Energy Usage
Laboratories are among the highest energy-consuming sectors in the country. Following data centers, labs are known for using more energy per square foot than most other sectors. This is largely due to their energy-demanding equipment, continuous operations, need for 100% outside air, and high airflow rates.
General tips:
- Use outlet timers to automatically shut off equipment during non-use periods, setting them to turn equipment off after work hours and back on before the next workday.
- When possible, turn off and unplug equipment not in use for long periods to avoid energy consumption from standby power.
- Utilize energy-saving modes on equipment where available, and choose ENERGY STAR-rated appliances like freezers and refrigerators to minimize energy usage.
- Establish end-of-day protocols to save energy in an unoccupied lab.
- Maximize natural light in the lab by turning off lights when there’s enough sunlight. Put up reminders to switch off lights when leaving the lab.
Fume hoods are among the most energy-demanding equipment in the lab, primarily because of their impact on ventilation systems. Studies have shown that they can use up to 3.5 times the energy of an average household.
- Lower the sash when the fume hood is not actively being used, the strain on ventilation systems is significantly reduced, minimizing the amount of air being pulled into and expelled from the building.
- Post reminders on or near the hoods can help reinforce this habit.
- Regularly inspect ventilation shafts to ensure they’re clear and not obstructed. Avoid using fume hoods as storage, as clutter affects airflow and safe operation.
Changing Behavior Through Design: A Lab Fume Hood Closure Experiment
VALIDATING COST AND ENERGY SAVINGS FROM HARVARD’S SHUT THE SASH PROGRAM
Cold storage is found in abundance in lab spaces and added up consumes large amounts of energy. By creating good practices around your cold storage such as, regular cleaning and maintenance, accessibility inventories and optimal usage protocols you can ensure your cold storage is used efficiently. An -80 ultra low temperature freezer turned up to -70 can save nearly 30% on energy consumption.
- Attach a freezer/refrigerator inventory list to reduce door-open time. Share units with neighboring labs or utilize core facilities when possible.
- Position freezers and refrigerators away from direct sunlight or heat sources, and regularly defrost them when ice exceeds 3/8 inches for optimal cooling efficiency.
- Dust and clean exterior coils to lower energy consumption and prolong the appliance’s life. Leave adequate space around the appliance to allow for proper airflow and safe maintenance.
- Inspect door seals regularly by closing a piece of paper in the door—if it falls, the seal may need attention.
- Consider adjusting ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezers to -70℃ where possible.
Stability of Genomic DNA at various storage conditions
Ultra Low Freezer Management Guide
Ultra-Low Freezer Maintenance Quick Reference Guide
My Green Lab freezer challenge
Extra resources:
Sustainable European Laboratories Network
Using Outlet Timers on Lab Equipment Reduces Energy Consumption