Ten top tips to save money on energy

The recent news that energy prices are rising yet again should act as another warning to businesses to make sure they aren't paying over the odds for electricity and gas.

If you've taken our advice in the past, you are likely to be signed up on a fixed price contract for the next year or more - a good move when the market trends are driving the cost of energy upwards.   

If not, don't forget that Spiral offers a free no obligation price check service on electricity and gas - simply fax us two recent bills and details of your contract renewal date and we'll do the rest.

In the meantime, are there any other ways in which you could reduce the amount you pay for your energy supplies?  Take a look around your office - the answer could be staring you in the face.

Here are our top ten tips to save money in your office:

Carry out spot checks

Walk around your office or site during quiet periods, such as early morning or lunchtime.  Are lights, machinery or equipment turned on and not in use?

Talk to employees

Make sure you talk to everyone about conserving energy - individuals may be aware of energy wastage in a certain area, or have suggestions as to how to conserve it in their part of the building.

Switch off equipment when it's not in use

Make sure that employees switch off their PC's and printers when they go home at night, and don't leave them on standby mode.

Utilise energy saving features of office equipment

Make sure that PC monitors, photocopiers and printers are set to go into standby mode when not being used during the day.  This will reduce energy wastage, and extend the life of the equipment.

Pull the plug on unused appliances

Make sure that infrequently used appliances are unplugged.  Items such as televisions continue to draw power even when turned off.

Consider energy efficiency when buying new equipment

Check details of energy consumption when looking to buy new office equipment.  This information should be available from the manufacturer's specification sheets.

Switch lights off whenever possible

While you must ensure there is enough light available for employees to complete their duties, everyone should be encouraged to turn lights off after use.  Ask security staff and cleaners if they have instructions to turn off lighting outside of normal working hours.   

Cut down on unnecessary and inefficient lighting

Maximise the use of daylight to reduce the use of lights in the summer months, and monitor the use of exterior and stairway lighting.  Are lights on 24/7 and if so, is that necessary?  In all cases where lighting is needed, investigate the possibility of using energy efficient lights and bulbs - it could save you money in the long term.

Charging appliances

If you use equipment or appliances that need charging, such as portable tools or mobile phones, don't leave them charging unnecessarily and unplug the chargers when not in use.

Check for draughts

Draughts can contribute to you using more energy to heat your premises.  Make sure doors and windows are effectively sealed and properly closed, and don't forget that areas around electrical boxes, plumbing fixtures and even attic hatches can have air paths to the outside.