7 Ways to Economically Use Household Appliances

Electricity rates are high, so many people are interested in ways to save electricity. Let's look at a few ideas on how to use appliances economically. These recommendations will help appliance users greatly reduce electricity bills and save a solid amount of money in the long run.

Use a laptop computer instead of a desktop computer

A desktop PC is plugged into the power grid 100% of the time it is in use. So a computer consumes 60 to 200 watts depending on its power. Laptops, on the other hand, are able to run on their own battery for long periods of time. In addition, laptops are equipped with more energy efficient processors. So the average notebook consumes up to 50 watts.

When the laptop battery is fully charged, do not forget to unplug the device from the mains. This will help conserve battery capacity and reduce power consumption.

Unplug extension cords before you leave

A phantom load is the electricity consumed by an electrical appliance when it is turned off. That is, even a turned off TV, a game console, or a regular kettle will consume electricity. And if in the case of the kettle the amount will be quite small, it is better to unplug the TV.

On average, when turned off, appliances can consume up to 15% of electricity. That is why it is not economical to leave appliances plugged in 100% of the time.

Buy thrifty appliances

Almost all large appliances are equipped with energy efficiency classes. In general, they are designated by letters of the Latin alphabet: from G to A++. Energy-efficient appliances have the designation A++. The price for it may be higher, but in the long run, such a purchase will help save a large sum of money. Especially when it comes to large appliances like a refrigerator or washing machine that you use often.

It's best to buy appliances with an energy efficiency class of A, A+, and A++. When it comes to washing machines, a high energy efficiency class will save up to 50% on the amount of electricity for this type of appliance.

Charge your phone in air mode

With today's smartphones, communication is one of the biggest factors in power consumption. Considering the fact that most people charge their phones at night, it makes sense to turn on air mode. This way, charging your device will be much faster since the charge will not be wasted on GPS, 4g, and cellular communications.

It's also a good idea to turn on the display's minimum brightness in the evening. This is another way to save your device's charge.

Use your water heater correctly

If you need a water heater for heating water for a large family, you should learn how to use this appliance properly. In the wrong hands, it consumes a huge amount of electricity. At the same time, you can save electricity with the boiler in several ways:

1. Regulate the temperature of the water heating. Of course in the winter one wants to take a shower or bath with a water temperature of 44-46 degrees. But in the summertime this level of heating is no longer needed. You can reduce the figure to 39-40 degrees. This will help save on electricity consumption without reducing comfort.
2. Turn off the water heater when you don't need hot water. For example, if you go away from home for a long time or go on vacation.
3. Ensure that the water heater is properly cared for. Over time, the device loses its efficiency and begins to use more energy to heat the same volume of water. Therefore, regularly remove limescale and other deposits inside the appliance so that it serves longer and more efficiently.

Proper use of the hob

You don't have to finish a meal when you're using the hob. Turn off the appliance when the food is almost cooked. Italians call this state «al dente.« Next, leave the cookware on the burner. The residual heat will allow the food to reach the desired cooking level.

Choose the optimal electric kettle

If 1 or 2 people live in the apartment, it is not necessary to buy large kettles for 2 liters. You can buy a model with a minimum capacity, enough for two cups of tea or coffee.

The above recommendations quite quickly cease to cause discomfort and become the rules in everyday life, which allow you to significantly reduce the payment for electricity. Remember that this way you not only pay less, but also improve the ecology of our planet.