How to Save Electricity by Correct Use of Electrical Appliances

Energy efficient appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers and freezers will work even more efficiently with some of these energy saving tips.

The world's financial crisis aside, the issue of global warming is one that needs to be taken seriously. Proper use of electrical appliances can be kind to the environment and put some money back into one's pocket.

Energy Saving Tips for Dishwashers

• Energy consumption can be reduced by turning off the dishwasher before the drying cycle. Clean dishes can be left to dry or wiped dry.
• Make sure the dishwasher is not partially loaded, but filled properly.
• Short wash cycles, rinse-only cycles mid-cycle turn off and other features are designed by washing machine manufacturers for energy conservation; make use of them to cut down on electricity.
• Use a cold wash unless it's absolutely necessary to use hot.
• Keep dishwasher filters clear of debris. A blocked filter reduces efficiency and wastes energy.

Energy Saving Tips for Refrigerators

• Choose a refrigerator based on the needs of one's family. Refrigerators work best when filled, so having a giant fridge for two people is obviously not energy-efficient.
• Do not set freezing temperatures lower than necessary – that wastes as much electricity as excessive heat.
• Opening and closing the refrigerator door needlessly lets warm air in and makes the refrigerator work harder. Try to remove several items at once.
• Allow enough space around the refrigerator for air circulation. The air carries heat away from the fridge. If air cannot circulate, the fridge will not work efficiently.
• Switch on the energy saving switch if there is one fitted to the refrigerator.
• Empty out, clean and switch off the refrigerator when away on vacation.
• Make sure the seal around the refrigerator is intact.
• Do not place the refrigerator near the stove or against a wall that faces the sun.
• Thick frost on chilling panels affects the cooling ability. If the refrigerator is not a frost-free model, defrost the refrigerator regularly to save energy.
• Keep condenser coils / panels that are usually found at the back of the fridge clean and dust-free.

Energy Saving Tips for Freezers

• Defrosting of chest freezers should be done once or twice a year, upright models two to three times a year. Do not allow frost to exceed 0.6 to 1.3 cm.
• Freezers and refrigerators operate most efficiently when filled to the capacity recommended by the manufacturer.
• Freezers will have to work harder if more than one tenth of the capacity is used to freeze fresh food at any given time.
• Keep the freezer open for a minimum of time, avoid opening and closing to save energy.
• Keep condenser panels at the back of the freezer clean and dust-free for maximum energy efficiency and conservation.

An effort should be made by every person on the planet to reduce the demand for such fuels as coal, oil, gas and electricity. Not only will one save money but help to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and other pollutants responsible for contributing to global warming.