Reducing Energy Consumption in Contract Cleaning: A Product Guide

Shifting its focus towards a Net Zero carbon commitment by 2050, the government has set targets to reduce CO2 emissions, prompting a heightened emphasis on energy consumption throughout society. Meeting these ambitious targets within the specified timeframe presents a significant challenge. However, the current year has brought an unforeseen spike in energy prices, compelling businesses to urgently address their energy usage.

Undergoing a substantial transformation in light of these developments is the contract cleaning sector. This shift is primarily attributed to its extensive dependence on energy resources for vital cleaning procedures, encompassing tasks like water heating, operating electrical devices and appliances, as well as lighting. This highlights a pressing requirement for the industry to enhance the energy efficiency of these processes.

In this blog, we are going to explore various product-based strategies for reducing energy consumption in cleaning practices. This insightful exploration will uncover innovative cleaning products that require significantly less energy to manufacture, use, and dispose of compared to traditional cleaning products.

Energy Efficient Cleaning Machines

Commercial facilities are home to some of the dirtiest floors, necessitating the constant attention of contract cleaners to maintain a hygienic and presentable environment. Among the arsenal of tools at their disposal, electricity-powered equipment like vacuum cleaners play a pivotal role in ensuring thorough and efficient cleaning.

For many years, the cleaning industry has followed the school of thought that bigger is better – more power equals more pick-up when it comes to floor cleaning machines. However, with more power comes more energy use. To tackle this dilemma, cleaning companies must shift their focus from sheer power to innovative and energy-efficient solutions.

Embracing advancements in technology, such as the development of high-performance yet energy-conscious vacuum cleaners, can significantly contribute to reducing energy consumption while maintaining superior cleaning standards.

For example, the Numatic ECO Vacuum ERP180 is equipped with the highest efficiency Eco motor, delivering a 30% reduction in energy consumption whilst still providing the same professional, high-performance cleaning results. Additionally, this hoover is engineered from 75% recycled plastic reducing its energy consumption even further.

Concentrated Cleaning Chemicals

For a long time, the cleaning industry has heavily relied upon pre-diluted chemical solutions that come conveniently packaged in single-use bottles. This is largely due to their accessibility and suitability, especially in bustling business environments. However, the extensive adoption of pre-diluted carries notable environmental disadvantages.

Transporting watered-down solutions consumes extra energy due to the added weight, contributing to higher carbon emissions during transportation. Additionally, the continuous cycle of manufacturing and discarding plastic containers further depletes resources and leads to long-lasting pollution.

To address these issues, cleaning companies must implement more sustainable alternatives for pre-diluted cleaning chemicals. A solution being widely adopted by the industry in recent years is the use of concentrated chemicals and reusable trigger spray bottles.

For example, the Triple 8 Dose concentrated chemicals and reusable trigger bottles allow staff to dilute the solution on-site, not only reducing the amount of unnecessary waste generated but also decreasing emissions from distribution. The high chemical concentration of Triple 8 Dose means that just one 1-litre bottle can refill a reusable spray bottle more than 100 times, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles.

Cleaning Equipment Made from Recycled Plastics

Traditional plastic cleaning tools and equipment such as mop buckets and brooms pose a significant challenge when it comes to energy consumption.

Crafted from affordable yet fragile plastic materials, these tools heavily depend on non-renewable resources, predominantly crude oil, and natural gas, throughout their manufacturing process. Unfortunately, due to their restricted operational lifespan, they are often cast aside once they succumb to routine wear and tear. This pattern not only adds to the mounting issue of plastic waste but also accelerates the depletion of the planet’s finite energy resources.

However, transitioning to recycled plastic products offers a promising solution to these challenges. Recycled plastic products, such as the ECO Kentucky Bucket, are created by reprocessing discarded plastic materials, diverting them from landfills and incineration. This approach significantly reduces the demand for new plastic production and the extraction of non-renewable resources, contributing to a circular economy.

For More Sustainable Cleaning Tips, or to Order Eco-friendly Cleaning and Hygiene Products: Speak to Castle (EU)

At Castle, we are passionate about shaping a better future for the generations to come. That is why we place sustainability at the core of our business. By continually challenging ourselves and our partners, we can optimise our sustainability through new initiatives and innovations to become more efficient, less wasteful, and positively impact the environment.

Our range of commercial and household cleaning solutions are all manufactured with the environment in mind. By using our products, you can achieve a deeper clean without causing harming your health or the planet.

To learn more about how we can help you achieve your environmental goals, contact a team member at Castle.