Almost all businesses are struggling to cope thanks to the cost-of-living crisis and surging inflation rates. One type of business that is struggling more than most is manufacturing businesses. This is because manufacturing businesses often use much more electricity and gas than other businesses. In fact, research suggests that the industry accounts for approximately 20% of America’s energy consumption. As well as this, manufacturing businesses have also seen price hikes in transport, liquid fuels, and goods and services.
Thanks to this, many manufacturing businesses are trying to find ways to cut their costs. One way they can do this is by making their business more energy efficient. If you’re part of a manufacturing business and you want to make your business more energy efficient, here are some of our top tips to help you:
1. Use Energy Efficient Equipment
One of the best ways to make a manufacturing business more energy efficient is to replace less energy-efficient equipment with newer, more energy-efficient alternatives. This includes things like electric generators and industrial mixers. It also includes things like compressed air systems.
Almost all manufacturing businesses use compressed air systems. However, evidence suggests that most of these systems are not energy efficient. In fact, research has shown that compressed air systems make up 10% of electricity consumption in the manufacturing industry. This is a staggering figure that all manufacturing companies need to be aware of.
The good news for manufacturing companies is that not all compressed air systems are equal. Some systems use much less electricity than others.
If your compressed air system is outdated and of inadequate quality, now might be the time to look into getting a new one. There are lots of excellent models out there that are more energy-efficient and cost-effective. However, before making a purchase, it’s essential to learn more about air compressors and find out how to choose one that will help your business.
2. Lighting
It’s surprising how often lights are left on when they are not needed. While you may not think that lights use a lot of energy, costs add up over time. The good news is that there are several things you can do to solve this issue. For example, you could train your employees to turn off lights when they are no longer needed, or you could install automated lighting in your business.
3. Insulation
Another great tip that will help you make your business more energy efficient is to insulate it. Insulation acts as a barrier against temperature changes. It makes it easier to keep the premises cooler in the summer and warmer in winter. By installing insulation, you can reduce the energy needed to maintain room temperature.
4. Turn Off Equipment When Not in Use
Similar to turning off lights when they are not needed, it’s also a good idea to turn off equipment when it’s not in use. This can result in significant savings.
5. Regularly Maintain Equipment
Regular maintenance and cleaning of mechanical and electrical equipment will not only help to improve the performance of the machinery, but it can also increase its lifespan. This will translate into energy efficiency savings.
6. Set Your Heating to an Optimum Temperature
Almost all manufacturing businesses could save money on their heating by reducing the temperature. In fact, evidence suggests that if you reduce the temperature by just two degrees Celsius, you will reduce your energy bills by 18%.
Due to the substantial price hikes we’ve seen over the past couple of months, many businesses are looking for ways to save money. One way they can do this is by making their companies more energy efficient. If you own a manufacturing business and want to make it more energy efficient, why not try out some of the ideas we’ve listed above?
