Optimising Business Energy Use in Launderettes

Any business, large or small, and regardless of its nature, finds that the cost of energy consumption is one of its major expenses. When it comes to running a laundrette, this is especially relevant. The nature of this business involves high levels of energy consumption for the actual running of the washing machines and tumble dryers. In addition, water is used which needs heating and the building itself requires lighting, heating or cooling, and there may be other incidental sources of energy consumption, e.g. ironing, a vending machine, a water cooler, etc.

As energy costs continue to rise it is worthwhile considering how the consumption of business electricity and/or gas can be minimized in order to maintain the profitability of the laundrette.

Before looking at the actual machines used, think about the building itself. Is the temperature control of the premises optimal? Double-glazing of windows and insulation of ceilings are significantly effective in this. Ensure that energy-efficient lighting is used, rather than incandescent light bulbs. Being environmentally conscious in electricity production and use, has the added benefit of reducing costs, e.g. solar energy can be used to heat water, and room temperature.

The choice of washing machines and tumble dryers for the laundrette is another important area. It pays to ensure that the machines are in good condition and regularly serviced, as machines which are operating sub-optimally tend to result in higher energy-consumption, by way of longer, slower washing and drying cycles, and less effective laundering.

When replacing or buying new machines, look for machines that are proven to be effective and energy-efficient. If the washing machines and tumble dryers function at high speed with shorter cycle times (while still offering excellent washing results), the reduced electricity use is going to be obvious. It does also have the added benefit of greater customer satisfaction, and time available for the machines to be more frequently used in a day.

Both washing machines and tumble dryers are available now which help to reduce their own energy consumption, by means of recycling otherwise wasted heat. The draining hot water from a washing machine can run through an Energy Optimiser, which is used to transfer heat to the incoming cold rinsing water. Where these are used in laundrettes with washing machines running fairly continually, the energy saving can be as much as 50%.

Tumble dryers need to have maximal airflow, and some dryers are manufactured with sensors to shorten operating time, according to the moisture content of the contents of the machine.

With careful planning, it is possible to run a laundrette in the most cost-effective (and therefore profitable) manner, while providing an excellent service to customers, and having the least negative impact on the environment.