If you’re like most store owners, you’re probably counting down the days until summer is over. It can be hard to keep your shop cool and comfortable during the hotter months, but with air conditioning, it’s a lot easier. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of air conditioning for your shoe store and how it can help you stay cool and successful all summer long. Stay tuned!
The Importance of Air Conditioning in a Shoe Store
As any shoe store owner knows, air conditioning is important for two main reasons: keeping customers comfortable and preventing damage to shoes. Let’s discuss each of these in more detail.
Keeping Customers Comfortable
There’s nothing worse than walking into a store that’s too hot or too cold. When it comes to air conditioning, shoppers want a store that’s just right. Not too hot and not too cold. If your store is too hot, customers will be rushed to make their purchase and get out of the heat. And if your store is too cold, customers will be rushed to make their purchase and get out of the cold. Neither of these scenarios is ideal for making a sale.
In order to keep your customers comfortable, it’s important to maintain a comfortable temperature in your store at all times. This can be accomplished by using a thermostat to regulate the temperature or by using fans to circulate the air. Whichever method you choose, make sure that your store is always at a comfortable temperature so that shoppers can take their time and browse through your selection without being rushed by the heat or the cold.
Preventing Damage to Shoes
Another reason why air conditioning is important in a shoe store is because it prevents damage to shoes. Heat can cause shoes to warp and become misshapen, which makes them less attractive to potential buyers. In addition, heat can also cause shoes to fade and lose their color over time. By keeping your store cool with air conditioning, you can prevent these problems and keep your shoes looking their best.
The Types of Air Conditioning Units Available for Your Business
When it comes to air conditioning units, there are three main types available on the market: central, split, and portable. Here are the pros and cons of each type so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for your business.
Central air conditioning units are far and away the most popular type of AC unit on the market. That’s because they’re relatively affordable, easy to install, and highly effective at cooling large spaces. If you have a shoe store that’s 2,000 square feet or more, a central AC unit is probably your best bet.
A split systems air conditioning unit cools a large space. It consists of two parts: an outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor air handler. Split AC units are more expensive than central units, but they’re also more energy-efficient. So, if you’re looking to save some money on your energy bill, a split AC unit might be the way to go.
Portable air conditioners are exactly what they sound like: AC units that can be easily moved from one room to another. They’re perfect for small businesses like shoe stores because they can be placed directly in the window of the room you want to cool. Portable AC units are less expensive than both central and split units, but they’re also not as effective at cooling large spaces.
Air conditioning maintenance tips to keep your system running smoothly
No one wants to be caught in a fashion emergency, especially when the temps are soaring and the AC is on the fritz. Follow these air conditioning maintenance tips to keep your system running smoothly all summer long.
Schedule an annual checkup. Just like your car, your air conditioner needs a tune-up at least once a year. This will help ensure that it’s running as efficiently as possible and catch any potential problems before they turn into full-blown emergencies.
Change your air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause your AC to work harder than it needs to, which can lead to higher energy bills and premature wear and tear on your system. Check your filter monthly and change it as needed.
Keep an eye on your thermostat settings. During the summer months, you’ll want to keep your thermostat set to “cool” and set the temperature at a comfortable level—around 78 degrees is ideal. And be sure to upgrade to a programmable thermostat so you can automatically adjust the temperature when you’re away from home or asleep—no more coming home to a sweltering house!
Clear debris from around your outdoor unit. Your AC’s outdoor unit needs adequate airflow to function properly, so be sure to clear away any leaves, grass, or other debris that could be blocking its vents.
The cost of air conditioning and how it can be offset by energy savings
According to the Department of Energy, the average cost of air conditioning is $0.30 per hour. However, this number will vary depending on the size of your store, the climate you live in, and the efficiency of your AC unit. If you live in a hot climate or if your store is large, then your costs will be on the high end. In fact, it’s not uncommon for stores in hot climates to spend $1,000 or more per month on air conditioning.
The good news is that there are ways to offset the cost of air conditioning with energy savings. One way to do this is by using energy-efficient lightbulbs. LED bulbs use 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, so they can help you save money on your electric bill. You can also save money by using a programmable thermostat to turn off the AC when your store is closed or when no one is around to benefit from it. Finally, making sure that your AC unit is properly maintained can help it run more efficiently and use less energy.
Case studies of shoe stores that rely on air conditioning to stay cool and profitable
Here’s a list of case studies from shoe stores that have found creative ways to keep their businesses cool and profitable.
Case Study #1: The Bootlegger
The Bootlegger is a high-end shoe store in Los Angeles that specializes in designer footwear. In order to keep their inventory in pristine condition, they maintain a strict policy of keeping the store at 68 degrees Fahrenheit at all times.
To achieve this, they use a combination of central air conditioning and ceiling fans. During the summer months, they also keep the blinds closed during the day to block out the sun’s heat. As a result of their efforts, The Bootlegger has become one of the go-to destinations for celebrities and fashionistas looking for the perfect pair of shoes.
Case Study #2: Shoe Palooza
Shoe Palooza is a chain of discount shoe stores with locations across the country. In order to keep their overhead costs low, they’ve installed energy-efficient air conditioners in all of their stores. They’ve also taken advantage of natural ventilation by opening up the front and back doors of their stores when weather permits.
In addition to saving money on their electric bills, Shoe Palooza has found that opening up the doors helps create a more inviting atmosphere for customers. On days when it’s too hot or too cold to open the doors, they rely on fans to circulate air throughout the store.
Case Study #3: Staavias– Online Shoe Store
Staavias is an online shoe store that specializes in wide shoes for women. Because they don’t have brick-and-mortar stores, they don’t have to worry about cooling a large space. Instead, they focus on keeping their warehouse at a comfortable temperature for their employees and storing their inventory in climate-controlled rooms.
Takeaways
Your shoe store can be a success with the proper tools, like air conditioning, in place. By keeping your merchandise and customers cool, you create an inviting atmosphere that encourages sales. Give your store the best chance for success by making sure the temperature is always comfortable for both your staff and your shoppers.
