Going green can be a wonderful choice for laundromat owners on multiple levels. First, of course, it reduces your company’s negative impact on the environment. Second, it can help you feel proud of your company’s values and its place in the wider world. Third, it can attract environmentally conscious customers who are also concerned about their ecological footprint. Fourth, it may help your company save money by reducing energy usage. Adopting green practices can be an effective way to merge profitability with environmental responsibility. Scroll down to learn how to create an eco-friendly laundromat.
Choose Energy-Efficient Machines
Equipment is the foundation of any laundromat, so it makes sense to start here. As you explore possible washers and dryers, look for machines that provide a superior clean while using less water, energy, and detergent. One great way to accomplish this is to only choose machines with an ENERGY STAR label. ENERGY STAR-certified washers use about 20 percent less energy and 30 percent less water than conventional washing machines. Plus, over their lifetime, they can save you about $500 in energy costs!
P.S. Learn more by checking out our blog post The Benefits of Investing in Energy-Efficient Washers.
Purchase Eco-Friendly Detergents
Look for biodegradable, non-toxic detergents that don’t include harsh chemicals like phosphates and sulfates. When you run out, look for refills that limit or avoid plastic packaging.
Promote Sustainable Practices
While you can’t control your customers, you can certainly encourage them to adopt eco-friendly habits — such as using cold water, only washing full loads, and avoiding dryer sheets — while laundering their clothes at your establishment. How?
- Use signage and marketing to teach customers how to reduce their carbon footprint when they’re at your laundromat.
- Offer discounts to customers who use cold-water wash cycles.
- Provide an incentive for customers who bring in reusable laundry bags (if you offer a wash-fold service).
Use Renewable Energy Sources If Possible
To decrease your business’s reliance on fossil fuels, consider investing in renewable energy sources to power your laundromat. For example, you could install solar panels. While they do require a high initial investment, you may be able to use tax incentives to offset the cost, and the long-term savings may make the investment worthwhile. You could also try using LED lighting or motion-sensor lighting to minimize your energy consumption.
Employ Water Conservation Strategies
All laundromats inevitably use a large amount of water, but you can reduce your water consumption with the right technology. First, purchase washing machines designed to use a lower amount of water without reducing effectiveness. Second, look into wastewater recycling systems, which reuse rinse water for pre-wash cycles. Third, look into machines that use smart sensors to adjust the water level based on load size. All of these strategies can reduce your water usage and lower your utility costs.
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Though this will depend on your customer base, embracing green practices could improve your business’s reputation and profitability while simultaneously benefiting the environment! Now that you know how to create an eco-friendly laundromat, are you ready to get the ball rolling?
If you’re looking for a reliable distributor, check out Laundry Solutions Company, a full-service provider of premium vended, on-premises, and multi-housing commercial laundry equipment. Our leasing program provides no mileage fees, no service fees, and no parts fees. You will be able to use high-quality Speed Queen equipment while enjoying a flexible lease and predictable payments. To learn more about our products and services, please give us a call at 800-383-9274 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!