Like many business owners, Ansley Watson is always looking for ways to manage operating costs. When electric bills at Mother's Restaurant came in higher than expected, he turned to Tampa Electric's free business energy audit to better understand the restaurant's energy use and identify potential savings opportunities.
"If you save energy, you're going to end up saving money and that's the whole goal," said Mr. Watson.
Like many Florida restaurants and small businesses, Mother's Restaurant relies on air conditioning, refrigeration and kitchen equipment that operate throughout the day. Even small inefficiencies can increase energy use. Tampa Electric’s free commercial energy audit helps business owners understand how energy is being used, identify energy-saving opportunities and learn about available rebates and incentives.
During the audit, Roberto Thompson, a Tampa Electric certified energy analyst, reviewed the restaurant's equipment and operations, evaluated the exhaust system and used a thermal camera to look for cooling leaks in the walk-in coolers and refrigerators. One opportunity quickly stood out: the thermostats controlling the dining room were in a small office near the kitchen, where temperatures didn’t accurately reflect conditions in the customer seating area.
For Mr. Watson, the process was straightforward.
"I'm hopeful and optimistic that Mother's Restaurant can achieve some real energy and dollar savings as a result of the audit performed by Tampa Electric."
Following the audit, Mother's Restaurant implemented two improvements. The restaurant upgraded its thermostat system by adding sensors in the dining room to manage cooling better and resealed worn gaskets around the walk-in cooler door to help prevent cold air loss.
The audit identified opportunities in areas many businesses rely on every day, including cooling systems and refrigeration equipment.
Whether you're operating a restaurant, retail store, office or manufacturing facility, understanding how equipment, cooling systems and daily operations affect energy use can improve efficiency and help your bottom line. As part of Tampa Electric's free business energy audit, our certified energy analysts provide free customized recommendations tailored to each business.
Request your free business energy audit
Ready to uncover energy-saving opportunities and reduce energy use at your business? Tampa Electric's free business energy audit provides personalized recommendations for restaurants, retail stores, offices, manufacturing facilities and other commercial customers. Request your free audit or call 813-275-3909 today.