Home appliances can be some of the biggest energy users in your home. Try these quick tips to reduce how much energy your appliances use:
- Use the right tool for the job. Using your oven may not always be necessary. Smaller appliances like crockpots, toaster ovens or microwaves can get the job done for less energy.
- Keep pots and pans covered. Use the smallest pot or pan and match the pan to the element size to waste less energy.
- Thaw food in the fridge instead of the microwave.
- Use energy saving wash cycles.
- Don't pre-rinse dishes. Most modern dishwashers don't require it.
- Wash only full loads. The dishwasher will use the same amount of water if half empty or completely full.
- Wash and rinse your clothes in cold water.
- Dry full loads.
- Clean the lint trap after each load.
- Check the temperature. Fridges should be 4° C (39° F). Freezers should be -18° C (0° F).
- Check seals to see if they are in good repair and doing their job.
- Chest or top-loading freezers are about 25 per cent more efficient than upright freezers.
- Remove or unplug unnecessary refrigerators and freezers. Defrost regularly.
- Use a power bar with an integrated timer to shut off all your devices at the end of the day, or unplug your electronics when you're away from home for an extended period of time. Many electronic devices continue to use power even when they’re turned off.