As a grocery or convenience store owner, you know first-hand the challenges for small business. But, did you know that Energy Star has resources to help you profile your store’s energy use, specific tips to conserve and save and additional resources?
Refrigeration may use up to 40 percent of the property’s total energy according to Energy Star. It is important to maintain refrigeration systems and learn about energy-efficient options that are available. The following are tips designed specifically for grocery and convenience stores:
- Clean the cooling coils on the backs of all units regularly. Dirt accumulation can impair proper heat transfer and lower the unit’s efficiency.
- Check the temperature of all units. If the temperature is set lower than necessary, you are wasting energy.
- Ensure that all door seals close tightly. If you can easily slide a dollar bill out of the seal, have the seal adjusted.
- Keep doors of all refrigeration and freezer units shut as much as possible. This can cause a drop in temperature.
Heating and cooling is also a major energy expense. For more information, see Energy Star’s Guide to Energy-Efficient Heating and Cooling. Here are some tips you can use in your retail space:
- Change your air filters regularly. A dirty filter will slow down air flow and make the system work harder, using more energy.
- Tune up your HVAC units yearly. Use the Energy Star Maintenance Checklist as a guide.
- Install programmable thermostats.
- Check seals on your heating and cooling ducts. This can improve efficiency by as much as 20 percent or more.
Singing River Electric is your trusted source for energy information. For more information visit SRE’s My Business website and Energy Star’s Tips for Small Businesses.
Also, you can contact an energy expert that can partner with you to find just the right resources by visiting singingriver.com/my-business.