How To Make Electricity Savings With Voltage Optimisation
Electricity is the fuel oil of the digital revolution. It heats our houses, gives us light, cooks our food and runs our computers. In short, we use quite a lot of it. But we might be using more of it than we actually need – and I don’t just mean leaving lights on when we leave the room. Most equipment will operate at a far lower voltage than that supplied by the National Grid. Particularly in larger commercial venues, voltage regulation – ensuring you only receive the amount of power you actually need – can dramatically reduce energy bills.
Voltage optimisation allows you to make electricity savings by ensuring your shop, prison or hospital only receives the amount of energy from the National Grid that it actually needs. In the UK, electricity is generally delivered from the National Grid at 242V, though it can be as high as 253V. This is well above the best level to maximise equipment efficiency – about 220-216V – though one can still get all electrical equipment to operate adequately at 207V.
But don’t worry, your computer isn’t about to blow up or your fridge melt. Even if oversupplied, electrical and electronic equipment will continue to operate, but it will produce more heat and vibrate a lot more. Not only does this mean much of your electricity bill is being spent on waste, it also means your equipment will wear out a lot faster. Voltage optimisation allows you to make not only electricity savings, but also savings on equipment maintenance and replacement.
So how does it work? Voltage optimisation brings the incoming National Grid energy into line with the voltage your computers, electrical heating, lighting, et al actually need to operate efficiently and effectively. In large commercial premises such as hotels, sports complexes and warehouse stores, users save on average 20% on their energy bill.
In practical terms this means the installation of a voltage optimisation unit on your premises. The units are made to measure, so should exactly fit the requirements of each customer. There is no need for too much major work as the voltage optimisers can be easily integrated into existing electricity systems and supplies. Meters and digital displays fitted to the units allow quick and simple monitoring.
Safety is a priority whenever one is dealing with electricity. In the event of a fault, older voltage optimisers would automatically disconnect the power supply. While this was undoubtedly very safe, it was also very impractical. The latest units automatically bypass the supply and reconnect your system to the National Grid, ensuring an uninterrupted flow of electricity.
For large commercial premises the savings are such that the typical unit pays back its investment in 2-3 years. For lower maintenance and repair costs, cheaper energy bills and a safer working environment, consider powering down (just a bit).
Marshall-Tufflex supply voltage optimisers to a variety of clients and industries, including theme parks, prisons and sporting complexes.