From Guest Blogger Brooke Chaplan: Creative New Ways Your Business Can Go Greener and Increase Profits

By going green, your company can reduce the operating costs that eat into your profits. Projects such as upgrading to more efficient heating, plumbing, lighting and mechanical systems offer a great return on investment. Consider these four easy and creative ways that your company can increase profits, cut costs and continue to offer excellent products and services.

Upgrade to LED Lighting

An easy way to go greener and boost profits is to upgrade to LED lighting. If your business has lights running 24 hours per day, seven days per week, you could be spending a lot of money on electricity. LED bulbs use much less electricity and emit a minimal amount of heat compared to incandescent and fluorescent lights. Consider turning off the lights when your employees are not in the building. Use motion-detection lighting systems when possible.

Install Efficient Boilers

Boilers are an ideal way to upgrade the heating system for your business. Boilers offer an efficient solution to the needs for heating and hot water. The boiler could make use of a variety of energy sources, such as natural gas, propane, electricity, or even renewable energy. Some companies, like Nationwide Boiler, know that these kind of devices are very versatile. Boilers generally last for a long time and only require a minimal amount of routine maintenance, which helps to lower your costs of doing business.

Replace Old Plumbing Fixtures

Old plumbing fixtures could be running up your corporate water bill. Consider replacing old toilets, faucets and other plumbing fixtures with low-flow options. Dual-flush toilets are ideal for use in the workplace. If your employees drink water, consider a separate drinking water fountain from the sink. Be sure to schedule regular plumbing maintenance in order to check for leaks.

Use High-efficiency Appliances

By cutting down on energy usage, your business could enjoy a higher level of profits. Consider updating old appliances such as the break room refrigerator with a new, more efficient model. This could also be applied to microwaves. Upgrade to more efficient office equipment that powers down when not in use. This works for fax and copy machines, printers, and computer monitors.

These options for going green will not decrease the comfort or amenities that you are able to provide at your facility. By making these four upgrades, you might even be eligible for rebates or incentives through utility companies or tax credits through a variety of governmental programs. Each of these upgrades can be done at any time, and you will begin to notice their benefits as soon as possible.