As a business owner, it is essential to be mindful of your energy usage and costs, particularly amidst the cost of living crisis and rising global energy bills impacting us all. By reducing your gas usage, you can lower your expenses and potentially increase your profitability, whether you operate in healthcare, hospitality, or HR.
We’ve put together some simple strategies to help you reduce your energy usage in 2023.
Smart meters help you monitor energy usage
A smart meter allows you to monitor your actual gas usage rather than relying on estimates, and it can help you compare your gas usage over time. This can be particularly beneficial for businesses that have previously been charged for estimated usage.
Smart meters can also provide valuable data on how your business uses gas, which can help you identify opportunities to reduce your consumption.
Think about cutting your water usage
Gas is often used to heat water, so be mindful of how much water your business consumes.
Encourage staff to turn off taps when not in use and consider upgrading to energy-efficient appliances that use less water, such as dishwashers and washing machines. You can also install low-flow showerheads and taps to reduce water usage.
Upgrading appliances and equipment can pay off
Outdated boilers, radiators, and other equipment can significantly contribute to high gas bills. Investing in eco-friendly, energy-efficient models can improve your work output and reduce utility costs in the long run. Consider replacing old appliances with newer models with Energy Star ratings, as these products are designed to be more energy-efficient.
Improve efficiency across the board
Take a close look at your business’s gas usage to identify areas where you can be more efficient.
This might involve adjusting your heating and cooling settings, turning off lights and appliances when they are not in use, and sealing drafty windows and doors to prevent heat loss. One of the world’s biggest accounting firms, Deloitte, is lowering its thermostat by 2 degrees across the board in an effort to reduce its energy bills and climate impact.
Switching energy suppliers
Working with a single supplier for gas and electricity can save your business up to 30% on energy costs, making it easier to monitor and evaluate your energy expenses. There are a number of companies that can help you compare offers from multiple suppliers to find the best plan for your business needs.
Install insulation
While it can be expensive upfront, insulation can be a worthwhile long-term investment as it reduces the amount of heat your business loses when trying to heat a building.
Read also: How to make your new-build block more energy-efficient
Without insulation, buildings can lose up to 30% of their heat through roofs, windows, and floors. Insulating your walls and ceiling can help you save money on gas bills and create a more comfortable work environment for your staff.
Use natural light
Whenever possible, use natural light instead of artificial light to reduce gas usage.
This can be as simple as opening blinds and curtains to allow more natural light into your workspace. You can also consider installing skylights or other types of windows to bring in more light.
By following these tips, you can help your business reduce its gas usage and lower its energy costs. Not only will this save you money, but it can also be good for the environment and contribute to the overall sustainability of your business. Whether you’re looking for support with HVAC, Energy Centres, or Commerical Gas, you can depend on the team at Balance Mechanical to support your business throughout 2023. Give us a call on 01483 962525 to find out more and arrange a chat.
