Earth Day might be over but the earth needs time and we have to pour in lot of efforts to bring things back on track. Here is our small effort to contribute a bit on earth and its improvement.
Turn it off
Ensure judicious and if possible, minimum usage of devices and appliances that form a large percentage of your energy consumption, including air conditioner, computers and printers. Create a conducive environment by allowing natural light to enter the room. Keep the doors and vents of unused rooms closed. Open the windows regularly to allow cross-ventilation.
Insulate & do it yourself
This would facilitate lowering of energy usage by up to 30 per cent. Insulation makes best use of sunlight. Some do-it-yourself (DIY) steps include plastic cover or a draft stopper which restricts cold air. Installing overhangs and retractable awnings blocks sunlight from enters the house, thereby facilitating energy conservation. High-performance windows, screens and films help saving energy while also protecting the furnishings from the ultraviolet or UV rays.
It’s time to change
Incorporating energy efficient appliances and fixtures could help you save significantly on your electricity bill. If you are tight on budget, start incorporating one by one. Begin with LED bulbs, then move on to bigger appliances. These appliances are known to reduce energy use by up to 75 per cent.
Proof the roof
Roofing with reflective coating will minimise the amount of heat entering the house and will decrease the strain on the air-conditioner.
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Dry them out!
Make your own DIY clothing line at home for air-drying the clothes. This makes for a practical way of saving energy by ensuring minimum usage of a washing machine’s dryer.
Cover & cook
Closing the lid of pans and pots is known to cook quicker as it prevents heat to escape. This will help save energy, as less of fuel will be used if using a gas stove and electricity in case of an induction.
Cold water only
Did you know the water heater in your HOME is one the appliances that consume heavy electricity? Try to consume cold water in activities like laundry, cleaning utensils, cars, or even floors. Thus, cutting down the heavy usage of water heater, and in turn lower electricity bills.
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The celebration for Earth Day may last for a day but the sentiments and values it reflects stays on forever and should be imbibed in our lifestyle. Making small, mindful changes in our daily routine can significantly reduce our environmental impact. Whether it’s conserving energy, reducing waste, or making eco-friendly choices, every step counts.
How to contribute?
Every drop makes an ocean and thus every small step towards conscious living contributes to a big success in a grand scheme of things. Here are some practical ways to create a greener, more sustainable home.
1. Turn Off & Save Energy
Eco-Conscious Residences in Urban India are the need of the hour. Reducing unnecessary energy consumption is one of the simplest ways to contribute to a greener planet. Many appliances continue to use power even when not in active use, leading to unnecessary wastage. By making small adjustments, you can significantly lower your carbon footprint.
- Switch off appliances like air conditioners, computers, and printers when not in use.
- Maximize natural light by opening curtains and windows during the day.
- Close doors and vents in unused rooms to maintain indoor temperature and reduce strain on heating or cooling systems.
2. Insulate & DIY for Energy Efficiency
A well-insulated home retains heat in winter and keeps cool in summer, reducing the need for excessive heating and air conditioning. Simple do-it-yourself (DIY) solutions can enhance insulation and contribute to energy savings.
- Use draft stoppers or plastic covers to prevent cold air from entering the home.
- Install overhangs, retractable awnings, or high-performance window films to block excessive sunlight.
- Seal gaps around windows and doors to maintain indoor temperature efficiently.
3. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Modern energy-efficient appliances consume significantly less power, making them a long-term investment in sustainability. While upgrading all at once may not be feasible, small steps can make a difference.
- Start with LED bulbs, which use up to 75% less energy than traditional bulbs.
- Gradually replace old appliances with energy-efficient models certified by programs like ENERGY STAR.
- Consider switching to smart appliances that automatically adjust energy consumption based on usage.
4. Reflective Roofing for a Cooler Home
Roofing materials and coatings play a crucial role in maintaining indoor temperatures. Using reflective or light-colored materials can help keep your home naturally cooler.
- Apply a reflective roof coating to reduce heat absorption.
- Choose roofing materials with high solar reflectance to minimize heat gain.
- This reduces reliance on air conditioning and lowers overall energy consumption.
5. Air Dry Clothes Instead of Using a Dryer
Clothes dryers consume a large amount of electricity, making air-drying a more eco-friendly alternative. Not only does it save energy, but it also helps extend the lifespan of your clothes.
- Set up a DIY clothing line or drying rack to let clothes dry naturally.
- Use indoor drying racks during colder months to continue saving energy.
- Air-drying reduces wear and tear on fabrics, keeping them in good condition for longer.
6. Cover While Cooking
Cooking efficiently can also help in reducing energy consumption. Using simple techniques, such as covering pots and pans, can speed up the cooking process and minimize energy wastage.
- Cover pots and pans while cooking to trap heat and cook food faster.
- Use pressure cookers or induction stoves to reduce cooking time and energy usage.
- Opt for energy-efficient kitchen appliances that consume less power.
7. Use Cold Water for Daily Tasks
Water heating accounts for a large portion of household energy usage. By switching to cold water for specific tasks, you can cut down on energy consumption significantly.
- Wash clothes in cold water instead of hot water to save electricity.
- Use cold water for cleaning dishes, cars, and household chores.
- Reduce reliance on water heaters by taking shorter showers with lukewarm or cold water.
Small Steps, Big Impact
Sustainable living doesn’t require drastic changes, simple, consistent efforts can make a meaningful difference. By making eco-conscious choices at home, we not only conserve resources but also contribute to a healthier environment for future generations. Start today and take a step towards a greener future.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is it important to save energy at home?
Saving energy at home reduces electricity bills, minimizes carbon footprint, and helps conserve natural resources. Small changes like switching off unused appliances and using energy-efficient devices can make a big difference.
2. How can I make my home more eco-friendly?
You can make your home more eco-friendly by using LED bulbs, air-drying clothes, insulating windows, reducing water heater usage, and incorporating energy-efficient appliances.
3. What are some easy ways to reduce electricity consumption?
Simple steps like turning off lights and electronics when not in use, using natural light, installing energy-efficient appliances, and insulating your home can help reduce electricity consumption.
