Thursday, 24 November 2011

A Look At Energy Efficiency

By Gnifrus Urquart


Energy Efficiency has become a way of life with the continued increases in costs of producing electricity. Most people spend at least part of their day trying to find additional means of lowering their electric bill, and may be surprised at some of the devices which use more power than previously considered. Let's take a look at some possibilities for saving money.

Energy Star thermostats can actually be programmed to maintain temperatures that are regulated according to the lifestyle of the family. To improve the performance of electric furnaces, keeping them cleaned, lubricated and supplied with new filters. Sealing off leaks around air duct joints can save 30% on the heating bill. Each 1 degree Celsius can equal a loss or gain of up to 25% on the bill from the power company.

Burning wood may still be the cheapest means of heating a home, but it loses much of its effect up the chimney. Suet accumulation can cause chimney fires and destroy the entire building. By limiting the amount of logs to no more than 3 at a time, it decreases the chance of these fires, and still provides sufficient heat.

Wait until there is a full load of dishes to be washed before running the dishwasher, and use cold water in the laundry when there is finally a full load to be done. Keep in mind that front load machines use only half as much water and electricity as top load units. Light bulbs can be exchanged for the compact fluorescent models which also produce less heat.

Doors and windows can allow heat to escape, and cold air to get in, during the winter, and the opposite during summer months. Resealing these, along with garage doors and attic passages can also also eliminate energy leaks. Using plastic to cover windows can decrease temperature changes.

Many people still think that shutting off their computer equipment will damage the components, but this is no longer the case. Both the computer, and the monitor, uses 90 watts of power each second, and a laptop uses 70 watts per second. Shutting down when not in use can save a significant amount of money.

Finding new ways to lower the monthly bills for electricity are being found everyday, and most people are concerned about the cost of living and how to make ends meet. When it comes to energy efficiency, there are many other things a person can do to help improve the comfort of their homes and offices, by finding out more information on this subject.




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