Q: How can I make sure my business is prepared for winter?
Dec 12 2011
Answered by: James Colman Ask a question
More than a third of businesses are seriously disrupted by the cold weather every winter, often due to boiler or central heating breakdowns. However, many of these breakdowns can be avoided if businesses take simple measures to maintain their gas and electrical equipment.
Businesses should start by giving their boiler a health check before winter sets in. The older your boiler the more inefficient it will be – new energy efficient boilers can help you cut your heating bill by up to 20 per cent per year. Your heating appliances should also be serviced once a year by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Run your central heating on full to check that your radiators heat up properly. If you can feel any cold spots, especially at the top, they may need bleeding. Bleeding your radiators is a simple task that will make your business warmer and your central heating system more efficient.
Also, check that your pipes are not too exposed to the cold. You should lag water tanks and pipes to conserve heat and prevent freezing. If you rely on drainage systems, then make sure they are clear as winter is the time they are most likely to get blocked.
The amount businesses spend on energy goes up significantly in winter, so think how you can cut costs through simple efficiency measures. Lighting accounts for 25 per cent of a company's total electricity bill. Energy efficient lighting can help to cut these costs by up to a third. Use standby power savers that automatically turn appliances off, such as computer equipment, when it’s not being used. Each of these will save around £30 a year on your energy bills. Also speak to your provider about getting a smart meter.This will allow you to pay accurate bills based on accurate readings and give you valuable insight into your energy use allowing you to take measures to reduce it.
Finally, have a back-up plan by making sure your business is covered by a Service & Maintenance contract. Use a trusted brand and seek assurances that engineer will be on site quickly if something does go wrong with your gas appliances or electrical installation. Putting this plan in place now can prevent a breakdown turning into a debilitating business crisis later on.
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