Use these 10 household appliances properly; Save electricity, money, and the planet

Household appliances have become an integral part of our daily lives, making our lives easier and more convenient. However, with convenience comes a price, and that price is often in the form of energy consumption. While these appliances are designed to save time and effort, they can also be the cause of high energy bills and contribute to environmental degradation. In this blog post, we will discuss ten household appliances and provide tips on how to use them efficiently to save electricity, money, and the planet.

---

Table of contents

1. Refrigerator
2. Ironing board
3. Television
4. Computer
5. Mixer
6. Induction Cooker
7. Washing Machine
8. Air Conditioner
9. Water heater
10. Inverter

---

Refrigerator

Refrigerators are one of the most energy-consuming appliances in a household. They are essential appliances that keep our food fresh and safe to consume. However, they can also be a significant contributor to high energy bills. Here are some tips on how to save electricity in your refrigerator:

• Keep the refrigerator clean and organized: A dirty and cluttered refrigerator can affect its efficiency and increase energy consumption. Make sure to clean the fridge regularly and organize the food items to avoid blocking the air vents.
• Set the right temperature: The ideal temperature for a refrigerator is between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit. Any temperature above 40 degrees Fahrenheit can increase energy consumption. Use a thermometer to ensure that your refrigerator is set at the right temperature.
• Defrost the refrigerator regularly: Frost build-up can reduce the efficiency of your refrigerator and increase energy consumption. Make sure to defrost your fridge regularly, preferably once a month, to ensure that it's running efficiently.
• Avoid placing hot food in the fridge: Placing hot food in the fridge requires more energy to cool them down. Let the food cool down to room temperature before placing them in the refrigerator.
• Keep the refrigerator door closed: Opening and closing the fridge door frequently can increase energy consumption. Make sure to keep the door closed as much as possible and avoid leaving it open for an extended period.
• Check the door seal: A broken or worn-out door seal can allow cold air to escape, increasing energy consumption. Check the door seal regularly and replace it if necessary.
• Fill the refrigerator: A full refrigerator tends to be more energy-efficient than an empty one. Make sure to fill the fridge with food items, but avoid overpacking it.

Back to top of page

Ironing board

Ironing clothes is a task that many people do on a regular basis. However, it can be an energy-intensive task if not done efficiently. Here are some tips on how to save electricity when using an ironing board:

Choose the right iron: Invest in an energy-efficient iron that consumes less electricity. Look for irons that have a high wattage rating, as they tend to heat up quickly, reducing the time required for ironing.

• Iron in bulk: Ironing several clothes at once can save you energy as the iron will retain heat for a while, reducing the time required for reheating.
• Use an ironing board: Ironing on a flat surface reduces the need for more energy consumption as it enables the heat to distribute evenly on the clothes. Make sure to choose an ironing board that is sturdy and has a flat surface.
• Use a steam iron: Steam irons are more efficient in removing wrinkles and creases, reducing the need for multiple passes, which consumes more electricity.
• Set the right temperature: Make sure to set the right temperature for the type of fabric you are ironing. Avoid using high-temperature settings for delicate fabrics as it can damage them and consume more electricity.
• Unplug the iron when not in use: Always unplug the iron from the socket when not in use to avoid energy wastage. Leaving the iron plugged in even when not in use can still consume energy.
• Iron when clothes are still damp: Ironing clothes when they are still slightly damp can reduce the need for more passes and save energy.

Back to top of page

Television

Televisions are a common appliance in households worldwide. They provide entertainment, information, and relaxation. However, televisions are also energy-intensive appliances that contribute to high electricity bills. Here are some tips on how to save electricity when using a television:

• Choose an energy-efficient TV: When purchasing a new TV, look for models with energy-efficient features such as LED or OLED screens. These models consume less electricity than older models, making them a better option for saving energy.
• Set the right brightness: A brighter screen consumes more electricity. Adjust the brightness level of your TV to a comfortable level and avoid setting it too high.
• Turn off the TV when not in use: Turning off the TV when not in use can save a significant amount of electricity. Make sure to turn off the TV and not just put it on standby mode, which still consumes electricity.
• Use a power strip: Connecting your TV to a power strip makes it easy to turn off multiple devices at once, reducing energy consumption. Make sure to unplug the power strip when not in use.
• Watch TV in a well-lit room: Watching TV in a well-lit room can reduce the need for more brightness, which consumes more electricity. Avoid watching TV in a dark room or a room with poor lighting.
• Choose the right screen size: Larger screens consume more electricity than smaller ones. Consider the size of the room and the distance between the TV and the viewer when choosing the right screen size.
• Avoid using additional devices: Additional devices such as gaming consoles and sound systems consume more electricity when connected to the TV. Avoid using these devices as much as possible or choose energy-efficient models.

Back to top of page

Computer

However, they can also be energy-intensive appliances that contribute to high electricity bills. Here are some tips on how to save electricity when using a computer:

• Choose an energy-efficient computer: When purchasing a new computer, look for models that are energy-efficient. Look for devices that have a high energy star rating or are certified by a reputable energy efficiency rating organization.
• Adjust the brightness: Reducing the brightness level of your computer screen can save electricity. Most modern computer displays have adjustable brightness levels. Adjust the brightness level to a comfortable level that does not strain your eyes.
• Turn off the monitor when not in use: Turning off the monitor when not in use can save a significant amount of electricity. Make sure to turn off the monitor and not just put it on sleep mode, which still consumes electricity.
• Use a power strip: Connect your computer to a power strip that makes it easy to turn off multiple devices at once, reducing energy consumption. Make sure to unplug the power strip when not in use.
• Use the power-saving mode: Most modern computers have power-saving modes that reduce energy consumption when the device is not in use. Make sure to activate this mode when you're not using your computer.
• Reduce screen savers and animations: Screen savers and animations consume more electricity than static images. Reduce the use of screen savers and animations to save electricity.
• Avoid leaving devices plugged in: Avoid leaving devices such as printers and external hard drives plugged in when not in use. They still consume electricity even when not in use.

Back to top of page

Mixer

Mixers are a popular kitchen appliance used for various tasks such as mixing, blending, and grinding. However, they can also be energy-intensive appliances that contribute to high electricity bills. Here are some tips on how to save electricity when using a mixer:

• Choose the right size: Using the right size of mixer for the task at hand can help save electricity. Avoid using a large mixer for small tasks as it consumes more electricity.
• Use the right speed: Using a high-speed setting on your mixer consumes more electricity. Use a lower speed setting for tasks that do not require high speed.
• Use the pulse function: The pulse function uses short bursts of energy to mix or grind ingredients, which consumes less electricity than continuous high-speed blending.
• Don't overfill the mixer: Overfilling the mixer can cause it to work harder, which consumes more electricity. Avoid filling the mixer beyond its recommended capacity.
• Use the mixer for longer periods: Using the mixer for longer periods is more energy-efficient than using it for shorter periods multiple times.
• Clean the mixer regularly: Cleaning the mixer regularly can help it function more efficiently, reducing the amount of electricity it consumes.
• Unplug the mixer when not in use: Even when not in use, mixers consume electricity when plugged in. Unplug the mixer when not in use to save electricity.

Back to top of page

Induction Cooker

Induction cookers have become a popular alternative to traditional gas stoves in recent years due to their energy efficiency and safety features. However, they can still consume significant amounts of electricity if not used correctly. Here are some tips on how to save electricity when using an induction cooker:

• Use the right size cookware: Using the right size of cookware on the induction cooker can help save electricity. Make sure the cookware's base matches the size of the induction zone, so the heat is evenly distributed, and energy is not wasted.
• Use the correct power setting: Using high power settings for cooking tasks that don't require it consumes more electricity. Use a lower power setting for tasks that don't require high heat.
• Avoid lifting cookware frequently: Lifting cookware frequently can cause the induction cooker to work harder, which consumes more electricity. Avoid lifting cookware frequently during cooking, as it also slows down the cooking process.
• Keep the cooker clean: Keeping the induction cooker clean ensures it operates efficiently, reducing the amount of electricity it consumes.
• Use the timer function: Most induction cookers have a timer function that automatically turns off the heat after a set period, saving electricity.
• Use residual heat: After turning off the induction cooker, the residual heat can be used to continue cooking. This can save electricity as the cooker does not need to be turned back on.
• Turn off the cooker when not in use: Even when not in use, induction cookers consume electricity when plugged in. Turn off the induction cooker when not in use to save electricity.

Back to top of page

Washing Machine

Washing machines are an essential appliance in most households, but they can also be energy-intensive and contribute to high electricity bills. Here are some tips on how to save electricity when using a washing machine:

• Wash full loads: Washing full loads of laundry instead of small loads can help save electricity. Washing smaller loads takes the same amount of energy, but with fewer clothes, which is not energy-efficient.
• Use a cold wash setting: Using cold water for washing can save a significant amount of energy compared to using hot water. Most washing machines have a cold wash setting that can be used for most laundry.
• Choose an energy-efficient machine: Look for washing machines with an Energy Star rating, which indicates that the machine meets energy efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
• Use a high spin speed: Using a high spin speed when washing clothes helps remove more water, reducing the time and energy required for drying.
• Clean the lint filter: Cleaning the lint filter regularly ensures that the washing machine operates efficiently, reducing the amount of electricity it consumes.
• Use a shorter wash cycle: Many washing machines come with shorter wash cycles that use less water and electricity. Use these settings whenever possible.
• Air dry clothes: Air drying clothes instead of using the dryer can significantly reduce electricity consumption. Hang clothes outside to dry or use a clothesline indoors.

Back to top of page

Air Conditioner

Air conditioners are one of the most energy-intensive appliances in most households, and using them inefficiently can lead to high electricity bills. Here are some tips on how to save electricity when using an air conditioner:

• Choose the right size of air conditioner: Choosing an air conditioner that is too big for your room will result in higher energy consumption. Ensure that you choose an air conditioner that is the right size for your room.
• Use a programmable thermostat: Use a programmable thermostat to control the temperature of your room. Set the temperature to a comfortable level when you are in the room, and raise it when you are away.
• Maintain your air conditioner: Regular maintenance of your air conditioner ensures that it operates efficiently and consumes less electricity. Clean the air filters regularly, ensure that the refrigerant is at the correct level, and clean the condenser coils.
• Keep your room cool naturally: Use natural methods to keep your room cool, such as closing curtains or blinds during the day to block out sunlight, and using fans to circulate air.
• Use energy-efficient air conditioners: Choose air conditioners that are energy efficient and have a high energy star rating. They consume less electricity and are more environmentally friendly.
• Turn off unnecessary appliances: Turn off any unnecessary appliances in your room, such as lamps, televisions, or computers. These appliances generate heat, which can increase the load on your air conditioner.
• Use a timer: Install a timer on your air conditioner to turn it off during times when you don't need it, such as during the night or when you're away from home. This will help you save energy and reduce your electricity bills.

Back to top of page

Water Heater

Water heaters are one of the most energy-intensive appliances in most households. Here are some tips on how to save electricity when using a water heater:

• Use a timer: Install a timer on your water heater to turn it off during times when you don't need hot water, such as during the night or when you're away from home. This will help you save energy and reduce your electricity bills.
• Turn down the temperature: Lowering the temperature of your water heater by a few degrees can help you save electricity. For most households, a temperature of 120°F (49°C) is sufficient.
• Insulate your water heater: Insulating your water heater and pipes can help reduce heat loss, which will make the water heater more energy-efficient.
• Use a low-flow showerhead: Installing a low-flow showerhead can help reduce the amount of hot water you use, which will, in turn, reduce your energy consumption.
• Repair leaks: Fix any leaks in your hot water pipes or water heater promptly. Leaks can cause the water heater to run continuously, consuming more electricity and increasing your bills.
• Use a tankless water heater: A tankless water heater heats water on demand, eliminating the need for a storage tank. This can help reduce your energy consumption significantly.
• Regular maintenance: Regular maintenance of your water heater can help improve its efficiency and extend its lifespan. Ensure that the heating elements are clean, and the temperature and pressure relief valve are functioning correctly.

Back to top of page

Inverter

Inverters are devices that convert DC power from a battery or solar panel into AC power that can be used to power household appliances. Here are some tips on how to save electricity when using an inverter:

• Use the right size of inverter: Choosing an inverter that is too big for your needs can result in higher electricity bills. Ensure that you choose an inverter that is the right size for your requirements.
• Switch off when not in use: Switch off your inverter when not in use to reduce energy consumption.
• Charge your battery during off-peak hours: Charge your battery during off-peak hours when electricity tariffs are lower. This will help reduce your electricity bills.
• Use energy-efficient appliances: Use energy-efficient appliances that consume less electricity. This will help reduce the load on your inverter, resulting in lower electricity consumption.
• Optimize battery usage: Optimize the use of your battery to extend its lifespan and reduce the need for frequent replacements. Charge your battery only up to its recommended capacity, and avoid discharging it completely.
• Proper maintenance: Proper maintenance of your inverter ensures that it operates efficiently and consumes less electricity. Clean your inverter regularly, ensure that the connections are tight, and the battery is in good condition.
• Use renewable energy sources: If possible, use renewable energy sources such as solar panels to charge your battery. This will help reduce your reliance on grid electricity and lower your electricity bills.

Household appliances are an integral part of our daily lives, and it's essential to use them efficiently to save electricity, money, and the planet. By following the tips mentioned above, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption and contribute to environmental sustainability. Additionally, consider investing in energy-efficient appliances as they can significantly reduce your energy bills in the long run. Let's all do our part in creating a sustainable future for ourselves and the generations to come.

Back to top of page