26/07/2013
In every home there are many simple and easy ways to save energy. Saving energy can help reduce your household costs and help you make a difference to the environment.
Energy saving appliances
Water saving showerheads
Motion detecting lighting
Clothes drying rack/Clothesline
Efficient hot water system
Ceiling & wall insulation
Reverse angle ceiling fans
Blinds
Rag
House - general tips
Check for and repair any holes in your ceiling, floor, windows, walls, roof, pipes and plumbing. These can release cool or warm air which increases your energy usage especially when you are trying to keep your house cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Block off the chimney when not in use, as this will allow hot air to enter the house during summer.
Repair dripping faucets.
Turn off appliances at the power points when not in use. e.g. TV, toaster.
Heating and cooling
Keep out the heat. On hot days the north and west facing windows should have the blinds pulled down.
Install ceiling and wall insulation as this can be an efficient way to get the most out of your heating and cooling equipment.
Install exterior blinds to reduce heat gain in the house.
Close windows when heating or cooling.
Use reverse angle ceiling fans to force hot air down to floor level.
Reduce your heating/cooling thermostats.
Use heavy drapes in front of windows to retain heat.
Lighting
Motion detector lights are a great energy saver in low traffic areas.
Turn off lights whenever you aren’t using them.
Replace incandescent light bulbs with fluorescent bulbs as fluorescent bulbs use less energy and last longer.
Install motion detectors to control lighting in frequently unoccupied areas, such as the front door or side path (see Fig 2).
Clean light fittings annually as dirt reduces their output.
Laundry
Simple and effective - use the sun and wind to dry clothes instead of the dryer.
Wash clothes only when you have a full load.
Use cold water whenever possible in operating the washing machine.
Don’t rely on your dryer to dry your clothes, use the clothesline as this saves power.
Kitchen
Use the dishwasher only when you have a full load.
Defrost refrigerators and freezers before ice build-up becomes thick.
When possible cook using the range-top burners or microwave instead of the oven.
Clean the refrigerator coils regularly.
Perform scheduled maintenance on the fridge, dishwasher and oven.
Adjust door latches (if needed) and replace worn door gaskets.
Bathroom
Install a water restrictor or low-flow showerhead. Have a short shower instead of a bath.
