As we progress further into winter, businesses across the UK are bracing for the inevitable surge in energy costs, particularly in commercial kitchens where energy consumption is high. Here at Acme, we are a leading UK contractor specialising in the design, installation, and maintenance of commercial kitchens, supporting companies UK-wide. With our knowledge and expertise, we understand the importance of optimising energy use. In this blog, we share invaluable tips on how to significantly cut down on energy costs in your commercial kitchen, ensuring your business remains sustainable and cost-effective.
1. Conduct an Energy Audit
Start by assessing your current energy consumption to identify areas for improvement. An energy audit will give you a clear picture of where energy is being wasted and help you make informed decisions on how to reduce consumption. Assess your energy bills, identify small changes such as swapping to energy-efficient light bulbs, monitor your equipment’s performance, and so on.
2. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Equipment
Outdated kitchen appliances are often energy guzzlers and can be the number one culprit for increased energy consumption. Investing in modern, energy-efficient equipment can lead to substantial savings in the long run. Look for appliances with an Energy Star rating, as these are designed to meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by environmental agencies. Here at Acme, our range of commercial kitchen equipment is selected for its energy efficiency and performance. We work closely with distribution partners to bring only A & A+ equipment, helping you make a cost-effective transition.
3. Regular Maintenance and Cleaning
Whilst this is quite an obvious tip, hectic businesses forget the importance of regular maintenance and might not clean equipment as frequently as they should. Ensuring your kitchen equipment is well-maintained is crucial for optimal performance. The build-up of dirt and grease can cause appliances to work harder, leading to increased energy consumption. Forming a cleaning routine will also help you to identify issues with your equipment, preventing costly repairs or replacements down the line.
4. Implement Smart Cooking Practices
Train your kitchen staff in energy-saving cooking practices. Simple changes such as using lids on pots to speed up cooking times and using the correct size burner can make a huge impact. Additionally, putting appliances on standby can waste a substantial amount of energy, so it is important to turn equipment off, especially when not used regularly.
5. Use LED Lighting
Lighting can account for a significant portion of a commercial kitchen’s energy bill. LED lighting uses up to 90% less energy when compared to regular bulbs, so switching to these can help save you money without compromising on brightness. Ensure lights are turned off when not needed and consider installing motion sensors in less frequently used areas.
6. Monitor Refrigeration Units
Refrigeration units are one of the largest energy consumers in terms of kitchen equipment, using up to 30% of your kitchen energy. It is important to set fridges and freezers to the correct temperature and frequently check seals and gaskets for leaks. If you notice food spoiling or your refrigerator is not cold enough, your unit might have a broken seal or a damaged door that will need to be repaired. Positioning refrigeration units away from heat sources and ensuring they have adequate ventilation can also improve efficiency.
7. Utilise Your Dishwasher Properly
Dishwashers play a pivotal role in your kitchen’s functionality, so they must operate efficiently. Ensure that your dishwasher is fully loaded and properly organised before starting a cycle; overcrowding can result in inadequate cleaning, potentially necessitating a second wash and thus consuming additional energy. Although washing glassware, cutlery, and tableware in the sink offers a quick solution, you can end up wasting a lot of water, so use your dishwasher wherever possible.
8. Encourage a Culture of Energy Awareness
Fostering a culture of energy awareness among your staff is crucial. Encourage practices such as switching off lights and equipment, and being mindful of energy use during peak hours.
By implementing these tips and investing in energy-efficient solutions, you can make a tangible difference to your energy bills this winter and beyond. Whether you are looking to build a kitchen from scratch or just re-evaluating your current equipment, Acme is here to help! We are here to support you every step of the way, offering tailored solutions and expert advice to create a kitchen space that is functional, stylish, and economical. Contact us today on 01254 277 999 to find out how we can help you achieve significant energy savings in your commercial kitchen.
