Saving energy is the process of identifying points of energy wastage and taking measures to minimize this loss. These measures may include simple practices such as turning off the lights when you exit a room or unplugging appliances when they’re not in use, as well as installing energy-saving appliances and fixtures.
Transforming your home into an energy-efficient hub means you’ll be saving money and giving your contribution to cutting down on emissions. By reducing your household's need for energy, you’ll help reduce the demand for the use of fossil fuels.
All in all, the benefits are enormous, and here are some of the small steps you can take in that direction!
Upgrade to more energy-efficient appliances
If you're looking to purchase a new appliance, opt for more recent models that offer the best energy efficiency. For instance, in Australia, the energy efficiency rating label is mandatory on appliances such as air-conditioners, dishwashers, dryers, washers, computer monitors, fridges and freezers, and they range from six to ten stars.
If you notice some of your appliances aren’t working properly, the chances are they’re sucking up all the energy causing enormous waste. In such situations, it’s smart to call professionals to establish the problem and fix it. With each new energy-efficient appliance you buy, you’ll discover in the long run that your total energy consumption will be reduced.
A lot of Australian households are also upgrading their meters and installing smart meters that monitor all consumption in the house and offer more clarity on your spending. If you're interested in installing these smart meters, it's recommended you rely on an expert electrician from Artarmon, New South Wales, to ensure proper, cost-efficient, safe and reliable installation adhering to Australian standards. This should not be done as a DIY project.
Switch off when not in use
An easy way to cut down on your consumption of electricity is to switch off your appliances when not in use. Such electrical appliances draw as much as 75% of electricity while waiting to be used, and you’ll recognise that by noticing if they have a standby setting or a little light glowing – the TV, computer and video games consoles. If you don’t use them often, turn them off and even unplug them to conserve energy.
It may seem that the electricity they consume is insignificant, but it all sums up over a longer period on your electricity bill.
Do full loads of laundry
Most modern washing machines and dryers are marked as energy-efficient, but even such appliances still consume tons of electricity every time you use them.
To save electricity as much as possible, do full loads of laundry at once. As a result, you’ll use the washer less each week and save the money that would go to waste every time you wash just a few items. Also, if the water doesn’t have to be very hot, washing at 40º instead of 60º saves up to 55% on your monthly electricity bill.
Install energy-efficient light bulbs
Energy-efficient light bulbs are an excellent alternative to standard, incandescent lights. You can opt for a compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) or led bulbs. CFLs consume between 50-80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.
They are initially more expensive than regular bulbs, but the latter ones use more energy. On the other side, CFLs and LEDs last longer, so over time, the cost balances out as you conserve more energy.
Invest in smart home technology
Smart home technology can help save energy in general, and if you can afford it, you’ll be able to significantly cut your electricity bill. A smart thermostat, for instance, can ensure you never heat an empty home and even sync your heating according to the weather.
Smart home tech is constantly advancing, so it ranges from small gadgets to large-scale innovations, like solar panels, heat pumps or thermal energy storage. Everything is designed to make homes more comfortable and efficient, or even to generate energy.
These essential tips on how to save electricity at home may seem like irrelevant or inconsequential adjustments, but these small steps amount to something much bigger in the long run, particularly if each one of us makes an effort, regardless of how small.
Written by Diana Smith
About the Author
Diana Smith is a full time mum of two beautiful girls and is interested in sustainability, ecology and home improvement. She enjoys exercising and preparing healthy meals for her family. You can find her on Twitter here.
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