I've been on a search, a journey, a quest!
The Mission: to find Ways to Save for Businesses.
Everyone loves a tip, thanks.
These ones are going to make a really big difference to your bottom line.
In this short video series, I'll explain how you can save money on your bills in 5 areas:
- heating and cooling
- lighting
- cooking
- refrigeration
- and your coffee machines.
Let's get started
Heating and cooling is one of the biggest operating costs for a business.
Did you know every one-degree closer to the outside temperature saves around 10% on heating and cooling?
That’s why we recommend setting your air conditioner between 23 and 26 degrees in summer, and 20 degrees in winter.
You could also put a sign up to remind customers to shut the door, letting people know that your business is energy conscious.
Keeping the door shut will make a huge difference; if the temperature is always fluctuating, your aircon will be working overtime.
Window treatments - such as these tinted windows or even something as simple as outdoor awnings will improve your venue’s thermal performance, saving even more on operating costs. There are also some government rebates available for heating and cooling.
To find out more, go to the website energy.vic.gov.au/for-businesses
Here's a lightbulb moment!
You can save up to 80% on your lighting costs by installing energy-saving LED bulbs.
They last longer, provide great light and it’s a really simple way to save money. And you can find LED lights to fit all of your regular light fittings and if you don’t have LEDs, why not switch over using a Victorian government rebate.
And remember, always turn off your lights when you leave the room, or at the end of the day. They're just as controllable as gas, and they are smart!
Cooking
Now let's look at what's cooking up a storm on your power bills.
Thinking about when you turn on and turn off your equipment can save you thousands.
Just turning off one sandwich press between the breakfast and lunch rush everyday, can save up to $1,000 a year!
Induction cooktops use a lot less energy than gas hobs.
They switch off immediately when no pan is detected, increasing safety and saving you money.
Refrigeration
How cold is your fridge? And how freezing is your freezer? If you're not sure, you can buy an inexpensive thermometer to find out.
Set your fridge to 4 degrees and your freezer to -15.
How old are your seals? Not those seals!
New seals are easy to install and can make a big difference in energy efficiency, and keep your stock cooler on busy days.
Another thing to consider is the age of your fridge or your freezer. Buying a new energy efficient fridge is a great way to save on your energy bills.
Coffee machines
We all know how much your customers love the perfect brew.
Keeping the water in the machine hot enough to steam, is a massive energy user. By switching off your machine overnight you can save up to $1,400 off your electricity bill each year.
By setting up a timer, you can be sure the machine is hot and ready for service when you open. Depending on the size of your system, you may need a licensed electrician to install the timer, but it’s a really easy setup, and you’ll see immediate savings.
To improve the energy efficiency in your business, you can nominate a staff member to become an energy champion - like Sarah here! Sarah saved this cafe over $3,000 last financial year alone.
So finally, before you clock off - switch off! For more tips on ways to save, go to the website energy.vic.gov.au/for-businesses
Page last updated: 12/11/24