With the new year ahead, rising energy prices will see many businesses make an extra effort to reduce their running costs. As one of the most dynamic commercial electrical contractors in Leeds, we work with a wide range of clients from small coffee shops right the way through to large multi-nationals. Regardless of the size of the business, the need to operate at maximum efficiency and reduce unnecessary wastage is a common goal shared by many. A recent study by the IoD estimates that small businesses in the UK are loosing more than £1 billion a year due to failure to implement adequate energy-saving measures. If you own a small business and feel somewhat alarmed by this figure then you’ll be glad to know that there are things you can do to prevent running costs from eating into your bottom line.
Turn All Lights And Computers Off At Close
Electrical appliances are notorious for wasting energy when left on standby mode. Otherwise known as “vampire power” this little-known source of wastage can account for 15-20% of an enterprise’s total electrical usage. The biggest victim of standby vampire power tends to be offices as they have a large number of computers which remain constantly plugged in and are not always shut down or unplugged at the end of the day. With the exception of fridges and internet modems, it is advisable to completely turn off and unplug your computers, microwaves, clocks and other electrical appliances at the end of the day.
Install Fluorescent Bulbs
Lighting can be a very expensive outgoing for any business. As one of the few commercial electrical contractors in Leeds specialising in lighting design and installation, we understand how even a simple bulb can have a huge impact on energy bills. A lot of premises are still fitted with incandescent bulbs which require a huge amount of electricity to achieve brightness. This is because the filament is heated to the point where it is white hot thus creating light energy.
By using energy saving bulbs you can completely avoid the inefficiencies of incandescent bulbs as they generate light by conducting a small amount of electricity through chemicals to produce glowing light without the heat.
Make Use Of Central Heating Timers
Besides electricity, gas and heating make up a big part of monthly expenditure for businesses, especially in the winter and autumn months. UK laws state that an employer must ensure a “reasonable temperature” within the workplace (16ºC at minimum) so it is not an option to simply cut back on the use of heating during working hours. Central heating timers can help immensely and by programming the heating to go off perhaps half an hour before the end of the day, the residual heat will warm the immediate area right up to home time.
Commercial Electrical Contractors Leeds – Enertech FM
If you are looking to save energy this year then try some of the tips mentioned in this post. It’s also worth noting that faulty wiring and outdated lighting setups are two of many things that can see your business haemorrhaging money. We are one of the most highly responsive customer-focused commercial electrical contractors in Leeds and can provide an entire multitude of electrical services no matter how big or small the requirement. If saving money through energy efficiency is one of your goals this year, then why not get in touch with us to book a free electrical audit.
We serve Leeds, Newcastle, Middlesbrough, Durham, Darlington and all areas in between. To enquire about our services, fill out a contact form on our website or call us on 0191 432 4814.
Laurence is a content writer and marketing manager for Enertech FM. He helps publish regular content and insights for customers and industry personnel.