As a pub owner, you know that energy costs can take a giant bite out of your profits if in case you are not careful. But what factors affect commercial energy prices? And how can you make your pub more energy efficient? Here we will answer those questions and give you some practical tips for reducing energy costs.
The first and foremost thing you need to do is understand the factors that affect business energy prices. These include the type of business you are in, your location, the size of your premises, and the equipment you use. Here are some tips for cutting pub electricity prices and making your pub more energy efficient:
Upgrade Your Equipment
Catering equipment in pubs is usually left on for long periods. This can result in high energy bills for the pub owner and be a fire hazard. It is vital to ensure that catering equipment in pubs is turned off when not in use. This will help to save money on energy bills and will also reduce the risk of a fire. Additionally, newer models are much more energy-efficient, which helps to save money in the long run. If your pub still uses old, inefficient equipment, it is time to upgrade.
Refrigeration
The refrigerator and freezer are crucial equipment in any pub, restaurant, or commercial kitchen. They provide a place for storing food and beverages, but they also play a crucial role in maintaining food safety. For this main reason, it is important to ensure that fridges and freezers are located in an optimal spot for food safety and energy efficiency.
One key consideration is to locate fridges and freezers away from heating sources such as ovens, stoves, and dishwashers. By doing so, the fridge and freezer will not have to work harder to maintain a cool temperature, resulting in lower energy costs. In addition, keeping the fridge and freezer away from heat sources will help to prolong their lifespan. Therefore, it is best to locate fridges and freezers away from heating sources for economic and safety reasons.
Zoned Heating
Zoned heating is a growing trend in the pub industry, and for a good reason. By allowing customers and staff to control the temperature in their areas, pubs can save money on heating costs while providing a more comfortable experience. Zoned heating also makes it easier to regulate the temperature in different parts of the pub, such as the kitchen and dining room. In addition, zoned heating can create a more inviting atmosphere for customers, making them more likely to return. Ultimately, zoned heating is a win-win for pubs and their customers alike.
Hot Water
A third of your energy costs are typically spent on heating and hot water, so it is important to ensure your hot water pipes are properly insulated. This will help to prevent heat loss and lower your energy bills. There are a variety of insulation materials available, and the type you use will depend on the climate area and the specific needs of your pub.
For example, if you live in a cold climate, you may want to use an insulation material designed to withstand low temperatures. In addition to insulating your hot water pipes, you can also take other steps to reduce your energy consumption, such as sealing drafts and ensuring that your heating and cooling systems are properly maintained. This can lead you to save money on energy bills and help protect the environment.
Maintain Your Appliances
As a pub owner, keeping your appliances in good working order is essential. Not only will this help ensure that your pub is running as efficiently as possible, but it will also help extend your appliances’ life. Tips for maintaining your appliances:
● Inspect your appliances regularly for signs of wear and tear.
● Clean your appliances according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
● Make sure that your appliances are properly ventilated.
● If you notice any appliance problems, call a professional for help.
This way, you can help to keep your pub running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the road.
Going Green
Going green is good for both business and the environment. Pubs that adopt energy-efficient practices can save money on utilities while appealing to customers looking for environmentally responsible businesses. There are several ways pubs can go green, including using LED lighting, installing solar panels, and using energy-efficient appliances. LED lights use less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs, which last much longer and need to be replaced less often.
Solar panels can provide an environmentally friendly source of energy, and they can also help to offset the cost of electric bills. Energy-efficient appliances use less water and electricity than their conventional counterparts, which can help reduce a pub’s carbon footprint. By taking some simple steps to go green, pubs can save money and appeal to the growing number of consumers looking for environmentally responsible businesses.
Other Ways To Be More Energy Efficient
● Install motion-activated light switches. This will help you save on lighting costs by only using lights when needed.
● Keep your doors and windows sealed. Drafts can add up to 10% to your heating and cooling costs, so it’s crucial to ensure that your doors and windows are properly sealed. Weatherstripping and caulking can help with this.
● Turning off all lights and appliances when they’re not in use.
● Take advantage of natural light by keeping curtains and blinds open during the day.
● In the winter, open draperies on the sunny side of the pub to let in solar heat.
● Added insulation in the walls, ceilings, and floors can help reduce energy costs.
The Bottom Line
The pub industry is under pressure to become more energy-efficient. There are many ways to make your pub more energy-efficient, including retrofitting your building, using energy-efficient appliances, and changing your business practices. By following these tips, you can keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket where it belongs and help the environment.
