Socializing
and engaging in our favourite activities every other weekend was once
a part of our lifestyle. However, the post-pandemic scenario is a lot
different now. Almost all of the families are spending their entire
day at home, including kids, as opposed to when they only chose to
relax at home post school or work. COVID-19
has changed how we lead our lives and has instilled the importance of
energy conservation as the electricity bills run high.
Being
at home all day has spiked the energy usage of all households and
almost 20% of it constitutes water heating, lighting, refrigeration,
and other energy-consuming appliances. Therein arises the need to
manage energy efficiently and cut back on your utility bills.
Here
are a few tips to put into practice to enjoy cost savings! There are
5 places where you can cut down on your energy consumption or use
energy wisely and they are:
#1.
Household
- Save energy by using ceiling or portable fans
- Use ENERGY STAR certified LED bulbs and tube lights which consume 70-90% less energy than your standard bulbs
- Service your air-conditioner frequently and replace or clean the filters every month
- Turn off all the lights, fans, and electronics when you leave the room
#2.
Living
Room
- When the TV sets and stereos are not in use, turn off its power supply
- Turn on the energy-saving feature on all of your electronic devices when in use
- Lower the brightness levels on all the TV and laptop screens
#3.
Bathroom
- Use lukewarm water for your shower and keep it short
- Depending on the water heater, turn it on 15 minutes to 1 hour before or as suggested in the manual for maximum energy savings
- Turn off the exhaust fan 15 minutes after your shower
#4.
Laundry
- Use cold water to wash your clothes
- Use the auto dry option to dry your clothes
- Clean the lint trap between loads to increase air circulation and dryer efficiency
- Air dry your clothes in the dry balcony
#5.
Kitchen
- Maximize cooling and efficiency by keep the top of your refrigerator and the coils clean
- Cover foods and liquids stored in the refrigerator as uncovered foods release moisture and reduce the compressor efficiency
- Use small appliances like a toaster, electric pressure cooker, microwave oven, or a convection oven for small meals rather than using a large stove or oven
- If using a dishwasher, run it only on a full load or rather let your dishes air dry'
These
tips will help you lower your carbon footprint and also cut down your
energy costs. While we’re all doing our best to overcome these
trying times, there are some real estate developers like Pharande
Spaces that are IGBC certified and are complying with sustainable
technology norms and providing up to 20 to 30% in energy savings and
30 to 50% in water savings. So, while you stay safe and healthy at
home, and are on the lookout for flats
in Pune,
you can visit Pharande Spaces’ website and explore their flats in Ravet
and other premium neighborhoods of the city.
