126 Chapter 5 Community and Environmental Responsibilities
use the lowest wattage lightbulb that gives adequate light for the
specifi c need. Wattage indicates the amount of energy required to
operate the bulb. The amount of light produced is stated in lumens.
Both fi gures are usually labeled on packages.
•
Refrigerated Food Storage. Open and close the door quickly to prevent
the escape of cold air. Cover food containers before storing to prevent the
release of moisture. Added moisture makes the refrigerator work harder.
Keep refrigerator temperatures between 37°F and 40°F.
•
Other Kitchen and Laundry Appliances. When loading the dishwasher,
scrape off food scraps without rinsing to keep water use to a minimum.
Use the dishwasher’s air-drying feature when quick drying is not
essential. When cooking, match the size of a pan to the heating element.
Always use covers to hold heat in, especially when boiling water. When
using the oven, cook several dishes at the same time. When washing
clothes, adjust the water level to the size of the load. Dry heavier items
such as towels separately from lighter items. Avoid overdrying laundry.
•
Home Electronics and Offi ce Equipment. For home electronics and
offi ce equipment, 75 percent of the energy they use occurs while
turned off. Unplugging the items or plugging them into a power
strip that is switched off stops this wasteful “leakage.”
Shopping for Energy Effi ciency
When shopping for appliances, electronics, and powered equipment,
there are two prices to consider. The fi rst is the purchase price, which is
clearly labeled. The second is the operating cost. Operating cost is a very
important consideration, especially if you plan to use the item for many
years.
Bright yellow EnergyGuide labels help you compare the operating
costs of major appliances. These labels, developed by the U.S.
Science Connection
How CFLs Work
CFLs, or compact fl uorescent lamps,
produce an energy-effi cient type of light. To
create light in CFLs, electricity is driven through
a glass tube that contains small amounts of argon gas and
mercury vapor. This creates invisible light that excites a
phosphor (a luminescent substance) coating on the inside of
the tube. The tube then gives off visible light. Because CFLs
contain small amounts of mercury, do not throw them in the
trash when they no longer work. You can recycle them at
most home improvement centers. For more information on
CFLs, visit the Energy Star website at energystar.gov.
Lighting and
Appliances
After considering furnaces,
air conditioners, and water
heaters, all other energy users
average about 28 percent of the
home’s energy budget. This group
includes lighting, appliances, and
power-using equipment such as
TVs and offi ce machines.
•
Lighting. Use energy-effi cient
lightbulbs, such as compact-
fl uorescent bulbs. They give
off the brightness and color of
traditional lightbulbs, but last
4 to 10 times longer. Always
Home Energy
Consultant
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