Tips To Cut Electricity Consumption

Did you know that you can cut down on the amount of electricity you use instantly and quickly just by changing your old lifestyle habits? Particularly those related to the use of appliances, audiovisual equipment, and lighting. Ask a Melbourne electrician based at Precision Electrical and Plumbing about the best way to do this, and you’ll probably be surprised just how much you can save.

The first step is to learn the basics about your electricity usage and where the electricity is going. Then find out just what you can do to manage the power demands of your own home sensibly. Generally, you will save by using the smallest appliance for any job. Still, you also need to keep a meticulous eye on the power-hungry devices that must be run for an extended period – particularly air conditioning units and heaters.

Top Ten Tips To Cut Electricity Consumption

1. Hot water cylinders can gobble up the electricity. If you have a 200-litre unit, it could account for as much as half the electricity used by an average family of four. Set the unit’s thermostat at a level that will allow the water to reach its maximum setting quickly: no more than 60 °C, depending on how many people use it.
2. If your water heating unit has a time switch, set it to switch on and off at specified times that coincide with when hot water will be required. If it doesn’t have a time switch, Precision Electrical and Plumbing can install one on the distribution board for you.
3. Ovens and stoves use up a lot of electricity. Microwave ovens and electric frying pans can help to cut down this bill. If you are cooking on the stovetop, to save energy, always cover your pots to keep the heat inside – though you may not want to do this if you are simmering liquid to thicken it.
4. When boiling the kettle, never fill it up to the top unless you are making tea or coffee for many people. Only boil as much water as you need.
5. Check hot water taps regularly. If they leak, the problem may be as simple as a washer. But don’t leave it because a leaking tap not only wastes water; if it’s a hot tap, it will waste electricity as well. Give Precision Electrical and Plumbing a call if you can’t fix the problem yourself.
6. Even though light bulbs don’t generally use much electricity, always switch lights off when not in use. LED lamps and bulbs are best because they are more energy-efficient, even though they are more expensive.
7. Dishwashers were designed to save both water and energy, but if you run yours while it is half empty, you’ll waste both. Also, be sure to pack it sensibly; it will not be efficient if you shove too much into the dishwasher.
8. The refrigerator is the other appliance you must take care of, not to overload. The more food you store in it, the harder it will have to work to keep everything cold. Don’t store unopened jars in the fridge, and let hot food cool thoroughly before transferring it to the refrigerator. When you pack the fridge, spread it out evenly in both the freezer and refrigerator sections. Defrost the refrigerator regularly and replace seals if and when they deteriorate.
9. Set your washing machine to an economical, cool-water cycle.
10. In winter, keep the doors of heated rooms closed so that the heat generated does not escape.

If your appliances give problems, have them serviced or replace them. If the problem is related either to your electrics or plumbing, Precision Electrical and Plumbing professionals can help you by sending out a qualified Melbourne electrician. We also have a 24-hour emergency service if you have unexpected problems.