall business costs. Below is a list of some of the tactics you can deploy to help keep your utility overheads down in a time of unprecedented price rises.

Check your boiler

As with a residential boiler, your industrial boiler needs to be in good condition. The older the boiler is the less energy efficient it is likely to be and in turn the more it is likely to cost you. Consider whether it is time to upgrade and update your boiler as this initial outlay could have you save a considerable sum. 

Regardless of the age of your boiler, it should always undergo regular service and maintenance checks. This will help to improve efficiency and ensure it continues to run smoothly and safely. An industrial boiler can also benefit from the use of a soot blower, which removes soot buildup from your boiler. This improves efficiency, longevity, and reduces the cost of thermal heating. 

Tending to your boiler is one of the first and most efficient steps you can take to help bring down spiraling energy costs. 

Insulate your building

Now that your boiler is working to maximize efficiency the last thing you want to do is lose that precious heat because of poor insulation. If you have leaks, drafts or a poorly insulated building your premises will not be energy efficient and you will be increasing your energy consumption. Some great ways to insulate your building include double glazing and high-quality insulation in the walls, ceilings, and lofts. It is also important to check your roof for loose or lost tiles. 

Upgrade your systems

It is not just your boiler that should have a high spec but all other equipment, machinery, or systems used in your business. Modern-day products are designed and built to be more energy-efficient and eco-friendly than their older counterparts. That is not to say that you need to replace perfectly good business tools today but should they start to break down or become less reliable then consider replacing them with newer more efficient models. This could be anything from refrigerators, to computers, to automobiles, or whatever equipment it is that serves your business. 

Think about your lighting 

Illuminating a building is essential but it is costly and more often than not a business will be using lighting unnecessarily. Here are some ways to reconsider and reduce your reliance on artificial lighting; 

• Natural light is said to improve productivity and concentration, not to mention improve mood and morale. Where possible maximize the input of natural lighting into your business space. Open up curtains, remove blinds and situate work stations next to windows. The benefits will be more than just financial. 

• Use lighting sensors. Lighting that works on a sensor is a great alternative to the traditional ‘on’ ‘off’ switch. Lighting sensors help to regulate light usage and work by sensing when someone is in a particular space. When the sensor can no longer detect a person’s presence the lighting will go off. This is a great way to ensure lighting is not left on longer than it should be and avoid the risk of leaving the lights on when everyone has left the building for the day. 

• Switch to energy-efficient lightbulbs. 

• Turn off all lights that are not in use. 

Consider solar power

Businesses can often be put off by solar panels due to the often extensive upfront cost. While it is true that installing solar panels will require a considerable initial outlay that may take some years to recuperate, once up and running the benefits are plentiful. Solar panels will ensure that your business utilizes clean and renewable energy, they are easy to maintain and the overall cost of energy is likely to decrease.  

Carry out an energy audit

An energy audit is a process of examining your energy usage and output to ensure that you are using energy in the most efficient way possible. If you are not then the audit should be able to identify areas where you can reduce your energy needs and provide alternative solutions. Your utility provider may be able to carry out an audit on your behalf, failing which you can look to employ a professional to undertake this service.