Tips for restaurants

To increase the energy efficiency of your restaurant, look first at your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Upgrading to energy-efficient air conditioners, for example, could lower air conditioning costs by 30%. Here are more ways to save energy in your eatery:

• Use recommended thermostat set points. In summer, set the thermostat at 25°C during work hours and 28°C after hours; each degree you raise it can lower your air conditioning costs by up to 2%. In winter, set it at 20°C during work hours and 17°C after hours.  
• Install a programmable thermostat. Save up to 10% on your energy bill!
• Keep doors and windows closed when your air conditioning is on.
• Turn exhaust hoods off when possible.
• Load up your dishwasher before you turn it on — it uses the same amount of water empty or full.
• Make sure your oven and fridge doors fit tightly and gaskets are in good condition.
• Use high-velocity, low-flow kitchen sprayers — save up to $1,000 a year in hot water costs.
• Use high-efficiency griddles and fryers and lower energy use by up to 30%.
• Buy insulated cooking equipment like fryers, ovens, and coffee machines — they retain heat better.
• Don't overload fryer baskets — it increases cooking time.
• Turn off any equipment that is idle.