Saving energy around your home. - PlaceMakers

Hot Weather Energy SaversDeflect daytime sun with awnings on windows or drawdrapes and pull shades on sunny windows. Use anextractor ventilating fan instead of air conditioning.They do a remarkably good job in keeping air circulating.A 130m 2 attic should have at least .5m 2 of ventilation.Combine circulating fans with room air-conditionersfor best air distribution throughout the house.Year Round Energy SaversUse fluorescent lights where possible. A 25 wattfluorescent tube will provide light equal to a 100 watt bulb.Replace leaky taps; repair all water-wasting fixtures.A dripping hot water tap makes a hot water heaterkeep working.Close off unused rooms.Kitchen, Laundry and BathroomInsulate the hot water cylinder and piping with insulatingmaterials e.g. Climaflex.Have hot-water-using appliances such as clothes anddishwashers full, but not overloaded; same for clothesdryers (use drying racks or clothes lines if possible butalways outside).Use warm or cold water (rather than hot)whenever possible.Keep the thermostat on your hot water cylinder at thelowest setting possible to maintain comfortable watertemperature.Try to use high-energy appliances - washer, dryer,electric ovens -in non-peak periods (early morning orlate evening).Try energy efficient cooking:• Use flat bottom pans and pots.• Regularly clean the burner reflectors.• Use a pressure cooker.• Cook several foods in the oven at same time.• Use small appliances for small cooking jobs.• Use a microwave wherever possible.6