Maximise Energy Efficiency

Traditional hot water systems are often powered by non-renewable sources, and, in an increasingly environmentally conscious world, businesses are seeking to move away from these systems. Holding many businesses back is the concern that sustainable alternatives will come at a significant financial cost. Heat pump hot water systems, however, work by transferring heat from the surrounding air or ground into the water, making them significantly more energy-efficient as well as relatively cost-effective. By utilising ambient air, hot water heat pumps require less energy, resulting in lower operating costs. This affordable renewable energy source means your business can begin to reduce its carbon footprint without significantly affecting your bottom line. When supported by a solar energy system, installing an electric heat pump for hot water will maximise your energy efficiency. 

Potential Cost Savings

Heat pump hot water systems offer potentially substantial long-term cost savings. Whilst the initial investment may be higher compared to traditional systems, the reduced gas bills and minimal maintenance requirements result in significant financial benefits over time. These benefits are even greater if your business has a solar energy system. With rising energy prices and increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices, investing in a heat pump hot water system is a prudent decision for your business to optimise your bottom line.

We understand that households and businesses will have unique hot water consumption levels. Next Business Energy conducts individual assessments to determine the appropriate system size and type to suit your needs and maximise your savings. 

Environmental Sustainability

In addition to the financial savings, utilising renewable energy sources for hot water may reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to a cleaner, healthier planet. Consumers are more informed than ever and increasingly prioritise environmentally conscious brands. Implementing sustainable technologies may attract eco-conscious clientele while enhancing your brand’s reputation. Embracing environmentally friendly practices, such as installing a heat pump hot water system, offers a host of easily accessible financial and reputational benefits. 

Versatility and Adaptability

Heat pump hot water systems are highly versatile and adaptable to various settings. Whether installed in a small office building, a large manufacturing facility, or a hospitality establishment, these systems can efficiently meet the hot water demands of most commercial operations. Further technological advancements have led to the development of compact and space-saving units, making them suitable for businesses with limited space availability.

Government Incentives

Governments worldwide are incentivising the adoption of renewable energy technologies through various grants, rebates, and tax credits. By investing in a heat pump hot water system, businesses may be eligible for financial incentives to offset the initial costs. These incentives make the transition to sustainable energy more financially viable and demonstrate your commitment to environmental stewardship and corporate responsibility. Contact Next Business Energy for further details on government incentives and your company’s eligibility. 

Embracing Heat Pump Hot Water for Sustainable Business Operations

The benefits of heat pump hot water systems for businesses are undeniable. From energy efficiency and cost savings to environmental sustainability and government incentives, these systems offer advantages that align with the goals and priorities of your modern enterprise. 

Next Business Energy, as part of the Next Green Group, is committed to helping you and your business embrace innovative technologies that enhance operational efficiency and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future. If you’re considering installing a heat pump hot water system or wish to update your current one for a more suitable option, The Next Green Group is here to support you. Send us an online enquiry, and our Integrated Energy Team Advisors will help you.  

The post The Benefits of Heat Pump Hot Water appeared first on Next Business Energy.

Here are some valuable tips to make your business summer-ready!

Maintain and Upgrade to Energy Efficient Appliances.

When preparing your business for summer, it is vital to check the well-being and suitability of your workplace appliances. 

Air Conditioning – Ensure the air conditioning is in the best shape by scheduling an inspection and getting an expert service. Keeping the filters and coils clean can improve efficiency, meaning it won’t take long to reach the required temperature.  Upgrading the system can be a long-term investment, too, as newer systems are more energy efficient, saving you money in the long run. 

Efficient Lighting – Upgrading to energy-efficient alternatives like Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) and Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) can convert more electricity into light, meaning they are more energy-efficient. They also emit less heat than traditional bulbs, keeping your workspace cooler and your bills lower.  

Thermostats – Upgrading to programmable thermostats allows you to set a temperature schedule, ensuring that the AC only runs during office hours and avoiding unnecessary usage. Implementing zoning systems allows different building areas to have separate settings and prevents excessive use of the cooling systems. 

When searching for better appliances, it’s important to check for ones with Energy Star Certification, as these models consume less energy, offering long-term savings. You can install timers and motion sensors to ensure they only operate when necessary. 

Energy Saving Alternatives

Businesses can also look for cheaper solutions to avoid spending money. These include: 

Optimising Insulation – Businesses can check for air leaks in cracks, gaps and openings around windows and doors. Sealing cracks by weather-stripping or caulking can prevent cooled air from escaping, thereby maximising efficiency. Although this may reduce visibility, window films can reduce heat without obstructing natural light, thus maintaining the indoor temperature. 

Checking and Investing in better roof insulation can reduce strain on your HVAC systems by keeping the indoor temperature stable.  

Sunshading solutions – Companies can install exterior sunshades or awnings. Not only do these stop unnecessary cooling, but they also add to the aesthetic of your offices. Using blinds or curtains to block out direct sunlight can reduce indoor temperatures. 

Ventilation fans – Strategically placing exhaust fans in busy areas can improve airflow and dissipate heat, cooling down spaces without needing to use air conditioning.

Natural Solutions

When making the change to a more energy-efficient, affordable summer, sometimes the simplest of tricks can make the difference, with no costs attached.

For example, companies can harness natural ventilation by taking advantage of early mornings and late evenings to let cool air in.  Businesses can open their windows at night and close them during the day to keep the heat out. 

Other solutions include maximising natural light throughout the company. Employees can arrange workstations near windows to make the most of natural sunlight to reduce the need for artificial lighting, keeping energy consumption and costs down. 

Consider Working From Home

With growing concern about intense heatwaves and the possibility of blackouts, businesses might consider encouraging employees to work from home either some days or every day. 

Here’s why this could be a wise move:

• Energy Conservation: By reducing the number of staff in the office, there’s less reliance on office cooling systems. This can significantly cut down on energy consumption.
• Reduced Blackout Risk: With fewer businesses drawing heavily on the power grid during peak times, the strain on the grid decreases, potentially reducing the likelihood of blackouts in your area.
• Employee Comfort: At home, employees often have more flexibility to create a comfortable working environment tailored to their preferences.
• Boosted Productivity: A comfortable environment, free from the stresses of commuting in the heat, can lead to increased focus and output.

The challenges posed by an exceptionally hot summer are not unavoidable and embracing remote work can not only help businesses manage energy costs but also ensure the well-being and productivity of their teams.

Shifting Hours to Beat the Heat

In addition to considering remote work options, businesses can adapt by adjusting their operational hours during the summer months. Here’s why shifting work hours can be a strategic move:

• Beat the Peak Heat: Adjust work schedules to start earlier and end before the hottest part of the day, reducing reliance on air conditioning during peak temperatures.
• Employee Comfort: Employees can avoid the hottest times for commuting, enhancing their overall comfort and productivity.
• Save on Energy Costs: Shifting to cooler hours can lower energy bills, as operating during peak heat is often more expensive.

Implementing the change will require you to:

• Communicate the new hours clearly.
• Offer flexibility within a range of start and end times.
• Regularly review and adjust based on feedback and energy savings.
• This strategy not only aids in energy conservation but also demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being and environmental responsibility.

Engage with Your Employees

Employers can promote awareness by educating their workforce about energy-saving practices like turning off lights and deactivating appliances when not in use. This may include switching off fans and air conditioning when no longer working in the room.  Companies can establish “Green Teams” that are dedicated to implementing and maintaining energy-efficient practices. These teams can create a sustainability culture in the workplace. 

Energy Saving for the Summer

By incorporating these strategies, businesses can stay cool during the summer while reducing energy consumption and costs. It’s important to remember that using multiple steps, regardless of how big or small, may equate to substantial benefits. Through teamwork, employers and employees can create a workspace that prioritises efficiency and sustainability during summer. 

At Next Business Energy, we champion the move towards a more sustainable and cost-effective future. Embrace energy efficiency, and watch your business thrive both financially and ethically.

Visit our website for more information on how you can make your business summer-ready.  

The post Is Your Business Summer Ready? Energy Saving Tips for Summer appeared first on Next Business Energy.

A heat pump hot water system works by transferring heat from the air or ground to heat the water, using a fraction of the energy required by traditional electric systems. 

Heat pump hot water systems are becoming an increasingly popular choice for businesses looking for energy-efficient ways to meet their hot water needs, as there are numerous ways a heat pump hot water system can improve your business’s energy cost and consumption.

Improved energy efficiency

Heat pump hot water systems are highly energy-efficient, using up to 65% less energy than traditional electric storage hot water systems. 

Heat pump hot water systems are more efficient than traditional systems, so less energy is wasted during the heating process. This increased efficiency can help your business save money on energy costs in the long run and reduce your business’s carbon footprint.

Reduced greenhouse gas emissions

By using less energy, heat pump hot water systems produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions than traditional electric hot water systems. 

By using renewable energy to heat water, these systems can significantly reduce your business’s greenhouse gas emissions. This makes them a more environmentally friendly choice for businesses looking to reduce their impact on the planet.

A longer lifespan

Heat pump hot water systems typically have a longer lifespan than traditional hot water systems, with some models lasting up to 20 years. 

With improved durability and longevity, this means that you’ll have to replace your system less often, saving your business money on maintenance and replacement costs. 

System versatility

Heat pump hot water systems can be used in a variety of commercial settings, from small businesses to large industrial operations, making them suitable for many businesses. 

Heat pump hot water systems can also be used in conjunction with solar panels to further increase their energy efficiency.

Lower energy costs

With a heat pump hot water system, you can save up to 70% on your hot water energy costs compared to traditional electric systems. 

While the initial cost of a heat pump hot water system may be higher, the long-term energy savings can provide a significant return on investment. However, your business may be eligible to apply for a heat pump hot water upgrade through our partner company, The Green Guys Group. This zero-cost upgrade can make it easier for your business to save on your energy costs straight away. 

Choosing the right heat pump water system

To achieve the benefits of a heat pump hot water system, it’s important to choose the right heat pump hot water system for your business’s needs. Consider factors such as the size of your business and the size of the system required, the hot water usage patterns, the location of the installation, and the climate in your region when selecting a system. 

Heat pump hot water systems offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution for businesses looking to reduce their energy costs and carbon footprint. By making the switch, your business can enjoy long-term savings, increased efficiency, and a more sustainable approach to hot water heating.

Find out more about the heat pump hot water upgrade, as well as other commercial energy solutions, on our website.

The post The Benefits of Installing a Heat Pump Hot Water System For Your Business appeared first on Next Business Energy.

Before you reach for the air conditioning remote, here are some things to do to help keep your workplace cooler (and energy costs down) this summer. 

Keep the heat out

If you can minimise the heat in the first place, it will be easier to manage. Close curtains and blinds to help block out sunlight and heat and keep your office cooler. Sheer curtains can be good for a workplace as they will keep the heat out but still let enough natural light in. 

Properly insulate your workplace by checking for any draughts and sealing them up. This will stop warm air from getting in and any cooler air inside from getting out. Also, make sure to keep external doors closed, and consider if it may be worth installing energy-efficient windows and doors in your office.

Make the most of fans

Fans can often get ignored in favour of blasting the air con, however, they are often more cost-effective to run. Fans can be used to help push cooler air into various areas that your air conditioning system may be struggling to reach. 

Whether you have ceiling fans or pedestal fans, using them in your workspace can help reduce your reliance on your air conditioning system, and may help you cut down on electricity costs in summer. 

Clean or change your air conditioning filters

Looking after your air conditioning system and regularly cleaning the filters will help it run more efficiently. Dust can build up quickly and if the filters aren’t cleaned, your system will use more power. Carefully cleaning the dust filters of your air conditioning unit will help improve its energy efficiency and lower running costs.

If your air conditioning system is no longer running efficiently, then it may be time for an upgrade. Investing in a more energy-efficient air conditioning system can help you save in the long term, just make sure you keep up with regular cleaning and maintenance as well. 

Don’t overdo it with your cooling system

Once it heats up people can be tempted to blast the cooling all day, but this can be very expensive. 

There’s no point cooling your whole building if you don’t need to, so focus on only cooling rooms that are occupied. Minimising how long you have cooling on can help reduce costs. Set a timer to ensure the air conditioning system turns off at a set time each day, to avoid it accidentally getting left on for long periods of time.

Set your air conditioning system to the optimal temperature, as each degree lower can add to your energy costs. 

For more tips on how your business can save on energy costs over summer, check out our recent blog on how smart devices can help your business save energy.  

The post Staying on top of your energy usage this summer appeared first on Next Business Energy.

Water heating systems can have a big impact on energy usage and costs, however, there are some things you can do to improve efficiency and reduce costs. 

Business water heating systems

Depending on your business you may have various needs when it comes to hot water systems, but there are some key factors that can impact costs. 

Properly insulate your water heater and supply pipes to retain water heat more efficiently. You should also regularly check for any water leaks, as even small leaks can add up on your energy bills over time. 

The age of a water heater can impact efficiency, so consider how old your business’s water heater is. If it’s older than 7 years, it may be time to upgrade to a more energy efficient model or replace the insulation. 

Water temperature can also impact costs. If you’re setting the temperature too hot, this uses more energy, so you can save money by setting the temperature at an optimal level. 

The type of hot water system your business uses can greatly impact your energy costs, so as well as properly maintaining your system and lowering the temperature, you should invest in the most energy efficient type of system you can. 

Heat pump water heating

Heat pump water heaters may save your business a significant amount on your energy bills each year, as well as help you reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

A heat pump water heater works by absorbing heat from the air and transferring it to heat water. Heat pump water heating is considered a type of solar water heater as the heat in the air comes from the sun. However, they are different to solar hot water systems, as they don’t have an electric or gas boosting system.

While they operate on electricity, heat pump water systems are roughly three times more efficient than a conventional electric water heater. They typically use around 75 percent less electricity than conventional electric hot water systems, as electricity is used to operate the heat pump rather than directly heat the water.

Heat pump water heating is generally installed outside on the ground, though in some cases it may be installed inside. As heat pump water heaters have a fan and compressor that will make noise when operating, you may want to consider this potential disturbance when choosing the best place to install. They also need to be installed in a well ventilated area, with access to a steady stream of ambient air in order to efficiently operate. 

Want to save on your hot water costs?

If you want to save on your business’ hot water costs, then you need to know about the zero-cost hot water system upgrade, brought to you by The Green Guys Group. 

The zero-cost hot water system upgrade involves businesses being able to apply for government-subsidised, high-quality systems designed for Australian conditions. These systems are supplied and installed for free by The Green Guys’ local tradesmen partners when replacing an existing electric hot water system up to 310L size installed outside.

Contact us to learn more about this upgrade and whether your business is eligible.

The post How your business can save with heat pump water heating appeared first on Next Business Energy.

Air conditioning can account for a significant portion of energy use within an office environment. However, there are some things you can do to help reduce annual cooling costs of your business, while still keeping your workspace cool and comfortable. 

Take the pressure off your cooling system

Instead of turning on your air conditioning and running it on high, consider other actions you can take to help cool your workplace and reduce your reliance on air conditioning. 

Direct sunlight streaming into your workplace can quickly raise the temperature. Using curtains and blinds can impact the inside temperature and help keep your business cool while still letting enough light into the room. Curtains and blinds can take the kick out of the sun’s heat, and they will not add to your electricity bill. 

Using fans is another way to avoid excessive use of air conditioning. Ceiling fans or floor fans can help keep a space cooler, and they use less energy than air conditioning units. If a fan on its own is not enough, you can use it in conjunction with your air conditioning, and you won’t need to have the air con temperature set as low. 

Also, encourage employees to dress appropriately for the warmer weather, and wear comfortable clothing so you can avoid having the cooling on all day. 

Manage your air conditioning

Invest in improved control systems that enable you to better manage your cooling systems. 

Automate temperatures and adjust your thermostat settings so as not to have your air conditioning set too low. Each degree you lower the thermostat in summer makes a difference to costs and puts additional stress on your system. Set it to a comfortable temperature and don’t allow your employees to change the setting throughout the day. 

Make sure not to set and forget your air conditioning, as you are unlikely to need it to turn on all day, every day. Only cool the office when it’s occupied, and don’t leave your cooling system on overnight or on weekends. You may also want to set it so it only comes on for a set amount of time each day. Mornings can often be cooler, so you may be able to get away with not having the air conditioning on until after lunch, and then make sure it turns off at the end of the day as people start heading home. 

Don’t waste your cool energy

As air conditioning can contribute such a high cost to your energy bills you want to make sure that energy isn’t being wasted. 

Check your air conditioning units are in the right place throughout your business premises to give the most effective cooling. If you have open doorways, you don’t want your air conditioning units to be situated directly above them, as you will end up losing a lot of your cool air. You may need to relocate units to ensure you’re not wasting energy. 

It may be a good idea to remove units from unnecessary spaces, as you probably don’t need an air conditioning unit in every room of your workspace, especially those where employees are not spending much of their time. And block off areas that don’t need to be cooled, as the more space there is to cool, the more energy you expend and the higher your energy bills will be. 

Maintenance makes a big difference

Regular maintenance ensures you get the most from your cooling unit during summer, as a clean air conditioning system runs more efficiently. 

Filters can become dirty and clogged quickly, causing the cooling system to work harder and use more energy. Have spare filters on hand so you can easily clean and replace filters on a regular basis. 

You should get your system professionally serviced at least annually to keep it running at optimum efficiency. This will also keep your system in better condition for longer. If your air conditioning system is quite old, and even with maintenance, no longer works efficiently, it may be a worthwhile investment to upgrade to a more energy efficient system. This will save you money in the long term. 

For more tips on how you can reduce energy costs within your business, check out our blog on strategies for saving energy in the workplace.

The post Keeping your business cool during summer appeared first on Next Business Energy.

The holiday season can be a difficult time financially, and though many businesses are getting ready to shut down for a week or two, it’s an important time to consider your business needs going into the new year. 

Limit cooling

The holiday season in Australia means summer time! And while temperatures in the workplace may be rising, try not to overdo it on the air conditioning as this may blow out your energy costs. 

A controllable thermostat allows you to set the air conditioning at just the right temperature to keep your office comfortable without cooling it too much. You should also set a timer so it’s not running all day, nor left on overnight, as this will result in expensive energy bills. Only cool spaces in use, and don’t waste energy cooling every corner of the office. 

To reduce reliance on air conditioning and reduce costs, use fans only when possible. They use less energy and are more cost effective to run. 

Replace your air conditioning filters on a regular basis, as replacing a dirty, clogged filter can help lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption, making it run more efficiently. 

You should also consider similar energy saving practices when it comes to winter. Even though it’s a long way off at the moment, winter can be a period when energy costs go up due to increased heating usage. 

Be aware of the times of the year where your business may be using more energy through heating and cooling, and either look for ways to reduce usage, or budget for higher costs. 

Consider future plans for your business

In order to keep on top of your energy bills in the new year, you need to think about the future plans of your business. Various factors impact your business energy, so consider what you have planned for the year that you may need to budget for. 

Business owners may be looking ahead and thinking about how their business may grow in the new year. You may have new employees joining your team in the near future, or perhaps you have outgrown your current business premises. Or, perhaps you’re planning to encourage your employees to work remotely going forward, which means you can downsize to a smaller office. 

The size of your office impacts how much energy you use, from lighting to heating and cooling the space, which affects your energy bills. And, if you’re planning to move to a new premises, whether bigger or smaller, you’ll need to get your energy transferred. 

Are you planning to invest in renewable energy in the new year? Switching to more energy efficient and renewable energy sources to power your business improves the sustainability of your business, as well as the environment. Investing in renewable energy involves upfront costs that you’ll need to budget for, but the long-term savings can be significant. 

The future plans of your business (and these will vary from business to business) can impact your energy usage and the costs involved, and so is something to consider when budgeting for the new year. 

Review your energy use and costs from the year

Comparing year on year energy use and costs helps you see where you may need to make changes. Look back over your bills to assess how much you may need to budget for in the new year.  

It’s important to understand your energy bill, and the various rates and costs each month. It can be easy to not pay much attention to the details on your energy bills, especially for time-poor business owners, but keeping an eye on consumption and costs, helps you budget and look for areas to cut costs in the future. 

Reviewing your energy usage from the year helps you identify areas to reduce energy usage which can result in significant savings for your business. 

To keep on top of your energy bills, you may also need to consider changing your energy plan to one that will better suit your business needs and budget. This may involve switching to a new energy retailer. 

For more help on keeping on top of your energy bills in the new year, check out our blog on understanding your energy bill. 

The post Budgeting for the new year: Keeping on top of your energy bills appeared first on Next Business Energy.

Here are some things to keep in mind to help reduce your energy bills during summer. 

The impact of temperature

Office spaces can become hot and stuffy in summer, which results in the air-con being turned on. Temperature can have a big impact on your energy bill, so it’s important to check the thermostat in your workplace and make sure it’s set at a comfortable temperature. 

Don’t set it too cold, as each degree you lower your air conditioning will impact your energy bill. The smaller the difference between the temperature outside and inside, the lower the energy costs from running your air-con and setting the air conditioning system at just one temperature lower, may reduce your energy costs by 10 percent. Set the temperature at a comfortable level, somewhere between 24 and 27 degrees is often best. 

Try to avoid pumping the air conditioning on high all day long, as while this may lower the temperature, it will also raise your energy bills. Be aware of the hottest periods of the day and only use your air conditioning system during those times. Use a timer so that your air-con turns on and off automatically to prevent it from running all day or being left on overnight. As well as limiting your usage to short periods, don’t bother using it to cool spaces not in use. 

It’s also recommended to get your air conditioning system serviced regularly to ensure it works at optimum efficiency. The filter can become clogged and dirty over time, which results in the system using more energy to run. You can clean the filter yourself throughout the year, but you may also want to get it properly serviced at least once or twice a year. 

Keep windows and external doors closed

When it’s hot outside, you want to keep the hot air outside, so make sure to keep all windows and external doors closed. 

Cool air escapes through open windows and external doors, with warm air coming in. This will result in wasted energy and a higher energy bill. You should also check the seals to make sure there are no leaks. Draught-proofing your building will reduce energy loss. 

When it cools down in the evenings, or a fresh breeze appears, open up the windows to help cool down your interior space and let fresh air circulate, just make sure to close up again when it gets hot. 

Use a fan

Fans are more affordable to run than air conditioning systems, using only a fraction of the amount of energy. 

While a fan doesn’t cool the air, it can create a wind chill effect that will help you stay comfortable during warmer days. They can help reduce your reliance on your air conditioning system and provide an alternative option. As with air conditioning systems however, don’t leave fans running in rooms not being occupied, as this just wastes energy. 

You can use a fan alongside your air conditioning, so you can use a low temp on the air conditioning, though try to cool a space with a fan before turning on the air-con. 

Embrace natural light

As the days grow longer, take advantage of the abundance of natural light. Invest in window treatments that will keep the heat out, while still allowing enough light to filter into your office space. 

Keep the lights off during the day, and use lamps, rather than overhead lights to light smaller spaces. 

Lights can add heat to a space, which causes you to spend more effort on cooling. Look for lighting options that operate at cooler temperatures, such as switching to more energy efficient light bulbs, which produce less heat and use less energy. 

For more energy saving tips, check out our blog on quick ways to reduce your energy usage.

The post Is your business summer ready? Energy saving tips for summer appeared first on Next Business Energy.

There are many simple and inexpensive ways to lower energy use within the workplace. Review your current energy practices and consider some of these energy saving strategies you can put in place in your own workplace. 

Computers and electrical equipment

All businesses rely on computers and technology to some capacity, and running electrical equipment adds considerably to your energy consumption and costs. 

To reduce these costs, start by choosing laptops over desktops where possible. Laptops typically use approximately 80 percent less energy than desktop computers, making them a more energy efficient option for your business. 

Monitor size contributes to energy consumption, with bigger screens using up more energy. While you may have some employees in roles which require a bigger screen, consider if some members of your team can work just as effectively from laptops. 

Most modern devices have an energy saving mode. Use energy saving features on all devices, and keep in mind that screensavers do not save energy. Ensure equipment is turned off when not in use or encourage employees to put computers in hibernation mode when stepping away from their desk, whether for a quick lunch break or a meeting, and to turn them off at the end of each day. 

Older equipment may not be very energy efficient, drawing unnecessary energy and costing you more. Upgrade all outdated equipment with more energy efficient devices. Look at energy star ratings to get the best efficiency you can afford, and keep in mind, the higher cost of purchasing more energy efficient equipment will eventually be recouped through energy savings in the long term. 

Lighting

Lighting can make up around 50 percent of your energy costs, but there are some simple ways to reduce your usage. 

Limit use of artificial lighting, especially during the day when there is plenty of natural light available. Switch off lights in meeting rooms, bathrooms, hallways, and kitchens when not occupied, and make sure all lights are turned off at the end of each working day. 

Consider investing in motion sensor lighting, so lights turn off when no one is in the room. This will help prevent them from accidentally being left on during the day or overnight. 

Where you need to keep the lights on, change over to energy efficient light bulbs that use less energy, such as LED or CFL lights. It can also help to remove excess lighting that is unnecessarily wasting energy. 

Heating and air conditioning

Control your heating and cooling to cut down on energy costs. Only use heating and cooling systems for limited periods of the day, and ensure systems are turned off at the end of the day, weekends, and holidays. 

Keep your workspace at a comfortable temperature without using excess energy, ideally 18 degrees during winter, and 25 degrees during summer. Installing timers and programmable thermostats can make it easier to maximise efficiency. 

Don’t waste energy heating or cooling spaces not being used all day, focus on areas your employees spend most of the day. Close external doors, and windows to reduce lost energy, and close blinds to keep in heat or cool air. You should also check for any energy leaks within the office where it may be being wasted. 

Regular servicing, and cleaning of filters, ducts and pipes, will help your heating and air conditioning systems work at optimum efficiency. Replace old systems with more energy efficient models. 

Promote sustainability in the workplace

Creating a culture that embraces sustainability in the workplace can improve your work culture and company reputation, as well as reduce energy costs. 

Share your sustainability goals with your employees and get them on board to contribute to energy saving practices. 

There are many practical ways to reduce energy consumption that your employees can help with that can make a big difference. Set daily reminders or place signs for employees to turn off electronic devices, computers, and lights when the workday ends. 

Creating a more energy efficient workplace provides numerous benefits, from improving your business’ sustainability to being a smart financial decision. 

For more information on saving energy in the workplace, check out our blog on whether it’s time for you to update your office appliances. 

The post Strategies for saving energy in the workplace appeared first on Next Business Energy.

Heating and cooling can account for up to 50 per cent of your business energy costs. 

Energy costs contribute to your business’s financial bottom line, so the more you can reduce your energy consumption, the more profitable your business may be. Saving energy means saving money. 

Energy-efficient heating and cooling

Investing in energy-efficient systems is an important step in minimising the impact of heating and cooling on your energy costs. 

Replace old heating and ventilation air conditioning systems with new, energy-efficient systems. Look for heating and cooling systems that will suit your workspace layout and have the right capacity for your needs. While upfront costs may be more, replacing old and inefficient systems with more energy-efficient alternatives will save you money in the long term. 

There are numerous things you can do to ensure energy efficiency within your workplace, including installing blinds or solar shades to cool your workplace, installing reflective window film or awnings on windows, installing ceiling and wall insulation, insulating water heaters and supply pipes, and testing all ducts for leakage. 

Ceiling fans cost less to run than air conditioning systems. As hot air rises, using a ceiling fan in winter can help move warm air around your premises, lowering your heating costs. Using a ceiling fan in summer can also be a more cost-effective and energy-efficient option, and if it isn’t enough to get to a comfortable temperature, it can be used in conjunction with an air conditioning system. 

Depending on the climate you’re in, heating and cooling may account for a large portion of the energy used. Maximise your energy savings and comfort by choosing the right heating and cooling systems to suit your business needs. 

Cleaning and maintenance

Regularly serviced and cleaned heating and cooling systems perform better and use energy more efficiently. 

To ensure your system operates efficiently, you should get regular maintenance from a professional. Between these appointments, you can clean the dust filters yourself to improve efficiency. 

Clean condenser coils and replace filters often. If your system has a dirty or clogged filter, this may result in higher energy consumption but less effective heating or cooling. 

You can also perform regular maintenance on units yourself. Check ducts and pipe insulation for damage or leaks, check timers are working properly, and seal draughts around doors and windows. 

Roof and wall insulation, as well as good curtains, can significantly reduce heating and cooling loads, so consider getting this installed, if you don’t already have it in place. 

Limit use

Try to limit the use of heating and cooling systems to minimise their impact on your energy consumption. 

Reduce usage during peak periods and avoid having heating or cooling units running all day. Turn off air conditioning and heating for the last hour of the work day, as your building should be able to maintain a comfortable temperature until your employees leave. 

During winter, open blinds and curtains during the early morning (especially if north or east facing) to capture heat gain from the sun, and during summer, close blinds and curtains to reduce heat gain. Closing external doors will also help contain heated or cooled air. 

Install timers or programmable thermostats to maximise efficiency. Using a timer allows you to set your system to automatically turn off, so it doesn’t get accidentally left on overnight. You may also want to ask your staff not to adjust temperature settings. 

A thermostat and timer provide control for temperature comfort and energy savings. For each degree you increase (air conditioning)  or decrease (heating) the temperature, it may save you up to ten percent of costs. 

Temperature can be one of the hardest things to manage, with different employee and customer considerations. Rather than blasting your heating or cooling, run it a lower level earlier, this can be much more efficient and effective for creating a comfortable temperature within your workplace. 

Also, make sure to only heat or cool the spaces you’re using. Don’t waste energy on areas you don’t need to, such as rooms where you don’t spend much time, such as bathrooms or hallways. 

If you’re wanting to reduce your business energy costs, check out our tips for managing your business energy this winter. 

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