The loading dock is a critical part of any warehouse operation. It is the primary pickup and drop off point for your business. And while this area plays such a significant role in your company’s profits, it can also cost your company money if you don’t take the proper steps. Let’s evaluate some ways you can improve the energy efficiency in your loading dock area. Improving your energy efficiency will save you money and could potentially get you a tax break!
Install And Utilize Dock Shelters And Seals
No matter how closely a truck fits into your loading dock, there could still be air and other elements that can enter your warehouse via the gap between the two. Dock shelters and seals can help prevent some of this from happening. There are a couple of different options available to help you secure your dock.
The first is a compression Dock Seal. These seals use the power of compression to provide an energy-efficient barrier around your loading dock bay openings. There is also a dock seal. This kind of seal will enclose the area around where your dock bay meets the truck. You will have access to the inside of the trailer without the elements becoming an issue. The temperature will stay constant and not cause your warehouse to expend more energy, trying to heat or cool the building.
There is also the option of having inflatable seals around your loading dock bay openings. This type of dock seal serves the same purpose as the compression version. It just uses an inflatable device to provide protection instead of compression.
Dock shelters are designed to do the same thing as seals. A shelter isn’t as tight as a seal, but it does allow more flexibility. Shelters can be used on larger trucks since it functions more like a cover.
Conduct A Full Inspection Of Your Warehouse/Garage Doors
Warehouse and overhead garage doors help keep your building safe. They also aid in regulating the temperature of your building. If their seals are broken, or the doors get cracks, extreme air temps will enter the structure. Check your doors regularly to make sure they are in good operating condition. Make any adjustments and repairs needed, so your doors don’t drive up your energy costs.
Upgrade Your Lighting
If you haven’t kept up with the latest updates from the lighting industry, it has undergone many changes. Light-bulbs have been upgraded to work more efficiently than past iterations. Virtually all lights now are LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs. This kind of bulb can light the same area and not use as much electricity. This style of light bulb also lasts longer. You can save your company a significant amount of money on both energy costs and supplies. Energy-efficient supplies may also qualify you for tax breaks.
Trust Authority Dock & Door For Your Loading Dock Needs
Contact the professionals at Authority Dock & Door to learn more about their loading dock equipment solutions. Our sales team has countless years of experience and are well trained in ascertaining our customers’ needs. Schedule your consultation today, and make sure to follow us on Facebook to stay current on our latest product updates.