Save Energy Too (2)

Recently I posted an article about how to save energy by buying energy efficient computers (which are laptop or desktop?). Now, I am going to talk about saving energy again and how you could do that by using energy efficient appliances. Before, we go into using these appliances we need to know a little about energy saving and we do it. We save energy in our house so that we can pay less for our electricity bills and not just that, we can reduce our carbon footprint.


It is easy to make changes that can reduce energy costs in the home. Through a mix of careful use and smart appliance purchases, it is usually possible to save substantially on electric, gas and air conditioning bills.

1. Often, small changes can substantially reduce energy costs in the home. Some take little effort, such as turning off unneeded lights or letting dishes air-dry in the dishwasher without the heat setting. Others require simple fixes, like using energy efficient light bulbs. Fixing leaks around windows will save on air conditioning costs during the day. It is important to reduce the air conditioning at night because it supposed to be cooler at night. The natural air is also important, so open some windows for ventilation. Remember, good ventilation is important to keep your home cool
2. Making smart choices when purchasing new appliances can go a long way to reducing energy costs at home. For example, some refrigerators, washers and dryers use substantially less energy than others. Over the years the appliance will be used, the savings can be substantial. Checking labels on appliances and asking sales staff for energy-efficient recommendations are two easy ways to find models that will help reduce energy costs. Apart from that, in some appliances there are energy star ratings. The more stars the more energy it saves which is good. Try asking sale representatives before buying new appliances.
3. Utility companies can be a helpful resource in reducing energy costs. Utility bills often list a phone number to contact or website you can visit for further information. In some company like Tenaga National Berhad also provides on how to save energy. Though, it's not much but its useful.
   

These are some tips to save energy!

• Power outlet vs. Power Extension: Plugging your TV and VCR/DVD into a power extension rather than an outlet will save you about 2 percent on your annual electricity bill. Even when you turn these appliances off, they continuously leak up to 15 watts of electricity if they're plugged into an outlet. When plugged into a power strip, however, these appliances leak only about one to three watts. Isn't that helpful? But remember not to overuse power extension at your house because it is a fire hazard.

• Incandescent bulbs (we call it mentol yang tak putih) vs. Compact fluorescent bulbs (lampu yang putih tapi kecil macam mentol, yang besar dan panjang bukan compact): Fluorescent bulbs will save you between 50 and 75 percent in annual lighting costs over incandescent bulbs. Even though these bulbs are initially more expensive, they give off less heat and last up to ten times longer than incandescent ones. If you do have incandescent bulbs, think about installing a dimmer switch and reducing your bulbs' brightness by half. This will make them last longer.

• Top-load washer (masukkan muatan dari atas) vs. Front-load washer (masukkan muatan dari hadapan): A front-load washer will cut your water and washer-related energy use by more than half over a top-load washer. You only need about 10 to 20 gallons (40 to 80 litres) of water to do a full load, while a top-load washer would have required about 40 gallons (150 litres). If you want to increase your savings even more, wash only with cold water the next time you empty your hamper.

Overall, reducing energy costs in the home can be quite simple and take surprisingly little effort. With some quick fixes and smart energy use decisions, the monthly savings on energy bills can add up quickly. Last but not least, Selamat Hari Raya!

PS: I always thought that telling others about reducing carbon footprint is important to keep out relationship with the environment. Islam wants us to take care of our relationship with GOD, HUMAN, and as well as ENVIRONMENT. Please give comments if you'd like it to be translated in Bahasa Melayu.