With the continuous drop in the power situation in Nigeria and the rising cost of fuel, we’re fortunate to be living in an era dominated by technology and innovation. Just as Smartphones, transportation efficiencies, and many technologies have made our lives better, making it easier for all of us to live more efficiently. Solar technology also gives us a life of freedom and independence from the unreliable power supply by helping us tap God’s given energy from the sun to power our homes and offices.
But when using Solar technology, it is a reasonable practice to understand how to manage power supply by cutting unnecessary load from your power consumption. Below are five ways you can reduce your energy usage.
1. Use Compact Fluorescent Bulbs (CFLs)
If you have the older type of light bulbs in your home, you may find that you are using much more energy than you have to. This is why so many people are switching to fluorescent bulbs popularly called energy-saving bulbs. They may be a bit more expensive, but you end up saving money over time.
2. Look for Energy Efficient Appliances
If you are shopping for new appliances to help make your home more energy-efficient, look for appliances that have the HE logo. Energy-star certified appliances use less energy, and while they may cost you a bit more in the beginning, it is much more of an investment for you. This is because it will save you money over time when it comes to running your appliances.
3. Switch off Gadgets when not in use
An idle printer, desktop computer, microwave ovens, and coffee makers equipped with LED clocks running all night when not in use consume power. Switch them off when you don’t need them immediately. Even try to switch off your refrigerator when you are planning to go away from home for a long time.
These small savings will eventually turn to big savings once you calculate the amount of energy saved by the end of the year. Also, unplug battery chargers when they aren’t in use. Chargers for cell phones, laptops, and other wireless devices use lots of energy even when they aren’t charging their devices.
4. Always purchase electrical appliances with higher energy star ratings.
Appliances with higher energy star ratings usually use less energy. When next you’re purchasing an electrical appliance, check the energy ratings. Also, check if it’s energy-saving and check the power ratings too.
5. Schedule Energy Efficiency Audit
Give a call to energy auditors to check where your home currently stands in terms of energy efficiency. These auditors are equipped with specialized tools and skills that can help them to evaluate the energy efficiency of your home and determine where efficiency can be improved by recommending some low-cost measures. This will help you to figure out which parts of your home need your immediate attention. You can contact us for your energy audit. We also have a basic energy audit tool on our website dandosolar.com. you can get basic ideas about your energy usage with it.