Issue No. 21
Nov. 13, 2013
Energy-saving tips for the holidays
E
nergy use is higher during the holiday season due to various activities at home. But, it is not an excuse not to find ways to save more energy. Enjoy the holidays with family and friends without spending more energy and money, too. Here are some energy-saving tips:
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Unplug light displays during daytime. Contrary to popular belief, it is more energy-efficient to turn off any kind of light bulb than to leave it on all day. Regardless of the kind of light you are using, it takes more energy to keep lights burning than to turn them on and off. It is better to turn it off during the day because it only has little visual impact.
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Reduce lighting displays. Consumers usually think that it is nicer to spend money on bigger and sparkly Christmas decorations but one should remember that more lights mean more consumed electricity. Choose if you will spend on light displays, stick with just the Christmas tree and ornaments, or display inflatable Santa. Sometimes, it is all about your creativity.
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Use LED Christmas lights. It will be a smart choice because light emitting diodes (LED) Christmas lights use almost 90% less electricity than incandescent ones. LED lights do not heat up. They can even last for years and their brightness do not fade over time.
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Weigh your ventilation options. During the cold months, use electric fans to save more electricity or you can also set your air conditoners to automatic timer. Familiarize yourself with the settings of your air condition units.
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Have a Christmas shopping schedule. Plan your Christmas shopping ahead of time. Feeling the Christmas spirit when in rush is not enough reason to do your last-minute shopping. Spare yourself from hassle and stress. You can also save money on gasoline if you schedule your Christmas shopping.
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Cook efficiently. People cook more during the holidays so it consumes electricity especially if electric ovens are used. Become more efficient by preparing the same items together. Defrost food before cooking to reduce cooking time. Use glass and ceramic pans to reduce cooking temperature by 25°F with no extra time required.
Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/12/16/eco-friendlychristmas-tips-ideas_n_2288199.html
Published by the Trade and Industry Information Center (TIIC) 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.