Quick service restaurants use a lot of energy. As operating costs and energy prices rise across the U.S., this high level of energy consumption has become a big problem. However, much of quick service restaurant (QSR) energy usage is wasted, as outdated equipment consumes more fuel than necessary and makes bills higher than they need to be.  

Food service buildings are nearly four times more energy intensive than commercial buildings are on average in the United States, according to research from the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Other estimates say this number is even greater, with energy use at restaurants being 5 to 7 times higher. Though food service buildings are typically the smallest type of commercial building, they use a lot more energy per square foot. This can be even higher for QSRs, who may even use up to 10 times more energy per square foot than other commercial buildings, according to EnergyStar.gov. 

A high portion of this energy consumption stems from heating, air conditioning, and ventilation (HVAC) systems, which are essential for restaurants and QSRs to maintain comfort and safety for guests and employees. In fact, HVAC can account for 25 to 30% of the energy used by a QSR. Yet many of these restaurants are spending more on HVAC energy than they need.  

Most businesses waste 30% of the energy they consume on average, and this includes energy spent on HVAC. The average age of an HVAC in the U.S. is 10 to 15 years old, while some can be even older. This means they aren’t operating at their peak performance anymore, not to mention that most models started off highly inefficient compared to the technologies that have come into the market in recent years.  

Upgrading to the highest-efficiency units available is a smart move for any business, but with their high rate of consumption, QSRs especially have a lot to gain.  

A high-functioning HVAC system is critical to the success of a QSR location. These businesses often have long hours, with the kitchen operating around the clock. Ensuring the space doesn’t overheat employees is important for both their safety and ability to work efficiently.  

With the constant burning of oils and smoke, it’s also necessary to have good ventilation for safety and hygiene. Ventilation is often not prioritized by QSRs, and kitchens can become coated in grease, which attracts bacteria and jeopardizes employee and food safety. If good ventilation isn’t maintained, fumes and smells can also leak into the dining area, making an uncomfortable environment for customers as well.  

Replacing old HVAC units that are not working well or are coated in grime is a great solution. But often, due to the tight margins most QSRs run on, owners prioritize low-cost units over high-efficiency units when buying new HVAC equipment. In addition to preserving capital, many QSR owners don’t believe the claims that energy-efficient units will lower their operating costs and may have concerns about installing new types of technology at their locations. 

These concerns are understandable, but the benefits of high-efficiency HVACs for QSRs are tremendous. Energy-efficient models create a better environment and consume less energy to reduce the monthly utility bills and carbon footprint of QSR locations.  

Better yet, innovative Ultra High Performance (UHP) HVACs go the extra mile by bringing in a lot more fresh air, reducing noise and draft, and delivering 65% energy savings.  They also elevate corporate sustainability goals by being fully electric and eliminating the need for natural gas.  

Best of all, UHP HVACs have industry-leading humidity control, which improves food quality, and they lower CO2 levels indoors, which improves air quality.  

READ: Case study with Dunkin’ shows how UHP HVACs created better tasting donuts. 

This all sounds great to have, of course, but it doesn’t solve a primary concern many QSR owners have: cost. 

That’s where Budderfly comes in. Budderfly is a technology company with a unique model. We don’t make our customers pay upfront for our technology. So, if you can’t afford to invest in new equipment, it’s not a problem! 

We provide and install the best energy-saving technologies—including high-efficiency HVACs but also a lot more—with no capital required from owners. Instantly, owners start saving on their energy bills, and Budderfly shares some of that savings to pay back for the initial investment. And our customers still see a reduction on their utility bills. It’s a win-win! 

To learn more about how Budderfly helps QSRs save on energy, check out our eBook or talk to one of our QSR energy experts today.