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Thermodynamics in a nutshell is simply the study of the flow and effects of heat, work and energy within a defined system. To simplify the discussion, considering an electric appliance as a system, we could easily identify the critical factors that may influence the flow of heat, work and
energy into and out of that electric appliance. An electric appliance may have several functions which consumes electrical energy for its operation. That function could be to either generate heat or maintain a certain temperature condition in a closed environment. What triggers the flow of heat is the existence of a temperature gradient until the thermostat setting has been met. Any action that causes a temperature gradient requires electrical energy to bring it back to its desired state. Here are ways to save energy at home.
1) Minimize heat transfer or heat dissipation: At home, an example of an electric appliance that is temperature controlled is the refrigerator. If you frequently open the door of the refrigerator, the temperature inside changes as some hot air goes inside or whatever you put causes a temperature gradient. So, refrain from opening the door unless otherwise needed. Also, activate the "auto defrost" mode or setting so that the compressor would have the time to stop working. Just make sure that you regularly check the water bin if it needs emptying to prevent water overflow that may damage you refrigerator. Also, you need to check and observe your refrigerator from time to time if it is properly closed or not.
2) Use of the appropriate wattage when buying an electric appliance that produces mechanical work: Like the washing machine at home where it produces mechanical work to perform its tasks, one easy way to save energy is by using it properly. As much as possible, use it for heavy clothes as opposed to lighter ones. If you could handwash the lighter ones, the better. The main point is to allocate the use electricity to tasks where and when most needed. But in times when it is inevitable, it is under anyone’s prerogative when and what to use. You just make sure that it’s within your budget or much better if you have planned it out. Meaning, at certain times within a month, you can allow excessive use of electricity when inevitable and most of the times need to balance with energy-savings measures to ensure an affordable monthly electricity usage.
3) Completely disconnect the electric appliance from energy source if not critically needed: Electric appliances on standby mode still consumes energy even in small amount. If not needed to put the electric appliance in standby mode, better to turn it off. For this idea to be conveniently done, one suggestion is the use of dedicated outlets with built-in switches and fuses for ease in controlling the power that goes to your appliances. This strategy will also eliminate the step in either turning on or off of the switches of your appliances. Typically, as a result of frequent turning on or off of the switches of your appliances may result to power failure which means cost. But with portable outlets, it could be cheaply replaced.
4) Ensure electric appliances are functioning properly: Some electric appliances due to wear-and-tear or extensive usage are degrading through time. Like for example, an electric fan may not be performing well due to mechanical problems and as a result you tend to set it to higher speeds to get optimum results. Definitely, the electric consumption even further increased. So, to prevent this from happening, it is advisable that you perform regular maintenance to check on your electric appliances if need some minor fixes. This regular maintenance may provide you early warning signs and prevent major damage to your appliances. This regular check is highly advisable on appliances which are expensive and have warranties. The early to detect an appliance minor problem, the better considering that warranties have due dates.
Whether you can afford the high cost of electricity or not, there is nothing to lose if you practice some practical tips on how to save electrical energy at home.So, start checking your home appliances and see if there is anything that could be improved and monitor your monthly electric bill as a tracking means on your cost reduction efforts. As you continue this practice, you may eventually have figured-out which electric appliance is consuming the greatest amount of electrical power. By then, you would eventually know how to prioritize on the usage.
