Discover your inner energy-saver!
Saving energy at home is a good way to do your part for the environment. You probably have your own energy-savings tricks, but here are a few more green living tips.
Lighting
- Use LED bulbs, which consume much less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Heating
- Set your thermostat to 18°C at night and 21°C during the day.
- For unoccupied rooms, keep the temperature at 15°C.
- Clean your radiators or hot-air vents frequently and avoid placing furniture in front of them.
Water
- Opt for a short shower instead of a bath and install low-flow shower heads.
- Reduce your water-heater setting to 60°C and improve the insulation around hot water pipes.
- Use cold water for laundry and rinsing dishes.
- Start the dishwasher only when it is full and let dishes air dry.
Appliances
- For your major appliances, look for the international ENERGY STAR symbol; appliances that carry it can help you cut down on use and energy costs by 30-50%.
- When possible, use a toaster oven, a microwave or kettle instead of the oven or stove elements.
Computer
- Turn off your printer and your speakers whenever you’re not using them.
- At the end of the day, turn off your computer and all devices attached to it.
- Print documents only when necessary; print in black and white and preferably in double-sided (duplex) mode.
Various
- Dim lighting when watching TV; in addition to saving energy, you will feel like you’re at the movies!
- Install a cover on your pool at night so that your water stays warm and you won’t need to run the heat pump.
- When you are away from home for an extended period, disconnect all electronic devices. .
By devoting a little energy to reducing energy consumption, we can all significantly reduce our electricity bills while having a positive impact on the environment. That’s at least two good reasons to take action!
