Issue No. 21
25 November 2014
Energy-efficient alternatives
S
aving energy also means saving money, but it does not stop there. It also means reducing the high demand for fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas. If these fossil fuels will be burnt less, less carbon dioxides and other pollutants will be emitted. Nowadays, consumers are fortunate to have options in choosing or changing their energy-use innovatively. The market now offers various energy-efficient alternatives for some appliances and light fixtures. Here are some suggestions for making use of energyefficient practices: •
Reduce, reuse, recycle. For every pound of waste that is recycled, at least one pound of energy is saved and carbon dioxide emission lessened. Also, choose to buy and use reusable products over disposable ones. Recycling also helps in cutting garbage by half of one large trash bag per week. It may not be a lot but if done habitually, it would reduce emission of 1,100 pounds of carbon dioxide per year.
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Turn the temperature of your refrigerator down. A refrigerator holds almost 20% of energy-use. If it is possible, turn the temperature to 37 degrees and three degrees for the freezer. Also, check the linings of your ref door to make sure that they are sealed tightly.
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Maximize the use of the washing machine. If possible, wash only with full loads. Use optimal quantity of water and adequate amount of detergent.
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Maintain the lighting fixtures’ cleanliness. Clean lighting fixtures have better illumination which also means lesser electrical consumption.
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When buying new set of appliances, choose energy-efficient model. Look for energy star labels for it gives assurance that the product saves energy and prevents pollution. Also, buy appliances with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER). The higher the EER, the lesser electricity consumed. Likewise, buy appliances that have Philippine Standard (PS) or Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) mark issued by the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) to ensure the products’ optimal performance and safety.
Source: • http://www.ecomall.com/greenshopping/20things.htm • http://www.mercindia.org.in/pdf/ TIPS_ON_ENERGY_SAVING.pdfalternatives/
Published by the Knowledge Management and Information Service (KMIS) for the DTI ENERCON Management Team in support of the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program. If you have Enercon tips to share, other suggestions or requested topics, please e-mail us at publications@dti.gov.ph.