Your Guide to Saving Energy on Appliances
In our quest for a more sustainable lifestyle, every little change counts. And when it comes to energy and water consumption, our appliances play a significant role. Whether it’s reducing standby power usage or maximizing energy efficiency, small tweaks in everyday appliance use can make a big difference. Here are 7 simple yet effective practices to save energy and water while using your appliances.
Energy-saving practices for everyday appliance use
1. Turn Off and Unplug
It sounds simple, but it’s often overlooked. Turning off appliances when they’re not in use can significantly reduce energy consumption. But here’s the kicker: even when appliances are turned off, they may still consume energy in standby mode. Have a bunch of counter top appliances for use or for show? Using a power strip for all of them with an on/off switch to completely cut off power to devices when not needed instead of having to unplug each one.
2. Adjust Temperature Settings
Did you know that tweaking the temperature settings on your appliances can make a significant difference in energy efficiency? For instance, lowering the temperature on your water heater not only saves energy but also reduces your carbon footprint. Make sure that your refrigerator and freezer are able to run at their optimal levels to avoid strain on your power usage and your wallet. For example, if you have a refrigerator unit in your garage make sure it’s equipped with a garage kit to handle extreme temperature changes and prolong its lifespan. By making these simple adjustments, you’ll not only save energy but also extend the life of your appliances.
Reduce Water Use
1. Invest in Water-efficient Appliances
When it’s time to upgrade your appliances, opt for models that are designed to be water-efficient. Look for dishwashers and washing machines with high Energy Star ratings, as these are specifically engineered to use less water while maintaining optimal performance.
2. Use Cold Water
Did you know that heating water accounts for a significant portion of energy consumption in households? By washing your clothes in cold water instead of hot or warm water, you can drastically reduce energy usage. Plus, cold water washing can help preserve the color and integrity of your clothes.
3. Run Full Loads
Whether it’s the dishwasher or the washing machine, only run these appliances when you have a full load. Running partial loads wastes water and energy, so wait until you have enough dishes or laundry to maximize efficiency. Partial loads are still better than washing by hand, not just to spare your hands and manicure! Did you know that using a dishwasher can actually save more water than washing dishes by hand? It’s true! Dishwashers are designed to use water more efficiently, only using the precise amount needed for each cycle. In contrast, hand washing often leads to excessive water usage as we tend to leave the tap running. So, next time you’re debating between hand washing and using the dishwasher, remember that letting your dishwasher do the job can be the more eco-friendly choice!
Maintenance to Maximize Efficiency
1. Regular Cleaning
Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on appliance components, hindering their efficiency. Regularly clean your appliances, including vents, coils, and filters, to ensure optimal performance. Most refrigerator manufacturers recommend every 6 months, especially Sub-Zero Refrigerators and other built-in units. If you have furry pets… you might have to do it a bit more often.
2. Professional Maintenance
While DIY maintenance is essential, some tasks are best left to the professionals. Schedule routine maintenance with our team to inspect and tune up your appliances for maximum energy efficiency and longevity. For HVAC, it’s safer for you to have someone else on your roof or in your attic that is an expert. If you want to save time and energy, have one of our technicians come out take of your refrigerator cleaning, oven calibration, or other appliance maintenance checks.
Make saving energy and water with your appliances easy. If you don’t want to handle the dirty work, our expert team can take of your maintenance and provide straightforward tips to help you effortlessly save energy and water while using your appliances. By implementing these simple practices into your daily routine, you’ll not only make a “bear-y” positive impact on the environment but also see significant savings on your utility bills. Imagine enjoying a brighter, more sustainable future without the stress of complicated energy management. Let us help you power up your appliances and power down your energy consumption today!
