Energy conservation and efficiency are distinct concepts. Energy efficiency refers to the use of less energy to provide a given energy service. For example, LED light bulbs use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs to provide the same service.
In contrast, energy conservation means using less energy by using fewer energy services. For example, turning off unused lights is a way to conserve energy. However, people typically use conservation and efficiency synonymously. With that layperson usage in mind, here’s a guide to energy conservation (and efficiency).
Energy Audit
An energy audit doesn’t directly conserve electricity. It’s an in-depth and systematic examination of your home’s energy consumption. These audits help you identify inefficient uses of energy, such as some appliance being left on when not being used, like a television. Once you know how you’re wasting energy, it becomes significantly easier to conserve it.
Thermostats
Decreasing your thermostat setting by 15 degrees for 8 hours a day can significantly reduce your utility bill. In general, whenever your home is empty for an extended period, you should lower your thermostat setting. Consequently, the ideal time to do this would be when you leave for work, especially if your work schedule coincides with other peoples’ plans. To make this easier, purchase a programmable thermostat. You can program it to lower its setting at certain times.
Lighting
One effortless way to conserve energy is to turn off the lights. In the daytime, you don’t need to turn the lights on unless you have no windows in a particular room. Moreover, you can leave the lights off for most of the day until late evening. After the sun sets, you should only turn on the lights you need. If you’re the last person leaving a room, make sure you turn the lights off. If you’re leaving a room and don’t plan to return for around two hours, you should also close your fluorescent lighting.
Another energy-saving method is to incorporate LED lighting into your home. As mentioned before, LED light bulbs use significantly less energy than incandescent bulbs. LED bulbs also last much longer than and emit less heat than incandescent and fluorescent lighting. Consequently, they’re a safe investment in more ways than one.
If you want to conserve as much energy as possible, get in touch with us at RHK Electrical. We offer residential electrical services, LED lighting solutions, lighting maintenance, and much more in Cypress, TX. Our home electricians can assess your home’s electrical infrastructure and identify ways to conserve energy or make it more efficient. Get in touch for the best electricians in Cypress, TX.