1. Machines are better at this than you:
In most areas of electrical goods the new models are more than capable of self-regulating. So don’t be scared turn on your TV’s power management options, and start to select any of the energy saving options your other appliances have.
2. Clean is clean
I know this one will sound a bit counter-intuitive but, try washing your clothes in a cool wash and with the advancements in detergents your clothes are still going to come out just as clean. Oh and your colours are far less likely to run.
3. Invest in a power monitor:
Well I say invest but they’re actually relatively cheap and are a great way to keep track of how much energy you use at home and also what products are using the most energy. Believe me when start to add it up all of a sudden that 50” plasma you have on the wall isn’t such a good idea.
4. Start using power strips for your appliances:
This ties in well with the tip above a power strip is a multi-plug adapter but the new ones tend to have switches on them so you can turn all appliances plugged into it off with one switch.
5. Don’t charge your gadgets longer than necessary:
If your home is anything like mine it will have a ton of chargers throughout and most of them will be plugged in and charging the relevant device. But are you keeping track of when that device is charged or do you just leave it on overnight or all day. Not only will this cost you more money but it will also affect the battery life of your gadget. Its best to drain the battery completely before recharging.
6. And then there was light:
If you’re still using old school incandescent light bulbs STOP! You can get relatively cheap LED bulbs now that are cheap to buy and consume far less energy.
7. Turn all appliances off at the switch:
If something’s not in use make sure you turn it off at the switch or unplug it because if you don’t it will still drain power thus costing you more money. So, that means no more standby mode etc.
Hopefully these tips will help you save some money over the winter with too much sacrifice, and if you still find things are a bit cold – I find mulled wine is great for heating you up.
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