6 Simple Energy Saving Tips for a Modern Home

——  June 22, 2022

Our environment is impacted by our everyday activities and one of such activities is energy consumption. Appliances and electronics account for a large portion of energy use in an average Nigerian home, therefore it is critical that we become aware of how our various home appliances and devices may contribute to energy waste or misuse and consequently become intentional about curbing such wastages. 

Though at first glance this may appear to involve some technicalities, the fact is that there are some very basic lifestyle changes that can be made in order to reduce energy use without the use of any special tools or installations. Applying the energy-saving tips listed in this article will ultimately help save the environment whilst you also make significant savings on your budget for electricity in your household.

  1. Light bulbs: 

Use energy-saving CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs) instead of the conventional incandescent light bulbs. Although CFLs cost significantly more than incandescent light bulbs, CFLs only use a fraction of the electricity conventional bulbs use and also last much longer; thus, ensuring a win-win for your pocket as well as the environment.

In addition, always remember to turn off all light bulbs when they are not in use, especially during the day when there is usually adequate daylight. 

  1. Laundry: 

Wash clothes with cold water instead of hot water when you can. Instead of using a dryer, air-dry or hang your clothes on a clothesline. Don’t use the dryer in the washing machine unless it houses a full load. 

  1. Refrigerators: 

Before you open the refrigerator, consider what you want to take out. Allowing the door to remain open for too long wastes energy. 

  1. Take Cold Showers and fewer Warm Baths: 

Taking cold showers instead of warm baths will reduce your usage of the water heater, hence reducing your energy consumption. This however is subject to the state of your health and what feels right for you.

  1. Turn Off all Appliances Not in Use: 

Turn off all lights, computers, and electronics when they are not in use. Plug all your electronics such as computers, TVs, and DVDs into power strips. Energy is consumed from the outlet even when your appliances are turned off. Unplug the item or use a power strip to save money on energy.

  1. Check Appliances for their Energy Efficiency: 

Appliances manufactured in different countries have different ways in which they capture and show how equipment ranks in energy efficiency. For example, Energy Star labels are given when appliances and products meet strict guidelines of energy efficiency from the U.S. Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency for products manufactured in or for the United States. Carry out your due diligence in order to be sure that all your appliances are energy efficient.