The phrase “go green” can many different things to everyone. With climate change and global warming affecting the planet, it has become necessary for industries to make important changes to minimize their carbon footprint. In this blog, we look at some simple changes you can implement in your warehouse to make it a more efficient, and eco-friendly facility.
Develop a More Streamlined Electrical System
Several industrial settings and warehouses receive power through older electrical systems. The problem with this is that outdated electrical systems tend to waste more energy than preserve it. With a new and improved system, you and your staff could help reduce your warehouse’s electrical consumption dramatically. You can hire a contractor to help you develop an efficient and more streamlined electrical design that will benefit your warehouse.
Improve the Lighting
In addition to updated electrical systems, redesigned lighting can go a long way in making your warehouse a more sustainable and eco-friendly setting. Well-designed and updated lighting can not only keep your utility bills to a minimum but can also be beneficial to your employees and their productivity. It is recommended to look into natural light and LED lights if you’re aiming for a smaller carbon footprint. With new lighting, you and your employees can enjoy a brighter and more comfortable working environment.
Build a Cool Roofing System
Because of the materials that are used to construct warehouses, these settings tend to be rather hot and uncomfortable to work in. One way you can decrease the temperature inside your warehouse is by adding a sustainable roofing system. Cool roofs are those that are made to reflect solar radiation. These roof types are designed with light-colored reflective material. Replacing your roofing can significantly reduce the heat that is moving through the roof, which requires less energy to heat and cool spaces.
Make Sure Your Facility Has Proper Insulation
Proper insulation is extremely important to any kind of building, especially industrial warehouses. Poor insulation allows warm or cool air to escape from your building. If you’re trying to keep your employees warm in the colder months or cool in the warmer months, you may find yourself having a hard time doing so. This can also drive your HVAC bills and increase your warehouse’s impact on the environment. To prevent wear and tear on your HVAC, start looking into new insulation for your facility.
Use Electric Equipment to Limit Propane-Powered Equipment
Another great way you can minimize your carbon footprint on the environment is by shifting to electric equipment. According to research, approximately sixty percent of industries in the North American market are getting rid of propane-powered equipment and are opting for electric equipment instead. Electric equipment in warehouses use large batteries instead of diesel fuel or gas. These batteries usually range from twenty-four to eighty volts, making them economical and energy-efficient.
Expand Upward, Not Outward
You may find the need to expand your warehouse as your staff grows. To best maintain your warehouse, you should consider ways in which you can build upward instead of outward. Building upward requires less surface area, and doing so can allow to put off relocating to a larger warehouse, which would require more power to operate. Needless to say, expanding upward allows you to maximize the space you already have.
Have High Volume, Low Speed (HVLS) Fans Installed
HVAC units are often the main source of high electricity bills in industrial settings. Of course, many factors come into play such as electrical systems and insulation, but the fault mainly lands on old, worn-out HVAC units. The lack of proper airflow causes HVAC units to work two to three times harder than they should. The solution to this is simple: opt for HVLS fans. These fans rely on size, not speed, to move a significant amount of air throughout the facility. These fans can help cut on energy spending in warehouses everywhere.
Consider Solar Panels
If it’s not the airflow and insulation you’re worried about, it’s got to be the electricity usage that you’re most concerned about. Solar panels are some of the most reliable and cleanest energy sources available for any kind of infrastructure. They have grown in popularity for helping customers save on energy expenses. While the initial price of solar panels may seem a bit high, they promise a return on investment in the long run, including low electricity costs.
Maintain Your Warehouse and Infrastructure with C & E Industrial
Review and analyze the different areas in your warehouse. This way, you can learn more about how to make your facility more efficient. If you’re looking for environmentally-friendly solutions, we’d love to help! Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your warehouse and industrial needs.
