Why is energy efficiency important?
Energy efficiency and conservation are high priorities in California. As Californians, we are always hearing that our major goal is to actually save the amount of energy generated and used altogether. Sometimes we call this unused energy a “negawatt” — a watt of energy that’s never been produced because it was unnecessary. Of course, avoiding the use of energy in the first place is the cleanest and least expensive option, however there are many options for lowering your families consumption of energy. That’s why energy utilities prioritize energy-efficient technology and conservation practices, even over renewable energy resources.
How can I achieve energy-efficiency?
Technological innovation plays a big role in improving energy-efficiency. Many products available today are designed to be energy-efficient. For example, newer, compact fluorescent light bulbs use one-third of the energy of older, incandescent bulbs to light the same space. Energy Star-certified washing machines clean clothes as effectively as a less energy-efficient or water-efficient model, but with 25% less energy and 35% less water. Refrigerators are more energy efficient than ever. Generally, the larger the refrigerator, the greater the energy consumption. The most energy-efficient models are typically 16-20 cubic feet. Clothing washer and dryer units have also become more energy friendly. Many ENERGY STAR qualified washing machines and dryers will use over 50% less water and energy through each load of laundry. Technology advancements have been saving a lot on our energy costs.
What adjustments to your daily work habits can add up to big savings on your energy and water bills?
Keep Your Freezer Full - An empty freezer uses more energy to stay cold. Pack your freezer with more food or even with gallon containers of water.
Adjust Your Refrigerator’s Temperature - The colder the temperature, the more energy used, so set your fridge between 35° – 38° F.
Turn Off Lights When You Leave a Room - Simply flipping the light switch when no one’s there is an easy way to save energy.
Use Cold Water for Full Loads of Laundry - Cold water gets your clothes just as clean as hot, and you will use less energy. Hold off on doing laundry until you have a full load or adjust the water level or load size appropriately.
Draw the Curtains or Blinds on Summer Days - Keeping intense sunlight out can keep your home naturally cooler and reduce your AC bill.
Open the Curtains or Blinds on Winter Days - Letting in warm sunlight when it’s chilly can lower your heating bill and reduce the need for lighting.
Set Your Thermostat - Turn your thermostat up in the summer and down in the winter, and use fans strategically. During summertime, keep your air conditioning set at 78 degrees F. In wintertime, turn it to 68 degrees F.
Replace Showerheads - Installing low-flow showerheads improves your home’s water efficiency. Low-flow showerheads have a flow rate of less than 2.5 gpm (gallons per minute), while most conventional showerheads use 5 gallons per minute.
There are simple ways to make your home more energy efficient. By taking little steps together we make huge strides in energy and water conservation!
