From Swapping To LED Bulbs To Choosing Energy-Efficient Appliances: 5 Simple Hacks To Save Electricity At Your Home

By using less electricity at home, you're not only helping the environment, but you're also saving money. Many people think this requires a huge investment in technology or new behaviours, but the opposite is true.

5 Simple Hacks To Save Electricity At Your Home

We can upgrade the home we live in with little investment, simply by making a few small choices to save energy. Here are five simple choices that can help save electricity at your home, according to Dinesh Chandra Pandey, Founder, Shankar Fenestrations & Glasses, Delhi.

1. Change to LED Light Bulbs

One of the most affordable ways to sustainably reduce energy use is to switch from traditional incandescent light bulbs to LED light bulbs. An average LED light bulb consumes up to 80% less electric energy than an average incandescent bulb.

LED light bulbs also last longer, which saves money and creates less waste. You will notice a little money saved every month on your electric bill. With a variety of brightnesses and shapes available, there's an LED bulb for every area in the home, and simply making the switch will help you save money over time.

2. Unplug Items When Not in Use

Many devices continue to draw power even when turned off—this is known as 'phantom power'. Most people don't realise that chargers for cell phones, televisions, and microwaves are still using electricity when the device is not connected or the unit is off.

While it's impractical to unplug every device you own, you can unplug those you aren't actively using. If you prefer not to unplug items individually, you can simply turn off the power strip they're connected to.

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3. Use Natural Light and Air Flow

Instead of immediately flipping a light switch, simply open the curtains or shades to let in natural daylight. Using daylight saves energy, and during the winter, allowing sun into the room can provide free heat, reducing your reliance on your furnace.

Similarly, use natural airflow to cool your home. In the morning after the sun rises, or in the evening after it sets, open the windows to allow a breeze in and cool the house down naturally, avoiding the need for air conditioning.

4. Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances

When purchasing major appliances like washing machines, refrigerators, or air conditioning units, look for models that display the ‘Energy Star’ label or are otherwise rated as energy-efficient.

While these appliances may be slightly more costly upfront, they are often the cheapest to run and maintain, which will save you a significant amount of money in the future.

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5. Enhance Insulation in Your Home

Proper insulation is key—it helps keep the heat in during cold months and the cooler temperatures in during hot months.

Be sure to check your windows and doors for areas where air might be leaking out of your home. If you find leaks, buy weatherstripping or a type of sealant to fill the space. You can also add insulation to your walls or attic; even a little improvement will help. Better insulation prevents your heating or A/C unit from having to work overtime, which directly lowers your monthly energy bill.

Image courtesy: Freepik

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