More people are becoming passionate about conserving energy in the home, and this boils down to two fundamental reasons: to save money and to reduce the amount of damage caused to the environment.
If more households use less energy (or a cleaner energy source), we’ll see a reduction in damage to the ozone layer, and we’ll reduce our dependence on fossil fuels which are nonrenewable and harmful to the environment.
However, for this to happen meaningfully, we’ve all got to do our part.
Below are some steps to help you save energy at home:
- Turn off appliances, not in use
Did you know that your electronic appliances use as much as 75% of their electricity consumption when switched off?
A simple tour of your home will likely prove you have at least several plugged-in items you’re not using. For example, electrical items on standby, such as TVs, computers, and video game consoles. Many of these appliances draw a small amount of electricity whilst waiting for use. Chargers for cell phones, tablets, and other cordless devices also use small amounts of energy even when they’re not charging.
When not using them for a while, turn them off at the wall to conserve energy. Whereas the electricity they consume might seem small, it all adds up over a more extended period on your electric bill.
- Change your light bulbs
Traditional incandescent light bulbs consume an excessive amount of electricity and must be replaced more often than their energy-efficient alternatives. Halogen incandescent bulbs, compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), and light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs) use anywhere from 25-80 percent less electricity and last 3 to 25 times longer than traditional bulbs.
Although energy-efficient bulbs are more expensive off the shelf, their efficient energy use and longer lifetimes mean that they cost less in the long run. As a result, over time, the cost balances out as you save more energy.
Easily forgotten sometimes is perhaps one of the simplest things you can do to reduce energy use. Simply let the natural light in and avoid turning on electric lights at all during the day. You’ll also find natural light better for your work-from-home environment.
- Use large appliances together to reduce energy use
Whereas your modern washing machine and dryer may be marked as energy-efficient, even energy-efficient appliances still consume a lot of electricity with each use.
To conserve electricity as much as possible, pool your laundry together and do full loads all at once. As a result, you cut down on the number of times you use the washer weekly. If it helps, think about how much money you’re throwing away with each wash of an item or two.
- Unplug & defrost your freezer monthly
Your freezer benefits from occasionally defrosting, usually once a month. When excessive ice builds up in the freezer, the system ends up working harder to preserve all that ice and keep cool air flowing. As a result, a freezer in need of a defrost uses more energy and adds to your energy costs.
Also, move the refrigerator to an area with adequate air circulation, as it helps it become more power-efficient. Your fridge should also be at least 2 inches away from the wall and not stand directly exposed to sunlight.
- Shop smarter.
Many of today’s new appliances use half the energy of 20 years ago. If you’re in the market, look for products with the Energy Star label. They typically use about 10 to 40 percent less energy than other new models.
Shopping for a new computer? Keep in mind that laptops use significantly less energy than desktop versions and can be hooked up to external monitors and keyboards when you want the big-screen experience. Remodeling your bathroom? Replace old showerheads with new low-flow designs to prevent excess hot water (and the energy used to heat it) from going down the drain.
- Stay up to date on maintenance to save energy
Your appliances will work more effectively and save you electricity at home if they are cared for. For example, when your air conditioner’s air filters clog up, you might choose to turn it up higher because the regular temperature doesn’t do so much anymore, using more energy.
By changing the filter, you can get enough cold air at a minimal temperature, and you’ll note a reduction in your utility bills. The same applies to your dishwasher, tumble dryer, and other appliances.
Conclusion
Remember that there is a connection between how much electricity you use and your environment. Your electricity conservation changes might seem small, but they all add up.
You’ll find energy savings as simple as paying attention to use around the home. Small changes such as turning off all the lights before you go out all add up. This all results in conserving energy around the home.
Practice some of the tips above to save electricity at home and you’ll make a difference before you know it. Not only will your electric bill thank you, but you’ll also be reducing your carbon footprint whilst doing your bit for the environment.