Scientific Equipment

Fridges and Freezers

A typical new ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezer consumes as much energy in a year as the average UK household.
Running older ULT models consumes up to four times the average UK household.
Sharing space, and having an emergency plan is more efficient than running older back-up freezers, especially partially full.
To improve the lifespan of a -20°C freezer, ensuring samples are required, and the freezer is not overly full, and regularly fully defrosted improves the efficiency by 10%.
Selecting models with a LCD screen, and / or audio alarm will minimise sample and chemical loss in case of failure.
Selecting models with temperature retention in mind will increase efficiency - Drawers over shelves, and shelves over racks.

Fume cupboards are among the most energy-hungry types of equipment – an average unit consumes as much as 3.5 average UK households.
Shutting a fume cupboard sash reduces its air flow, energy consumption and carbon emissions by up to 40%.
Fume cupboard awareness is key:
- Always close your fume cupboard sash when you leave the room.
- Keep items in the fume hood at least 10cm apart and remove unnecessary items – it’s not safe otherwise!
- Don’t use fume cupboards for storage – use ventilated cabinets instead, which only use ~1% of the energy of a fume cupboard.

Plan ahead for what you need
- Frequent reordering suggests that a larger size may be appropriate and would save on packaging and deliveries
- For small quantities check with colleagues - use LabCup to check across the department and share resource.
Reduce deliveries. Order in bulk. Group orders. Plan ahead.
Ordering reusable alternatives to single use consumables can save money over time.
Reassess your disposal options with suppliers, some know have take back schemes, or more end-pf-life friendly alternatives.
Plan to minimise waste - disposal costs are overlooked but not insignificant. Work with the Technical teams to minimise wastage, and reduce the hazards for cost efficient disposal.