It’s time to start thinking about business expenses in a COVID-normal world.
Many businesses will likely continue to look for potential cost savings following the changes and challenges of 2020.
Office appliances are one key area that can often be overlooked. They are purchased once, and generally not again considered until they break down.
Review current appliances
When was the last time you did an audit of your office appliances? Have you checked their energy ratings?
Do an audit of all your office appliances and equipment. You may have some old appliances and equipment that needs replacing and are no longer as efficient. The older the equipment, the more it may be costing you in energy usage.
Invest in the most efficient appliances you can, as they may provide you with better long term savings through energy usage. Better quality appliances may not need to be updated as regularly.
Your business may have evolved in 2020, and your existing appliances may not be serving your needs. Some offices will be going through significant changes, with many workers returning to the office for the first time in months. This could mean your appliance needs have changed.
Reassessing your office needs may help ensure you have the right appliances and equipment to suit your business.
Reduce unnecessary appliances and equipment
Many businesses may have decided to continue with flexible working arrangements, with employees working from home part-time or full-time. This will require adjustments to your office space.
If you have fewer employees in your office, you may want to downsize your appliances and equipment. Remove what is not needed, especially devices that are generally left on and may be using up energy you don’t need.
Computer monitors are an excellent example of office equipment that uses a lot of energy. Many people leave their computers on even when they’re not using them or put them on standby, which still uses a significant amount of energy. If you have fewer employees in the office, there are probably monitors that can be removed, or if you have team members who only come into the office a few days a week, it may be better for them to use a laptop rather than a desktop computer. Laptops use a lot less energy than desktops and may help you save on your energy bills.
Updating your office appliances is important
It will be more important than ever to pay close attention to your business expenses following the challenges of COVID in 2020.
Many people spent very little time working in their office last year, so now is a good time to consider your future business needs, update your appliances and make sure you have everything you need to tackle the new year.
Updating your office appliances may have a positive impact on your energy usage and help reduce your bills. It can also provide additional benefits such as increasing productivity and employee satisfaction to have efficient appliances and equipment.
Check out our blog on the worst appliances for energy consumption to see where you may be able to save.