How To Reduce Electricity And Water Bills
July 29, 2008
If, your electric and water bill is way too high, then it is time to take some voluntary though mandatory steps, both at home and at the work place to save considerably on energy expenses. Far too many of us are in the habit of using the remote control for switching on or off our TVs, ACs, fans, stereos, computers etc., including leaving appliances on standby. Appliances on standby means electrical energy is still being used even, a significant amount of wasted power that can be prevented.
Say No To Standby Mode
You can reduce your electricity bill and even your water bill by switching off the main power button or switch. Anything left on standby consumes roughly 85% of the energy it would, if switched on completely.
Light Bulbs Energy Saving Tips
In most homes 10-15% of electricity bill is for lighting. Reduce costs significantly by using bulbs that work like fluorescent lights instead of conventional bulbs, which waste a lot of energy by turning light into heat. Energy saving bulbs have tube coatings that glow brightly as an electric current passes through gas in the tube. They cost more than conventional bulbs, but are worthwhile investments lasting 10-times longer and using up to four times less energy.
Where you use a 100-watt ordinary bulb, you only require a 20-25-watt energy saving bulb. So, why not change all the bulbs in your house and the office for reducing your electricity costs and consumption. Other cost reduction tips include turning of the lighting whenever leaving a room.
Washing Machine Energy Saving Tips
A washing machine is one of the appliances that consumes the most energy. Cut down on how often you use it, using it only for full loads and using the half load function for smaller ones.
Refrigerator Energy Saving Tips
The location of a fridge or freezer can make a difference in how energy-efficient it is. Ensure it is placed out of direct sunlight and far from the stove or oven. Keep it against an outside wall; ensure adequate ventilation so that the heat it generates flees effortlessly. Make sure there to leave space all around for air circulation.
Defrost your fridge and freezer on a regular basis. An iced up freezer or fridge only means it has to work harder, thus wasting more energy than required. Only set the fridge on cold if it is required and do not keep the front door open for longer than necessary, as this allows the cold air to escape and warm air to enter. Check the seal regularly, if damaged it allows cold air to escape. Always cool food before placing in the fridge as warm or hot foodstuff means it has to work that much harder to cool food.
Keep fridge / freezers filled to capacity, without over-crowding. Uncovered liquids should not be kept in a fridge / freezer as they emit vapours adding to the compressor’s workload. Reduce fridge / freezer electricity usage 40% by replacing a 12-year old or older unit with a new one. When you go to buy a fridge or freezer, choose one that is big enough for your requirements. Also look for energy-saving features such as power saver switch and improved insulation materials, etc.
AC / Coolers Energy Saving Tips
Air-conditioners/ air-coolers consume more electricity than any other item, contributing 60 – 70% of a summer electric bill. Maintain your air- conditioning equipment by having them serviced regularly by professionals. Clean or replace AC filters at least once a year. Cut utility bills by 30% by buying only quality products.
Save more money by learning to live without an AC, instead use a combination of ceiling fans and proper insulation.
Other Cost Reduction Ways
Save energy by turning off televisions, computers, video players, stereos and other appliances when not in use; do laundry when there is a full load of clothes, dry clothes in sunlight instead of using the dryer; take a modest shower; turn of the unnecessary lights and appliances; reduce garden watering, car washing and house/window washing.
Reducing Water Bill
Save a litre each time you flush by fitting a Save-a-Flush device. Don’t leave the tap open while brushing your teeth or washing up. Collect rainwater in a water butt. Water plants on alternate days rather than daily. Wash dishes by hand. Turn off dripping taps as losing a drop second, wastes 15-litres of water each day.
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