Energy-saving management of steam sterilizers in hospital′s sterilization and supply center

Abstract

Objective To reduce the energy consumption and cost of steam sterilizers at sterile supply centers. Methods Routine data of the steam sterilizers from January to June of 2016 were collected from one hospital in Changchun. Usage by timeframe of these sterilizers was analyzed, including their performance when they are powered on, standby (idle), and powered off and their energy expenditure at such states. Sustainable and stepwise energy saving strategy was developed, with the reduction of standby (idle) period and energy saving amount of energy and cost. Results Usage of sterilizers was found with obvious peak and valley hours, while their standby hours during the latter were long and in a few timeframes. After implementation of the energy saving management strategy, their standby hours at various timeframes averaged ≤3 h (P<0.001). For six months, we reduced 5 818 hours of standby time, 97 tons of steam, 2 910 kW·h of electricity, saving cost over 30 000 yuan (17%). Conclusions The energy-saving management strategy could reduce the consumption of energy and cost effectively. Key words: Sterile supply center; Steam sterilizer; Energy saving management; Stepwise