Over 88% of laundromat owners cite high costs as one of the biggest problems they face in the laundry business with more than half of owners singling out utility costs (CLA). Managing rising utility costs, especially for water, gas, and electricity, can take a big chunk out of your margins. Fortunately, there are plenty of low-cost, actionable steps you can take to cut these costs without compromising service or quality:

1) Use Fans to Circulate Air

During the hot summer months, the heat generated by dryers can overwhelm your HVAC system, causing your AC to work overtime. Combat this by using fans to circulate air in your facility. They’ll help distribute the heat from the dryers, reduce the strain on your AC, and ensure the space is more comfortable for customers.

2) Insulate, Insulate, Insulate

Air leaks can drive up your heating and cooling bills. Insulate windows, doors, cracks, or any areas where air can escape. Proper insulation keeps your space at a more consistent temperature and reduces the need to overuse your HVAC system, saving you energy and money.

3) Put Electronics on Timers

Lights, TVs, and other electronic devices can easily be left on for extended periods, especially in a busy laundromat. Install timers to control their use. This ensures they are only on when needed, helping you reduce your overall electricity consumption.

4) Educate Customers and Staff on Sustainability

Small changes can lead to big savings. Teach your customers to wash with cold water when possible and reduce dryer times by using the appropriate heat settings. Also, make sure your staff understands the importance of managing energy usage — the less hot water and drying time used, the more you save!

5) Install Motion-Sensing Faucets

It’s easy for customers to forget to turn off water while washing hands or rinsing. Installing motion-sensing faucets in your restroom or laundry areas ensures water is only used when necessary, preventing unnecessary waste and reducing water costs.

6) Optimize Washer and Dryer Usage

If you offer Wash/Fold/Delivery services, train your staff to optimize machine usage. Ensure they’re using the right number of washers and dryers for each load and avoid overloading. Overuse leads to higher utility costs and unnecessary wear-and-tear on your equipment.

7) Connect with Utility Providers for Discount Rates

Did you know some utility companies offer discounted rates to businesses, especially those in high-demand sectors like laundromats? Reach out to your local utility and water companies to see if you qualify for special pricing or energy-saving programs. It’s always worth asking!

8) Leverage Donations to Lower Your Taxable Income

Making charitable donations can help lower your tax burden. By donating to local fundraisers, nonprofits, or community organizations, you can reduce your taxable income, potentially offsetting your operational costs. LaunderPay is a proud supporter of the LaundryCares Foundation, and we integrate donation acceptance at checkout for every merchant. LaundyCares Foundation is a charitable foundation (501c3) whose mission is to provide laundry services and education to those in need.

(CLA) 2024 CLA Laundry Industry Survey with a sample size of 5,986 “Laundry Professionals” and “Laundry Owners”