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When it comes to running a successful pub, managing costs is a top priority, especially energy costs. With pubs and restaurants having had the highest electricity consumption of any buildings being used for non-domestic purposes in 2022, it’s clear that the pub industry often faces high energy consumption, leading to significant monthly bills. But here’s the good news: there are effective strategies you can implement to save energy and cut costs in your pub.
At Trail, we provide effective work management solutions specifically designed for hospitality. Our software helps pub operators streamline their operations, track energy usage and ensure compliance with industry standards. With our integration with Carbon Statement, we understand the unique challenges you face when it comes to reducing energy consumption in your venue, so in this article, we’ll delve into some practical tips that can help you manage your pub energy costs.
Before diving into savings, it’s crucial to understand where your energy is being spent. Pubs typically use significant energy in areas like lighting, refrigeration and heating. Lighting, for example, can account for a large portion of your energy bill, especially if traditional bulbs are still in use. Refrigeration is another critical area; keeping drinks cold is essential, but inefficient systems can lead to unnecessary waste, and managing your heating and cooling systems effectively is vital for maintaining a comfortable environment for your guests.
Identifying energy-wasting habits and inefficiencies in these areas is the first step toward reducing costs. Regular monitoring of your pub energy use can provide valuable insights into how to optimise consumption over time. But what are some other steps you can take?
Reducing your pub’s energy consumption doesn’t have to mean compromising the quality of your offering. By adopting these seven straightforward tips, you can make a real impact on energy costs:
While many pub operators have heard about the benefits of switching to LED lighting, misconceptions often hold them back. You might still be relying on halogen bulbs, thinking the upfront costs are prohibitive. However, LEDs do consume up to 75% less energy and last significantly longer, leading to substantial savings over time. If you’re unsure about making the switch, consider using a cost comparison tool to see the potential savings you could be making, before making a decision.
Switching to a smart thermostat can reduce your heating and cooling costs by up to 8% by adjusting temperatures based on occupancy. If the initial investment feels daunting, consider the long-term savings and enhanced control over your energy use.
Timers and motion sensors for outdoor heating and decorative lighting might come with an additional upfront cost, but they pay off by making sure lights and heating are only on when they’re needed. Many models are easy to install and can be integrated seamlessly into your existing setups, which makes them a no-brainer if you’re looking to save on your energy bills.
Regular maintenance is often overlooked due to busy schedules. But setting a daily cleaning checklist can help ensure your refrigeration systems are operating efficiently. Look for signs of wear and tear; if your equipment is several years old, it may be time to assess its efficiency. A simple evaluation of energy bills can reveal if your current units are costing more than investing in an upgrade.
Many pub operators may hold onto older cooking equipment, thinking it’s still functional. However, cookers and dishwashers over a certain age can be drastically less efficient. Upgrading to energy-efficient models not only reduces energy consumption but often improves cooking speed and quality. Use your Trail app to create a timeline for assessing equipment age and efficiency, making it easier to budget for upgrades.
Energy-efficient dishwashers are crucial, particularly because the dishwasher needs to reach the correct temperature to clean dishes effectively. Regular scheduled cycles and dishwasher checks can help you to keep your dishwasher running effectively and avoid running too often or when not filled. Additionally, if your dishwasher is older than 10 years, consider checking its energy efficiency rating—upgrading may be more beneficial than you think.
Properly maintaining your beer cellar is vital, yet it can be easy to overlook. Make sure you’re carrying out regular cellar checks of insulation and ventilation. If your cooling systems are outdated, they may be working harder and consuming more energy. Conducting a simple efficiency review can help determine if an upgrade is warranted.
For more substantial savings, consider implementing some long-term energy solutions when the time's right. By switching to solar panels, hospitality businesses could expect to save around £48,000 annually, showing how investing in renewable energy sources can drastically reduce your energy costs over time.
When refurbishing your pub, consider which energy efficient improvements you could make to enhance sustainability and lower your carbon footprint. Regular energy audits can also help identify inefficiencies and allow you to take advantage of government incentives for energy upgrades.
In this article, we’ve explored some highly effective energy-saving tips to help your pub cut costs and improve efficiency. From simple changes in lighting to long-term investments in renewable energy, every effort counts. We also touched on how technology can make all of this easier.
Trail app is designed to simplify daily operations for pub operators, integrating energy management directly into your workflow. With Trail, you can monitor essential tasks, track energy-saving progress and reinforce efficient practices seamlessly. Our app enables proactive management with reminders for maintenance tasks, ensuring refrigeration and other high-energy equipment run efficiently.
Plus, through our integration with Carbon Statement, Trail also provides real-time, actionable insights into your pub's energy and carbon usage. This integration delivers weekly reports on consumption trends and highlights areas of high usage, allowing pub operators to make informed adjustments that reduce energy waste and lower costs over time.
Ready to take the next step? Find out how we can help you manage your energy costs more effectively and create a more sustainable pub environment. Book your demo now.
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