Operating your Restaurant in a tough economy. Lowering your overhead will increase your profits. 15 small steps when added together could make a big difference to your bottom line especially over the long haul and might be the difference in your long term survival.

Look over the physical traits of your business and the condition of your building and determine a plan of action to economize your operation such as:

a.

Install motion detector lighting in storerooms, restrooms, coolers and anywhere else where they would be feasible.

b.

Change light bulbs from incandescent to Florescent or LED lights in all fixtures that remain on for extended periods including exit signs.

c.

Uses timers where possible to make sure lights are not on unnecessarily.

d.

Schedule regular maintenance and thorough cleaning of all equipment. Clean and, well maintained equipment cost less to operate and won’t have to be repaired or replaced as often.

e.

Unplug or at least turn off any equipment, appliances or electronics when not in use. Several computers left on and unused for long periods still consume power as do TV or computer monitors left on when no one is looking at them.

f.

Keep your AC and heating equipment clean and filters changed on a regular schedule. These are some of the largest energy users in Texas. Consider electronic thermostats and locking boxes to control access to unnecessarily warm or cool settings. Use fans to help control temperature and move air around your business.

g.

Window tint, blinds and interior and exterior shades can reduce AC cost significantly. Stop air leaks around windows and doors with caulking and weather stripping.

h.

Fix water drips and leaks regularly. Consider motion activated faucets in restrooms. Switch to tank-less water heaters, low flow toilets and waterless urinals. Run dishwashers and washing machines only when full.

i.

When you have to buy or replace equipment, purchase the most energy efficient unit you can afford.

j.

Use a broom or blower to clean your sidewalks, porches and parking areas instead of a water hose.

k.

Shrubs and trees planted to shade the outside of the structure and parking areas without compromising security or negatively affecting visibility help lower energy consumption and maintenance cost as well as being aesthetically appealing.

l.

Install sprinkler systems for plants and set to water at night to eliminate evaporation. Regularly inspect for repairs and to eliminate watering of parking lots sidewalks etc. Many cities such as Arlington, Fort Worth, Dallas etc. are considering fines for wasteful watering.

m.

Increase the use of reusable products where possible such as cloth napkins instead of paper. Recycle all paper, plastic, glass, & aluminum. Consider air drying table cloths, cup towels, dish rags etc.

n.

If you own your building look into energy efficient windows, reflective roofing, passive lighting including sky lights and solar or wind energy alternatives.