Understanding Energy Star Labels: A Guide for Commercial Kitchen Owners

Commercial kitchens are full of hustle and bustle, playing a pivotal role in the food service industry. While staff stay on top of creating delicious dishes, they also rely on numerous appliances to keep operations running smoothly. Although many of these pieces of equipment are necessary for kitchen functionality, electricity costs in these establishments can be high. From running outdated equipment to powering up necessary appliances, the importance of energy efficiency in commercial kitchens cannot be overstated.

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on energy efficiency within the food service industry, both for cost-saving purposes and for reducing environmental footprints. One essential way this can be achieved is by installing equipment that bears the Energy Star certification. What is this distinction, and why does it matter? Read on to find out.

What is Energy Star Certification?

Energy Star is a well-recognized certification program that sets the standard for energy efficiency in various industries, including homes, commercial buildings, and appliances. It is a government-backed initiative primarily administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). This program was established to promote energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by identifying and endorsing energy-efficient products and practices.

The Components of the Energy Star Label

Products that meet Energy Star requirements are emblazoned with a label to help distinguish them. Energy Star labels are your key to identifying energy-efficient equipment and are typically blue or black with the appropriately trademarked logo. In some cases, these labels are accompanied by additional information, including the equipment's energy consumption, efficiency, and environmental impact. They may include:

• Energy Usage: This section indicates how much energy the equipment consumes annually, allowing you to estimate operating costs.
• Efficiency Rating: The label displays an efficiency rating, often expressed as a percentage. Higher percentages signify better efficiency.
• Estimated Yearly Operating Cost: This provides an estimate of the equipment's annual energy expenses.
• Environmental Impact: The label may include information about the equipment's environmental impact, such as greenhouse gas emissions, helping you make eco-conscious choices.
• Key Features: Some labels highlight specific features contributing to energy efficiency, such as advanced insulation or efficient motors.

Benefits of Energy Star-certified Kitchen Equipment

Investing in Energy Star-certified kitchen equipment offers numerous advantages for commercial kitchen owners. Although you may be hesitant to upgrade your equipment, especially if your current appliances are working well, there are more benefits to doing so in the long run:

• Cost Savings: Part of the purpose of the Energy Star certification is innovation in equipment manufacturing and promoting the use of energy-efficient parts, which can significantly reduce energy bills and positively impact your bottom line.
• Environmental Benefits: Whether you have processes in place to minimize your commercial kitchen’s carbon footprint or are looking for a way to start, Energy Star appliances contribute to sustainability efforts through reduced energy consumption.
• Rebates and Incentives: In Canada and the U.S., there are rebate programs available to lessen the upfront costs of purchasing Energy Star-rated equipment. Some regions may also offer incentives or tax credits, further reducing costs.

Interpreting Energy Star Labels for Specific Equipment

Different kitchen equipment have unique Energy Star labels specifically pertaining to the aspects that make it a better choice than the standard options. When evaluating them, focus on the specific information relevant to their function and your kitchen's needs. 

• Commercial Dishwashers. When evaluating Energy Star commercial dishwashers, focus on annual energy consumption (kWh), water usage, cycle times, and efficiency ratings. Consider features like soil-sensing technology and heat recovery systems. These details guide you towards energy-efficient models that suit your kitchen's needs.
• Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers. For Energy Star commercial fridges and freezers, prioritize lower annual energy consumption (kWh) and appropriate size and capacity. Look for precise temperature control, automatic defrost systems, good door seals, and adjustable shelving. Efficiency ratings, anti-sweat heaters, LED lighting, and energy-saving features also play a key role in energy-efficient choices.

Energy Star in Commercial Kitchen Design

When introducing new equipment into your operations, conducting a comprehensive review is vital to select the most suitable option for your existing kitchen design. Start by examining key dimensions like height, width, and depth, and account for any variations when comparing them to your current equipment.

Additionally, evaluate the overall flow and layout of your kitchen. Ensure that the new appliance seamlessly integrates into the workspace without disrupting workflow. If needed, make layout adjustments before finalizing your purchase.

Furthermore, take the opportunity to align your new appliance acquisition with broader sustainability initiatives. Consider implementing eco-friendly practices that complement or coincide with your purchase. This holistic approach not only maximizes the benefits of energy-efficient equipment but also contributes to a more environmentally conscious and cost-effective kitchen operation.

Tips for Choosing Energy Star-certified Appliances

When selecting Energy Star-rated equipment, consider the same factors you would regarding the overall functionality of the appliance. This can include:

• Size: Ensure that the equipment fits seamlessly into your kitchen layout. A piece of equipment that's too large can lead to inefficient use of space and energy, while one that's too small might not suffice for your needs.
• Capacity: Evaluate whether the equipment's capacity aligns with your kitchen's workload. Overly small equipment may result in frequent usage and energy consumption, while oversized equipment might lead to energy wastage during periods of lower demand.
• Kitchen Needs: Consider the unique demands of your commercial kitchen. Think about the types of dishes you prepare, your daily production volumes, and the kitchen's workflow. Equipment should be selected to enhance productivity while still meeting energy efficiency standards.

Maintaining Energy Efficiency

Preserving the energy efficiency of your kitchen equipment is a crucial endeavour that demands consistent attention. To achieve this, it's imperative to establish and adhere to a set of best practices. 

Regular maintenance and cleaning routines are pivotal in maintaining the optimal performance and energy savings that energy-efficient appliances promise. By following these best practices, your equipment operates at its highest efficiency, extending its lifespan.

1. Maintenance involves inspecting equipment for wear and tear, replacing worn parts, and ensuring all components function correctly. 
2. Routine cleaning helps prevent the buildup of grease, dirt, and debris, which can impair equipment efficiency.

Shop Zanduco for Energy Star Equipment

In a world increasingly concerned with energy efficiency and sustainability, Energy Star-certified equipment presents a unique opportunity for commercial kitchen owners. Incorporating these appliances into your establishment will create positive ripple effects throughout other areas of your business and help you stay ahead of the game as it relates to energy consumption. 

At Zanduco, we carry numerous brands known for manufacturing Energy Star-rated equipment. You can browse our full selection, or if you want helpful advice on choosing your next Energy Star-rated appliance, reach out to us! We’re happy to provide you with tips to make the best decision for your business.