Saving energy is not just about buying eco-friendly
appliances, but also
about using them properly and practicing energy saving techniques. Here are
some examples.
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| Photo Courtesy: https://en.wikipedia.org |
Compact Flourescent Lights
Incandescent lightbulbs are going to be obsolete
very soon because of how much energy that compact flourescent lights (CFLs)
save. They come in all shapes, sizes, and even shades. Thus, they can replace
any and all lights existing at your home.
Note: Because CFLs contain mercury, they must be disposed of properly.
Go Easy on the Heater
When you
use your water heater, keep the temperature below 50 degrees Celsius. Using it
above this temperature uses excessive amounts of energy. Also, make sure that
it is insulated so that no heat escapes. This will allow you to use lower
energy levels to reach your desired amount of heat. If there is no insulation,
then you can wrap it in an insulating blanket but leave room for the air vent
so it won’t break.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
A
programmable thermostat can save you 10% on your usual energy expenses by
avoiding the overuse of your air conditioning and heating system. It does this
by setting certain temperatures and certain times.
You can
set it in a way that it is in low use while you are at work and high use when
you return. You will want to keep the heat down when you sleep so you are
comfortable and bring it back up again when you wake up so you avoid
oversleeping.
Power Strips
Everyone
is the house should use power strips because digital readouts and transformer
boxes are found more often on devices nowadays. This means that electronics such
as computers and TVs will still draw power as long as they are plugged in; even
if these are turned off.
Because
of this, they need to be unplugged in order to save energy. But a better way to do this is to plug multiple
electronics into a power strip then either switch this off (if it has a switch)
or unplug it. Doing this will save another 10% from your usual energy bill.
Add Space Behind Your Refrigerator
Behind a
refrigerator, you can find its coils. Basically, this is what allows the appliance
to keep its insides cold.
When you
place it too near the wall, it will gather dust and cover the coils, making the
refrigerator work harder to reach your desired temperature. Add space between
it and the wall to avoid it from getting dirty. Clean the back and the coilsevery
three months as well.
A refrigerator
is the appliance that uses the most energy at your home, so you want to make
sure that it’s being used efficiently.
Clean You Air Conditioner’s Filter
If you
feel like your air conditioner is not cooling a room enough, then check your
compressor first. A dirty compressor and filter will not make the unit
efficient which is why it under performs. It’s not because the unit is wearing
down, but it’s because the cold air isn’t flowing properly.
Turn off
the power flow to the compressor first and then clean it with water from a
hose.
Key Takeaway
Because
some appliances have been marketed to be eco-friendly, some people become
complacent with their use. Because of this, their appliances either break or
use more energy that it needs to. Be aware of efficient ways to use your
appliances such as the tips listed above and you will see a drastic change in
your energy bills.
About the
Author:
Esther Diaz
A 22-year-old
graduate of graphic design, DIY enthusiast, make-up lover and has a love-hate
relationship with desserts. I dream to be soon one of the known bloggers.
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