How to Use Less Energy

Lighting:

One of the most simple and cost efficient ways to save energy is in using Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFL’s). These lights can produce the same amount of light as a standard incandescent bulb using a fraction of the energy. CFL’s last much longer than incandescent and are available for many different applications. While these bulbs cost more than a standard incandescent, the energy savings that you realize pays you back very quickly.

Light Emitting Diodes (LED’s) are also incredibly efficient ways to provide light and have an unbelievable life. This technology can still be expensive, but we will soon see this become more main-stream as prices come down and technology advances.

Appliances:

The right appliances can make world of difference in your utility bills. Fridges, Clothes Dryers, Ovens and Range Tops are all things we use often that demand the most electricity in a typical home. IWS recommends integrating Energy Star qualified appliances whenever possible. Do keep in mind that not all Energy Star qualified appliances are created equal. Some have incredible efficiency and others are borderline efficient. Be assured that you can still get great products by most major brand names and still conserve energy.

Phantom Loads:

Sounds scary, and it can be. Phantom loads consume energy even when you turn appliances off. These can include but are not limited to:

TV
Cable or Satellite Dish box
Any appliance with a clock (Microwave, Oven, Stove, Refrigerator)
Computer
Chargers for phones and other electronics (Even when electronics are not attached)
Printers, Fax Machines and other office items with a display

Some easy ways to mitigate your phantom loads include using power strips you can turn off. This stops phantom loads from drawing power. Another way is wiring your electrical jacks with a switch that you can turn off eliminating phantom loads. You can also install motion detectors that will turn the lights off when the room is not being used.

Some phantom loads can be considered useful. Your cable or satellite dish box needs that constant draw to keep its memory so you don’t have to reset all the options every time you turn it on. If you are aware of these things, you can pick which ones you know you want constant power too while mitigating the effects of phantom loads by unplugging unnecessary items.

New Construction:

If you are building, or plan to build in the future, keep in mind that a few ideas in the construction of your home or business can go a long ways in keeping your utility bills in check. Consult with your builder and give us a call. IWS is always willing to help people find ways to conserve energy and save money.