Learning to Save Energy at Home

In a 21-st century world, more and more people are concerned about their energy consumption and carbon footprint. Cutting back on usage of energy is a primary goal for every homeowner. Contrary to what you may think, it does not take some very expensive home improvements to reduce your energy consumption. Save energy by following a few simple and easy techniques. Here they are.

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Switch Off Lighting and Appliances

You probably know it, but how often do you really unplug your television when not in use? Be honest. If you want to save energy, you have to break your old habits and make new healthy behaviors.

For example, many people tend to leave their portable computers on hibernate mode instead of pressing shut down. It is true that the machines don't consume as much energy as when they are on, but in order to save energy, just make sure to turn your laptop off when it is no longer in use. The same goes for your television, radio set, phone charger, etc. When you leave a room, don't forget to turn off the lights. There is no point in keeping the room lit when no one is there. In the long run, you can save between $80-$100 on a yearly basis and reduce your carbon footprint by keeping appliances switched off. Give it a try.

Prevent Air from Escaping

During winter, it is very easy to lose heat, especially if there are drafts. Air can escape through a window or door. To determine whether this is the case with you, hold your hand against a closed window or door and wait. If cold air is coming, you have a problem. But don't worry. It is easy to fix. Locate any crevices or cracks on floors, skirting boards or window frames and use a sealant or filler to seal them. Additionally, install draft excluders around interior and exterior doors to ensure that warm air does not leave the room.

When you turn your heating appliances on, make sure to draw the curtains (keep blinds down) to prevent warm air from escaping the room. The curtains will act as a temperature buffer. (On sunny days you will want to keep the curtains open to allow more light and help warm up the room naturally.)

Wash Smartly

Wash your clothes economically at reduced temperature – for example, 100 F (40 degrees Celsius) should work just as fine as 140 F (60 degrees Celsius). It will get them clean just the same. Also, don't run your washing machine unless you have a full load. You will use less energy to wash a full load rather than run separate half loads.

When the weather is fine, hang your clothes in the sunshine instead of using the tumble dryer.

Additionally, steer clear of bathing and take a shower instead. You will use less water and hence less electricity. This also applies when washing the dishes by hand. If you don't have a dishwasher, it is wise to fill the sink with water and wash all the plates and cookware there. Also, be sure to stop the water while applying detergent and rubbing with the sponge.

Another clever tip provided by a cleaning company in Stockwell is to place a container under the tap while you wait for hot water. Use the water that poured in the container for other purposes, such as watering the plants, or give it to your pets (but make sure it is warm enough before you do).

Turn Your Thermostat Down

It turns out that you can reduce your energy consumption by simply turning down your thermostat by a few degrees. When it comes to room temperature, you probably won't feel the difference. But as long as energy consumption is concerned, you can save lots of energy in the long run and reduce your energy bills.

See? There are so many easy and clever ways to save energy at home. If you follow these tips, you will end up with smaller energy bills on a yearly basis. This matter is worth considering.

© Everything Changes http://www.mistymorgan.net I received a free product to help facilitate this review. The opinions expressed in this review are mine and unbiased. For more information please see my disclosure policy located in the PR section of this site.