2024-05-11 21:55:00
With the increase in inflation and electricity prices, a significant increase in electricity bills is expected this year. Learning how to reduce these costs can be as simple as identifying which appliances are contributing the most to your energy consumption.
To do this, you can use a simple formula to determine how many kilowatt-hours (kWh) a device consumes in a month or year, and then look for ways to reduce that consumption. Each appliance has a rating that measures the number of watts of energy it uses. For example, an oven can have a power of 2,000 watts or 2 kilowatts (1 kilowatt is equivalent to 1000 watts).
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By calculating the daily use time of an appliance and multiplying it by its rated power, you will obtain the total energy used in kilowatts/hour (kWh).
With this information, you can determine which devices contribute the most to your energy bill and make changes to save money.
Energy Vampires: Disconnect to Save
Some devices consume power even when turned off, and it is crucial to identify them. These include computers, video game consoles, instant-on televisions, surround sound systems, and cable and satellite TV boxes, as well as any device with a built-in digital clock.
To combat these energy vampires, it is recommended to unplug devices you are not using, use “sneakers” for inactive energy drains, adjust power settings on computers and televisions, and consider using timers to control consumption.
Main Energy Vampires in the Home:
Sound system: These devices consume between 100 and 200 watts when turned on. To reduce their impact on electricity consumption, it is advisable to disconnect them completely when not in use, since even in standby mode they can continue to consume energy.
Fans: Consumption varies considerably between 6 and 40 watts, depending on its size and efficiency. For more efficient use, unplug them when not in use and consider models with a timer that shuts off automatically.
Lights 24/7: They typically consume around 60 watts. It is crucial to turn off lights that are not needed and consider using timers and home automation systems to control their operation only when necessary, which is especially useful in common areas and outdoors.
TV: Televisions can consume from 2 to 54 watts, varying mainly depending on their technology and size. To save energy, unplug TVs that are used infrequently and adjust energy saving settings in the settings menus.
Aquarium: Maintaining an aquarium involves energy consumption between 150 and 200 watts, mainly due to lights and heating systems. To save energy, it is advisable to turn off the lights and heater when they are not needed, especially at night or in warm seasons.
Desktop: These computers can consume between 60 and 300 watts. Completely turning off these devices when not in use can mean big savings. Additionally, using power strips with switches can make it easier to completely turn off multiple devices at once.
Modem: Although consumption is relatively low (5-17 watts), modems are usually on 24/7. Disconnecting them during sleeping hours or when the house is empty can contribute to energy savings.
Cell Phone Chargers: They consume 2 to 6 watts. Although it may not seem like much, leaving them connected continuously adds to the electricity bill. Disconnecting them once the devices are charged is a simple and efficient practice.
Video game console: These devices can consume between 2 and 90 watts. It is advisable to unplug them when they are not in use, as many continue to consume power even in standby mode.
Laptop: The consumption of these can range from 30 to 200 watts. To avoid unnecessary energy costs, it is advisable to unplug the charger from the wall when the computer is not charging.
High Consumption Appliances: It is vital to identify what they are (such as refrigerators, ovens and air conditioners) and use them efficiently. Keeping them in good condition and using them only when necessary can help control your energy consumption.
Some appliances, such as central air conditioning, electric water heater, clothes dryer, hair dryer, electric stove, refrigerator, ceiling fan, incandescent light bulbs, dishwasher, coffee maker, microwave, and laser printer, consume significant amounts of energy. It is recommended to unplug them when not in use or use them more efficiently to reduce costs.
Choosing more efficient appliances when replacing them can also have a long-term positive impact on energy bills.
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