4 Ways to Reduce Energy Costs in your Commercial Kitchen

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4 Ways to Reduce Energy Costs with Your Commercial Kitchen Equipment and HVAC

July 19, 2023

The summer months are the busiest time of year for restaurants, but they can also be the most expensive. With the increased demand for food and drinks and outside temperatures on the rise, restaurants need to find ways to manage their energy costs without sacrificing the quality of their food or the comfort of their customers. According to studies, restaurants spend an average of $2.90 per square foot on electricity and $0.85 per square foot on natural gas annually. During the summer months, some restaurants can see energy cost increases up to 30%.

After partnering with thousands of restaurants over the years, we know how important it can be for restaurants to minimize the financial impact of energy costs and find practical ways to cool down their kitchen during the summer months. Here are a few that will work well:

1. Identify and seal up any air leaks.

Air leaks can let in hot air, which can make your HVAC unit work harder. To find air leaks, use a lit incense stick or candle and walk around your restaurant. If the smoke or flame is drawn towards a particular area, there may be an air leak there. You can seal up air leaks with caulk, weather stripping, or foam sealant.

2. Keep your kitchen equipment clean.

Grease and food particles can build up on your kitchen equipment, making it less energy efficient. Less efficient equipment means more wear and tear and also more heat. It’s important that everyone in your kitchen knows how to properly clean your restaurant equipment. You should also deep clean your equipment on a regular basis, especially heading into a particularly busy season.

3. Use energy-efficient equipment.

The biggest energy expenses for restaurants are air conditioning, refrigeration (refrigerators, freezers, ice-makers), and cooking equipment (griddles, fryers, and cooktops). The good news is that there are a number of manufacturers that have designed energy-efficient models that can help you save money on energy bills. When you’re buying new or used restaurant equipment, look for the Energy Star logo to find equipment that could save you money.

If you don’t have access to energy-efficient equipment, there are a couple of practical solutions to consider. The first is to make sure you’re using the right-sized equipment for your needs. Oversized equipment uses more energy. It can also be helpful to turn off equipment, if possible, when you're not using it.

4. Get a tune-up for your HVAC unit.

By getting an AC tune-up for your HVAC unit before summer, you can save money on energy costs by improving the efficiency of your HVAC system. A tune-up can help your HVAC unit operate more efficiently, which can save you money on your energy bills. A study by the National Restaurant Association found that restaurants that had their HVAC systems assessed each year saved hundreds of dollars annually on energy costs.

Let ATECH Optimize Your Equipment & HVAC

Whether we’re helping our customers improve the energy efficiency of their kitchen or providing practical ideas to lower operational costs, we’re always looking for ways to offer our experience to help restaurants succeed.

Many of our technicians have spent the past month with our planned maintenance customers, assessing and servicing their equipment and HVAC systems as we head into the hot summer months.

When your equipment breaks down unexpectedly or you’re looking energy saving tips for restaurants, our team is here to help. Connect with us today to discuss your specific needs.

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Spring into Cleanliness: Essential Tips for Restaurant Spring Cleaning

By markl • March 20, 2024

As the season changes and springtime blooms, it's the perfect opportunity to refresh and rejuvenate your restaurant space. Spring cleaning isn't just about tidying up; it's about ensuring a safe, welcoming environment for your patrons and staff. In this blog post, we'll explore some essential tips and best practices for restaurant cleanliness in the springtime. Embrace Deep Cleaning : Spring cleaning is the ideal time to tackle those deep cleaning tasks that may have been neglected during the busier seasons. From scrubbing floors and walls to deep cleaning kitchen equipment, thorough sanitation ensures a hygienic environment for food preparation and service. Focus on High-Traffic Areas : Pay special attention to high-traffic areas such as dining areas, restrooms, and entryways. These areas are prone to accumulating dirt, dust, and germs, making regular cleaning essential for maintaining a pristine appearance and preventing the spread of illness. Refresh Outdoor Spaces : If your restaurant has outdoor seating areas, spring is the perfect time to freshen them up. Clean outdoor furniture, sweep away debris, and power wash outdoor surfaces to create an inviting atmosphere for al fresco dining. Check and Replace Equipment Filters : Don't forget to inspect and replace filters in HVAC systems, refrigeration units, and ventilation hoods. Clean filters help maintain air quality and prevent the buildup of contaminants, ensuring a healthy indoor environment for both customers and staff. Engage Staff in Cleaning Initiatives : Encourage staff members to take pride in the cleanliness of the restaurant by involving them in spring cleaning initiatives. Assign specific tasks and provide training on proper cleaning procedures to ensure consistency and effectiveness. Implement Regular Maintenance Schedule : Establish a regular maintenance schedule to keep up with cleaning tasks throughout the year. By incorporating daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning routines, you can maintain a high standard of cleanliness and prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime. Invest in Quality Cleaning Products : Choose cleaning products that are effective yet environmentally friendly. Look for products that are certified as safe for use in foodservice establishments and follow manufacturer recommendations for proper application and usage. Monitor and Adjust Cleaning Protocols : Continuously monitor cleaning protocols and adjust as needed based on feedback, customer traffic, and changing regulations. Regular evaluation ensures that your cleaning practices remain effective and in compliance with industry standards. Spring cleaning is an essential aspect of restaurant maintenance that goes beyond just aesthetics. By implementing thorough cleaning routines, engaging staff members, and investing in quality cleaning products, you can create a safe, hygienic environment that enhances the dining experience for your customers and promotes a healthy work environment for your staff. As you embark on your spring cleaning journey, remember that ATECH is here to support you with a wide range of cleaning and maintenance solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of your restaurant. Happy spring cleaning!

Mastering Winter with ATECH: A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses

By markl • January 26, 2024

Winter is here, and at ATECH, we understand the unique challenges businesses face in keeping their commercial equipment running smoothly during the colder months. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the strategies, tips, and success stories that can help your business navigate winter effortlessly. From equipment maintenance to emergency services, consider this your go-to resource for mastering winter with ATECH. Winter Equipment Maintenance Tips Checklist for Winter-Ready Equipment: Inspect Seals and Gaskets : Ensure a tight seal to prevent cold air leakage. Check Insulation : Evaluate the insulation of walk-in coolers and freezers. Clean and Sanitize : Thoroughly clean and sanitize all equipment surfaces. Temperature Adjustment : Set optimal winter temperatures for each piece of equipment. ATech Maintenance Tips for Different Equipment: Fryers and Grills : Clean and inspect burners for efficient operation. Ice Machines : Check water lines for insulation and replace filters regularly. Heating Systems : Schedule preventive maintenance to optimize efficiency. Electronic Equipment : Keep spaces well-heated and clean to prevent malfunctions. Businesses often grapple with specific equipment failures that can disrupt operations. ATECH understands the challenges posed by heating system malfunctions, electronic equipment performance, and other issues during the colder months. To tackle these common winter-related failures, businesses should prioritize preventive measures. Regular heating system maintenance checks and air filter replacements can prevent malfunctions. For electronic equipment, maintaining ambient room temperature and conducting routine cleaning are key strategies to ensure optimal performance throughout winter. ATECH's Winter Services: A Lifeline for Your Business Winter demands a proactive approach to equipment maintenance, and ATECH stands as the lifeline for businesses navigating the challenges of the season. Our comprehensive winter services go beyond mere repair and include prompt equipment repairs, planned maintenance, and emergency services. With a commitment to same-day service for urgent winter emergencies, ATECH ensures that businesses can rely on swift resolution during critical times. What sets us apart is our team of factory-trained and CFESA-certified technicians, offering not just reliability but a dedicated partnership to keep your business running smoothly through the coldest months. Trust in ATECH, your lifeline in the winter business landscape. Winter doesn't have to be a season of uncertainty for your business. With ATECH by your side, you have a reliable partner dedicated to providing top-notch equipment repairs and maintenance services. Master winter with confidence, knowing that our comprehensive guide and expert services are here to support your business every step of the way. For personalized winter readiness assessments and expert guidance, contact ATECH today. Let's navigate winter together, and keep your business thriving.