S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y
14
Winter 2014 Issue
ONE HUNGRY PIGLET: LIGHTING
It may be astonishing to realize that something that makes no
sound and is activated by the mere flip of the switch consumes
an average of 13 percent of the shared power load in an
otherwise heavily mechanized restaurant. Heat output due to
inefficient lighting often compounds costs.
Something seemingly so simple requires great thought in a
business where illumination plays a role in making one’s food
attractive. Modern LED lighting helps this while reducing
energy consumption and heat output. But sometimes
decorative LED lamp designs can be a bit burdensome to keep
clean, so be sure to balance style with substance when making
your selection.
THE PIG THAT HATES HEAT: REFRIGERATION
While refrigeration consumes the smallest share of a restaurants
power supply, it can be among the biggest energy wasters if
not properly used and maintained. Even when compressors
and condensers are serviced professionally, simple issues like
cracked, leaky gaskets or obstructed blower fans are regularly
overlooked.
Using refrigeration as a means of quick-cooling hot food can
also tax already overworked units. Helping refrigerators and
freezers operate optimally is often a matter of remaining
vigilant in addressing simple problems and then seeking expert
repair as soon as possible.
Below are several resources where you can learn more about lowering your power
costs and saving energy:
On a schedule:
Create a schedule to start up and shut down kitchen
equipment using these resources:
* Here’s a video:
* Here’s a tip sheet:
In the hood:
Visit this link to watch a video
with tips on maximizing exhaust hood capture.
Keep it cool:
Visit this link to learn more
about preventative maintenance programs
for HVAC units.
Keep it cool 2:
Visit this link to see multiple tips on how to ensure your
refrigerators run optimally
Time to modernize:
Visit this link to learn more about new energy-saving.
Keep it light:
Reduce your lighting costs with
these helpful suggestions.
Dry hands, lower costs:
Energy efficient hand dryers reduce landfill waste
and keep restrooms clean. Check out these two resources:
A video:
A tip sheet:
By Steve Coomes
Contributing Writer
