The Electricity Saving Thread

[pup2]

We have the second highest electricity rates in asia. I think it's about time we have a thread on electricity saving that does not rely on various "gadgets". I'll start it out -- feel free to add your own tips that you've found to be effective.

1. For lighting fixtures needing fluorescent lights (yung ayaw o hindi puwedeng natural light or CFL), I've found that using good reflectors and PS or ICC-marked elecntronic ballasts can save a bundle. I've also gotten away with diffusers in areas not necessitating 'beautifying'.

2. Don't be stingy on the AC cleaning. True, cleaning the filter often suffices. But outside, often dusty polluted air is able to go inside your AC unit through the back. Only a professional cleaning job will do in this case. Also, avoid damaging the cooling fins.

3. Turn off lights when leaving a room. When practical, turn off the AC also -- or at least raise the thermostat when you go out for a short time.

4. Unplug electronics from the source when not in use for a moderate amount of time. If not, use an ICC or PS-marked surge protector at an easily reached location and turn THAT off when not in use -- just don't overload. True, most electronics use only a watt or so when in standby mode. But left on for half a day, that 1 watt increases to: 1 x 12 hours x 30 days x number of devices for 1 whole month!

5. Don't be too stingy on replacing appliances. We often repair appliances to death in this country! But replacing them sometimes can give us better, more energy-efficient ones -- just check the energy-efficiency tags that are attached to them.

6. Make sure the fridges and freezers are defrosted regularly and that the doors are properly closed (and stocked) all the time! The doors should require a slight tug when opening -- or it may be time to call the repair man/appliance center.

Sana madagdagan pa ninyo. Peace!