Beatrice Lang
Saving electricity is not only beneficial for the environment but also for your wallet. There are many ways to reduce electricity use, from simple habits to home improvements and smart buying tips. For example, turning off lights and appliances when not in use, using energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances, adjusting temperature settings, and improving home insulation can all contribute to significant electricity savings. Implementing these changes can lead to a more energy-efficient home, reducing energy costs and contributing to a more sustainable future.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Choose a green energy supplier | Solar, wind, low-impact hydroelectric, or geothermal |
| Dispose of old appliances properly | Hand down devices that still work to family members, or search for buy-back programs |
| Choose energy-efficient appliances | Look for the Energy Star label |
| Insulate your home | Attic, walls, floors, basement, and crawlspace |
| Turn off lights when not in use | Replace incandescent bulbs with LED lights |
| Limit the use of household appliances during peak hours | Use heavy appliances during the early morning or late evening |
| Adjust appliance settings | Set your refrigerator temperature between 28 and 42 degrees Fahrenheit, wash clothes in cold water |
| Limit the use of the clothes dryer | Air-dry clothing when possible |
| Turn off vampire devices | Any appliance with a clock or "instant on" setting uses electricity even when on standby |
| Reduce shower time | Shorter showers save energy and water |
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What You'll Learn
Turn off lights and appliances when not in use
One of the simplest ways to save electricity is to turn off the lights when you're not using them. Lighting makes up 11% of the average UK household's electricity consumption, so turning off lights when you leave a room can save around £7 a year on energy bills.
Traditional incandescent light bulbs consume a lot of electricity and need to be replaced frequently. Halogen incandescent bulbs, compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), and light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs) use 25-80% less electricity and last 3 to 25 times longer. LEDs, for example, use up to 85% less energy to deliver the same amount of light as incandescents. They also reduce a home's carbon dioxide emissions by up to 35kg a year, which is the equivalent of driving 100 miles.
Replacing traditional incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient alternatives, such as LEDs, can significantly reduce electricity consumption and lower electricity bills. LEDs are a more energy-efficient option, lasting longer and helping to save money. They use about 6-8 watts to produce the same amount of light as a 60-watt incandescent bulb. They are also twice as efficient as compact fluorescent lights (CFLs).
In addition to using energy-efficient light bulbs, it is important to turn off appliances when they are not in use. Appliances such as coffee makers, toasters, and phone chargers draw power even when they are not actively in use. This is known as "phantom load". Using a power strip can help eliminate these energy "sneakers" by allowing you to conveniently turn off multiple devices at once.
Another way to save electricity is to limit the use of household appliances during peak hours. Using heavy appliances during the early morning or late evening hours can help reduce the strain on the electrical grid and lower your electricity costs. Adjusting appliance settings can also help, such as washing clothes in cold water and setting the refrigerator and freezer temperatures to optimal levels.
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Buy energy-efficient appliances
When it comes to buying new appliances, it is worth investing in energy-efficient products. Older appliances tend to use more energy than newer models, so if you are in the market for a new appliance, look for the Energy Star label. Products with this label typically use 10-40% less energy than other new models, and some electric companies and state governments offer consumer rebates on these products.
Energy Star-certified heat pump water heaters, for example, can save a household of four people approximately $470 per year on their electric bills compared to a standard electric water heater. Over the lifetime of the water heater, that adds up to over $4,500 in savings.
Another example of an energy-efficient appliance is a laptop. If you are shopping for a new computer, consider buying a laptop instead of a desktop model. Laptops use significantly less energy and can be hooked up to external monitors and keyboards when you want a bigger screen.
LED light bulbs are another energy-efficient product worth investing in. They use 25-80% less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs and last 3 to 25 times longer. They are also twice as efficient as compact fluorescent lights (CFLs).
When disposing of old appliances, it is important to do so in a planet-friendly way. Hand down devices that still work to younger family members or look online for buy-back programs. Many retailers also have extensive in-store recycling programs for working and non-working devices.
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Reduce water heating costs
Water heating accounts for about 14% to 18% of energy consumption in a typical household. Here are some ways to reduce water heating costs:
Reduce Hot Water Consumption
- Take shorter showers. Showering typically accounts for the largest percentage of hot water consumption in a home. Reducing your showers by a couple of minutes can cut water heating costs.
- Only boil as much water as you need in the kettle.
- Install low-flow faucets and showerheads. Low-flow faucets and showerheads restrict the amount of hot water that gets through, helping you cut down on your hot water consumption.
- Only run full loads of dishes and laundry. Make sure you’re getting the most out of the hot water you’re using by waiting until your dishwasher or washing machine is full.
Lower Your Water Heater’s Thermostat
Most manufacturers set their water heaters at 140°F, but the typical household only needs it set at around 120°F. Lowering the temperature is one of the easiest ways to cut down on water heating costs.
Add Insulation
Insulation helps contain the heat inside your water heater, reducing gas and electricity consumption. Insulate your water heater and the first 6 feet of hot and cold water pipes connected to the unit to prevent heat loss and conserve heat.
Install Water-Efficient Appliances
When it's time to replace your dishwasher, washing machine, or water heater, opt for water-efficient units that consume less hot water. Many new appliances use half the energy of those from 20 years ago. Look for products with the Energy Star label, which typically use about 10 to 40 percent less energy than other new models.
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Use smart power strips
Smart power strips are an effective way to save electricity and money on your energy bills. They are particularly useful if you have children who might forget to turn things off or if you have a lot of electronic devices that go into standby mode.
Smart power strips have two basic components: electrical outlets and circuitry that monitors and controls those outlets. When a device plugged into a basic smart strip goes into standby mode, its power consumption drops. The circuitry detects this change and cuts the power to that outlet, while the rest of the outlets in use stay on. This is important because vampire devices that are left on or on standby mode can add a significant amount to your energy bill.
Some smart power strips also come with one or two unmonitored, always-on outlets. These are for devices that always need power, like a cordless phone base or an alarm system. You can also get smart power strips that use a USB cable to monitor your computer usage. When you shut down your computer, the strip senses the change in power levels and cuts the electrical current to the secondary outlet.
However, it's important to note that smart power strips that plug into a computer's USB port may not work as intended if your computer powers its USB ports all the time. Some computers let you configure whether USB ports are powered when the computer is shut down, so this can be adjusted. Similarly, smart power strips that plug into the wall can struggle if their sensors aren't precise enough to detect when devices go into standby mode.
Smart power strips can be a great way to save electricity, but it's important to choose the right one for your needs and to be aware of any potential limitations or adjustments that may be required.
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Choose an energy-efficient electricity supplier
Choosing an energy-efficient electricity supplier can be a great way to save electricity and reduce your environmental impact. Here are some tips to help you choose a supplier that aligns with your goals:
Know Your Options
Firstly, understand the energy landscape in your state or region. In some areas, you may be required to choose an electricity provider, while in other areas, you may have the option to stick with your default utility company or select an alternative supplier. Contact your local distribution utility or utility regulatory commission to learn about the options available to you. They can provide information on whether you have retail choice and, if so, a list of alternate electricity suppliers.
Research Suppliers
Once you know your options, it's time to research the suppliers in your area. Find out what services they offer and whether they provide energy generated from renewable sources such as wind, solar, or hydroelectric power. Some suppliers may also offer incentives, pricing models, and payment options that fit your needs.
Compare Offers
Contact multiple suppliers and compare their offers. Ask about their pricing, contract terms, and any additional services provided. You can also check for customer reviews and satisfaction ratings to get an idea of their reliability and quality of service.
Understand Your Energy Usage
To make an informed decision, it's essential to understand your energy usage patterns. Review your billing history to determine your average energy consumption throughout the year. This information will help suppliers plan for your supply needs and offer tailored solutions.
Consider Environmental Impact
If reducing your carbon footprint is a priority, look for suppliers that use renewable power resources or offer clean energy solutions. Some suppliers may even provide options to support renewable energy initiatives, such as paying a small premium on your electric bill to support green energy projects.
Switch with Caution
Finally, remember that switching suppliers is a choice. While competitive suppliers can offer attractive rates, there is no guarantee that you will save money. Additionally, be aware of the terms and conditions, including the cancellation period, which can vary depending on your agreement.
By following these steps, you can make a well-informed decision when choosing an energy-efficient electricity supplier. Remember to consider your unique needs, compare multiple options, and always keep yourself informed about the energy landscape in your area.
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Frequently asked questions
Here are some ways to save electricity:
- Turn off lights when you're not using them or when you leave a room.
- Replace traditional incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient alternatives such as halogen incandescent bulbs, compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), or light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs).
- Install a smart thermostat to automatically adjust your home's temperature settings.
- Reduce your use of "always-on" appliances.
- Wash your laundry with cold water.
To save electricity when using entertainment devices, make sure to turn off your television, computer, video game consoles, cable boxes, and digital video recorders when you're not using them. Avoid streaming video through game consoles like PlayStations or Xboxes, as they can use up to 30 times more energy. Instead, consider buying an Internet-ready television or a small add-on device like Apple TV, which uses very little power.
When heating food, use a toaster oven or a microwave instead of a regular oven. Wash and dry full loads of laundry and avoid using a tumble dryer unless necessary. When doing the dishes, scrape dishes instead of rinsing them before loading them into the dishwasher.
Install a low-flow showerhead to save energy and water. Replace old showerheads to prevent excess hot water from going to waste. Run a ventilation fan during and after showers and baths to control humidity and avoid moisture problems.
