Reduce the temperature of your refrigerator: Refrigerators contribute for up to 13.7% of total household energy use. Set your fridge to 37 degrees Fahrenheit and your freezer to 3 degrees Fahrenheit to save electricity.
The decision and practice of using less energy is known as energy conservation. Turning off the light when you leave a room, unplugging equipment when not in use, and walking instead of driving are all ways to save energy. People save energy for two major reasons: to have more control over their energy bills and to minimize the burden on the earth's natural resources.
Energy Conservation vs. Energy Efficiency:
What is the difference?
Although energy conservation and efficiency are connected, they have different meanings in the energy industry. Energy conservation is consuming less energy by changing your routines and activities. In contrast, energy efficiency entails adopting equipment that uses less energy to achieve the same purpose. Energy-saving light bulbs, major household appliances, smart thermostats, and smart home hubs such as UtilityKing Connect are all examples of energy-efficient technologies.
So, why is energy conservation important?
While energy efficiency may cost you money up front before potentially saving you money in the long run, energy conservation is something you can do right away, either at very little or no cost to you. Here are ten energy-saving solutions you may do right away.
Reduce the temperature of your refrigerator: Refrigerators contribute for up to 13.7% of total household energy use. Set your fridge to 37 degrees Fahrenheit and your freezer to 3 degrees Fahrenheit to save electricity.
Use energy-saving light bulbs:Install energy-saving CFL or LED bulbs in your lighting fixtures to save 25-35 percent more electricity than standard incandescent bulbs.
Clean or replace air filters as directed: The air conditioner and heater are the most energy-intensive equipment in most houses, and unclean air filters force these appliances to work even harder. Mark the filter with the date it was installed to assist you remember when it needs to be replaced.
Complete loads: To get the most energy-saving usage out of each run cycle, make sure your dishwasher and washing machine are both full.
Make use of smart power strips: Household devices continue to drain power from plugs even while not in use. The term "phantom load" refers to this phenomena. Smart power strips that shut down appliances that have gone into standby mode can help you reduce phantom-load expenses, potentially saving you money and energy.
Air dry dishes and clothing: Consider letting the dishes air dry instead of utilizing your dishwasher's drying mode. On a lovely day, instead of using the dryer, hang your clothing outside to dry.
Use glass or ceramic baking dishes: When you do this, you can adjust the oven temperature to 25 degrees lower than specified in the recipe.
Cook on the appropriate-sized burner: Use your stove's tiny burners for little pots and large burners for large pots to save electricity.
Reduce air leaks in your home: You pay for warm air in the winter and cool air in the summer; don't let that money go to waste! Check for cracks and gaps in your windows and doors and fix them with fresh weather stripping or caulk.
Home Temperature Maintenance: Keep your house a bit hotter in the summer and a little colder in the winter. Wear lighter clothing in the summer and a few more layers in the winter to compensate for the few degrees difference in temperature. In the winter, set the thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit and in the summer, to 78 degrees Fahrenheit.
When it comes to energy conservation and efficiency, adjusting your daily energy habits is critical to managing your energy consumption. Being conscious of cues (such as feeling chilly) might assist you in focusing on a new, rewarding habit (grabbing a blanket instead of raising the thermostat).
Another way to save energy is to dial down the thermostat on your gas or electric water heater. Most typical or energy-efficient water heaters are designed to retain water around 140°F, although water at 120°F works just as well.
Check out these resources for more energy conservation ideas:
How Shade Landscaping Can Help Home Energy Conservation
Home Energy Savings Series: Radiant Floor Heating
Home Energy Savings: Dimmers, Switches, Motion Sensors & Timers
Tiny Houses: Energy Efficiency Spotlight
The Power of Habit: Changing Energy Consumption Habits
22 Earth Day Activities to Help the Planet
How to Choose Solar Lights for Your Home
Home Energy Savings Series: Door Sealing and Weather Stripping