Winter brings a certain charm to hotels – the cosy fires, warm welcomes, and festive atmosphere that guests love. But as temperatures drop, energy bills tend to rise. For hotel managers and owners, the winter season can be a balancing act between maintaining guest comfort and managing costs. The good news? With a few smart changes and some strategic planning, you can keep guests comfortable while keeping your energy consumption in check.
Heating Smarter, Not Harder
Heating and hot water can account for around 70% of a hotel’s total energy bill. The key to controlling this expense lies in efficiency:
- Optimise Temperatures: Keep guest rooms at 20–21°C and reduce the heat in unused spaces.
- Use Smart Thermostats: Automating your heating schedule ensures rooms are heated only when occupied.
- Stay on Top of Maintenance: Regularly clean filters, check for leaks, and service boilers to ensure peak efficiency.
- Seal the Gaps: A simple insulation check can prevent warm air from escaping through doors and windows.
Small steps like these can make a big difference – both for your bottom line and for the planet.
Let There Be (Efficient) Light
Lighting may seem minor compared to heating, but it still offers great potential for savings. Switching to LED lighting can cut lighting energy use by up to 80%. Combine this with motion sensors in corridors and restrooms, and you’ll avoid paying for light in empty spaces.
For an extra seasonal touch, keep your Christmas lights efficient too:
- Choose LED festive lights, which last longer and consume far less energy.
- Set them on timers so they shine bright only during peak hours.
- Consider solar-powered decorations for outdoor displays – they’re stylish, sustainable, and completely off-grid.
Water Wisdom: Hot Savings Ahead
Hot water is another hidden energy drain in hotels. A few targeted upgrades can go a long way:
- Insulate hot water pipes to reduce heat loss.
- Install low-flow showerheads and taps to save water without compromising the guest experience.
- Encourage towel and linen reuse – guests are often happy to participate when sustainability is communicated clearly.
These changes not only save on energy but also enhance your hotel’s eco-friendly reputation.
Engage Your Team and Guests
Sustainability works best when everyone is involved. Make energy awareness part of your hotel culture:
- Train staff to follow simple energy-saving habits – turning off unused lights, reporting leaks, and adjusting thermostats.
- Reward initiatives that reduce energy usage across departments.
- Involve guests by sharing your efforts through tasteful in-room reminders encouraging them to join in your conservation mission.
A collective approach builds pride, engagement, and measurable results.
Invest for the Future
For hotels ready to take a bigger step, long-term investments pay off in both savings and guest satisfaction:
- Upgrade to energy-efficient windows to lock in warmth.
- Adopt a Building Management System (BMS) to automate and monitor heating, lighting, and ventilation.
- Explore renewable energy, such as solar panels, to generate clean power and demonstrate commitment to sustainability.
Not only do these investments cut costs, but they also enhance your brand’s reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking hospitality leader.
Final Thoughts
Winter energy management doesn’t have to be complicated. With small adjustments, staff awareness, and the right technology, your hotel can stay warm and welcoming without wasting energy. Taking control of your consumption today means a more efficient, sustainable, and profitable tomorrow.
Now is the time to take control of your business energy – and let your guests enjoy comfort that feels good in every sense.
