Businesses are racking up unnecessary costs every year due to so-called ‘vampire appliances’—devices that continue to consume power even when not in active use, a new study by Sustain Commercial Solar has found.
The study, which examined the most energy-draining appliances in UK businesses, found that small businesses employing between 10 and 15 people may unnecessarily waste more than £900 (€1,080) annually, while firms with 100 or more employees could see losses exceed £6,900 (€8,280).
With this in mind, Sustain Commercial Solar has identified the top ten offenders when it comes to standby energy consumption, which small businesses should seek to turn off when not in use.
Top 10 appliances small businesses should turn off to save energy
1 – HVAC systems. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems could cost businesses up to £1,182.60 (€1,419.12) per year, according to the study.
2 – Computers and laptops. Placing computers on standby rather than turning them off could cost businesses £630 (€756) per year.
3 – Office lighting and signage. If not switched off, office lighting can add £486 (€583.20) to annual energy bills.
4 – Phone systems. A largely silent culprit, phone systems can add £473.04 (€567.65) per year.
5 – Fridges and freezers. Turning these off might be a no-go for many offices, but leaving them on wastes approximately £354.87 (€425.84) per year.
6 – Microwaves. When not in use, microwaves drain around £248.35 (€298.02) each year when left plugged in.
7 – Smart TVs and display screens. Kept on standby, TVs and display screens can increase bills by £212.87 (€255.44) annually.
8 – Printers. If left on, printers can consume an estimated £157.68 (€189.22) per year.
9 – Digital displays/games consoles. If left on standby mode, digital displays can lead to losses of £157.68 (€189.22) per year.
10 – Coffee machines. Another hidden cost, coffee machines can add £35.48 (€42.58) per year.
‘A huge opportunity’
“Many businesses are unknowingly spending thousands on energy they’re not even using,” commented Jani Moran, commercial director at Sustain Commercial Solar. “This study highlights a huge opportunity for cost savings with minimal effort.
“It’s shocking to see the amount of wasted money that could otherwise be reinvested into business growth and sustainability initiatives. Three simple but effective ways businesses can curb their energy waste include encouraging employees to switch off non-essential devices at the end of the day for immediate savings, switching to LED lighting, and upgrading to smart HVAC systems and energy-efficient office devices to reduce power consumption.” Read more here.
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