Myth or Reality?
Think you have a good handle on fact vs. fiction when it comes to energy efficiency? Take a look at these common perceptions and the explanations that prove them true or false.
Myth - Actually, when you turn off an appliance, it may continue to consume electricity, sometimes as much as when it's on. Even though it is turned off, it is not necessarily off the grid. This includes computers, printers, flat screen televisions and cell phone chargers. These electrical products draw power 24 hours a day, which can add up when we consider the billions of electrical products and appliances in the United States. Consider purchasing a smart strip (different than a traditional power strip) that cuts off power to appliances that are powered off.
Myth - You should turn off all lamps and lights if the space is not going to be occupied for more than a few minutes. Modern fluorescent lights draw a higher level of current during startup, but it lasts for less than a second, which is negligible compared to the energy used by leaving the light on.
Myth - Energy efficient products sometimes cost more, but it may be possible to use smaller heating and cooling systems if they're highly efficient, which can help with the cost. Be sure to ask about that option when purchasing a system. Many energy efficiency upgrades/measures have a relatively short payback and a lifetime of savings
Myth - Laboratory research has shown that duct tape has very low durability when used to seal ducts. It does not adequately seal the joints in heating, ventilation and air conditioning ducts, and it has a short lifespan.
Reality - When buying new heating and cooling equipment such as a central air conditioning unit, proper sizing and quality installation are critical to your home's energy efficiency and comfort. Oversized equipment can cause reduced comfort and excessive noise. Oversizing also can shorten the life of the equipment by causing it to cycle on and off more frequently than a properly sized unit. However, undersized equipment can reduce the efficiency and accelerate wear on system components, leading to early failure.
Reality - Check your system's air filter once a month and replace it at least every 3 months. Have a pre-season check-up of your system by a licensed contractor in the Spring and Fall, to ensure all parts are working properly to avoid early system failure. If your furnace is more than 15 years old, or your a/c unit is more than 12 years old, consider replacing it with a more efficient and properly sized unit.
As much as half of your household energy use goes to heating and cooling. Replacing old equipment with more efficient equipment is a great way to save energy and money.
Myth - Screen savers consume more electricity displaying graphics and moving images. If you're going to be away from your desk for a long period of time, and particularly after hours, you should turn off your computer, monitor and peripherals using a smart strip. Some electronic products draw power even if the computer is not using them.
Myth - It's true that halogen lights use less energy than incandescent bulbs, but Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs (CFLs) are nearly three times as efficient as halogen bulbs and don't have energy-hogging transformers that can use extra energy, even when the light is off.
Myth - It is true that energy-efficient air conditioners and furnaces will reduce your energy bill, but the equipment must be sized and installed properly. This is also true for insulation, windows and many other energy-efficiency upgrades.
Reality - The attic is one of the places where you often find the biggest air leaks, which can increase your energy bills and make you uncomfortably hot in summer and cold in winter. It is also a place that is generally accessible, making it easier to air seal and insulate to improve your home's comfort and overall energy performance.
Reality - Rinsing dirty dishes before loading your dishwasher uses a lot of water and energy. Most dishwashers today can thoroughly clean dishes that have had food scraped, rather than rinsed off — the wash cycle and detergent take care of the rest. To make the most efficient use of your dishwasher's energy and water consumption, run the dishwasher only when enough dirty dishes have accumulated for a full load. Also, use the air-dry option if available.
Sources:
U.S. Department of Energy: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Fact Sheet ConsumerEnergyCenter.org Berkeley Lab Science Beat