The good news is that energy costs have fallen in the UK recently. According to Ofgem, the energy price cap was reduced in the last quarter of 2023, bringing a welcome reduction in the price of gas and electricity.
The bad news is that the price cap is due to increase again by some 5% early in 2024, which means that energy costs will rise at the most expensive time of year, affecting businesses and households.
For businesses, there are ways to help mitigate the rise in energy costs, and one of the most effective is the use of PVC Strip curtains.
If you’re not sure what type of PVC strip curtains would benefit your business, consider getting advice from All Strip Curtains, a UK-based company that specializes in the supply of PVC strip curtains.
Temperature Control
Energy is wasted when you can’t control heat loss. PVC strip curtains act as a barrier, helping to stabilize the temperature within your premises. They can prevent warm air from escaping during colder months and keep cooler air inside during warmer months.
By maintaining a constant temperature, your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems don’t have to work as hard trying to compensate for temperature fluctuations. This will bring benefits through reduced energy consumption and lower energy bills.
Preventing Drafts
PVC strip curtains can help to stop drafts and, therefore, help maintain an even temperature across an area by creating a physical barrier between different areas within your facility. This is especially important in large premises such as warehouses or manufacturing plants where maintaining even temperatures can be challenging.
Dust and Pest Control
PVC strip curtains form a barrier to keep out dust, debris, and pests such as insects, which can help reduce the need for expensive cleaning and pest control measures. This can indirectly save on the energy required to implement these measures.
Natural Light Efficiency
PVC strip curtains can contribute towards a more natural and comfortable working environment by partitioning off certain areas that need natural light rather than artificial lighting, which can be expensive to maintain.
Improved Space Utilisation
PVC strip curtains are used to partition off areas within a facility to optimize the use of that space fully. This can lead to better workflow organization and potentially reduce the need for more heating or cooling than is necessary for that area, which can help save on energy costs.
Provide Quick Access
PVC strip curtains come in whatever sizes are necessary and are made to measure for the openings they are designed to fit.
By the nature of their construction, this means that they are flexible and easy for personnel and machinery to pass through quickly without disrupting temperature and airflow, again saving energy costs.
Compliance With Regulations
The Health and Safety Executive lays down regulations (Workplace Health, Safety, and Welfare) regarding minimum and maximum temperatures for a safe working environment. These require employers to provide a ‘reasonable indoor temperature in the workplace’ depending on the work activity and the environmental conditions.
With the installation of PVC strip curtains, you can not only protect your employees by regulating the temperature and other conditions within the workplace, but you will also be fully compliant with current HSE regulations and potentially avoid any financial penalties.
The effectiveness of PVC strip curtains in reducing energy costs can vary depending on the size and layout of your workplace. However, by carrying out an energy audit before installation, you can identify areas where you can achieve the most significant benefits.