By Len Jorge

When we talk about reducing energy waste, we always think that it should be big and costly projects and changes. The truth is you shouldn’t have to think big, there are so many smart solutions for home energy conservation that are budget-friendly. The best simple ideas that you can apply in your daily routine not only help you reduce your energy bills but also help the environment.

We are all responsible for the energy we use in our homes. Here are some quick and easy smart solutions to help you reduce your energy consumption.

Know your appliances!

Using the energy-saving mode on television can reduce your energy consumption by 27% up to 67%. When you choose an energy-saving mode, it will automatically adjust your television to energy-saving settings. Another smart solution is to pick a television based on the needs and size of the room. Of course, the bigger the television, the higher the energy consumption.

Take advantage of the inverter technology when buying appliances such as air conditioners, washing machines, and refrigerators. Although buying inverter appliances may be a bit more costly than non-inverters, it would save you more eventually.

You can save up to 64% of consumption if you use an inverter AC. Also, maintain a proper temperature depending on the size of the room and the type of equipment and/or appliances in the area.

Do not leave windows and doors open when the AC is switched on. This will give your air conditioner less work to do, which will lower your energy bills.

You can save up to 50% of energy if you use an inverter refrigerator. Keep an eye on the door seal. The seals around your refrigerator’s door serve as a protection and barrier between the cool air inside and the warm air outside. Any break in this seal will mean warm air gets into the refrigerator, so it’ll have to work harder to maintain the set temperature.

Monitor the actual temperature inside your refrigerator. Your refrigerator might be slightly warmer or slightly cooler than the temperature set. The ideal temperature is somewhere between 2.2C and 3.3C.

Organize your food. In this way, you will spend less time going through what you’re looking for. The less time you spend the door open, the less the condenser will work to get the temperature back to the set level.

When using the washing machine, wash full loads when possible. Your washing machine will use the same amount of energy no matter the size of the clothes load, so fill it up if you can. Clean the lint filter after each washing/drying cycle. Remember to scrub the filter once a month with a toothbrush to remove excess buildup.

Wash clothes on the shortest cycle that’s practical for your needs. A shorter spin cycle helps save water and energy. Added benefit – this cycle causes less damage to your clothes over time so helps them last longer. Soak heavily soiled items before washing, and rub collars or other stains with detergent soap. There’s nothing worse than having to repeat a wash because stains didn’t come out.

And lastly, research before you buy. Look for energy-efficient appliances that fit your needs. Ask experts on what brands are energy efficient. And lastly, read the manual to know more about the functions and features that will help you save energy. By knowing your appliances, it will not only help the environment but also your energy bill.

Still, having doubts? Give it a try. Let your energy bill speak for itself.

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