National Energy Conservation Day: Tips to conserve energy at home

Every year the National Energy Conservation Day is celebrated on December 14 to create awareness about the significance of energy conservation and also to promote sustainable energy practices. The day reminds us that nature has limited resources and hence the best thing to do is to reduce the consumption of energy and protect the environment.

Always turn off switches when not in use

Make it a habit to switch off the button of a light or electronic/electrical equipment or product when you are not using it. Ensure that your video game consoles, computer, television, digital video recorders, or cable boxes are completely switched off when you are not using them or retiring for the day. If possible keep them unplugged in case you are going away for a few days.

Very few people are aware that chargers of small devices like cell phone chargers, tablets, and cordless devices keep on using energy even when they are not charging. It is better to turn off the button to save energy. Computers also use energy even when they are in hibernate or sleep mode. Although they use very little energy when not active if you are not going to be active on the computer for a couple of hours it is better to shut it down.

Similarly, modern computers do not need screen savers. So skipping them and making the desktop directly accessible is another way of conserving energy.

Avoid using more energy than needed

Undoubtedly, kitchen appliances and machines like dishwashers and washing machines save a lot of effort and time. However, they also consume a lot of energy, both electricity and water. So, unless very urgent avoid running a dishwasher or washing machine unless it is fully loaded.

Similarly, ensure that you empty the refrigerator and turn it off before going on a long vacation. It will certainly save a lot of energy.