When it comes to tips on saving energy there is a lot of misinformation out there and many assumptions that are way out of date when it comes to running modern appliances.
Here are some common energy myths that you shouldn’t believe and why:
Myth 1: Keeping a Fan On Will Cool Empty Rooms
A fan works by circulating the air in a room, when the air makes contact with the skin it makes us feel cooler. It does not actually change the temperature of the room. There is zero benefit to running a fan in an empty room. It just wastes power and money.
Myth 2: Setting the Air-con Lower Will Cool Your Home Faster
Thermostats direct a system to heat or cool at a certain temperature. Setting the temperature low to increase the speed of cooling is akin to pressing the button repeatedly at a zebra crossing: it’s not going to make a difference. You may actually waster far more energy by not remembering to switch it back. Simply, set your air-con temp to your desired temperature. This also applies to heating.
Myth 3: Sleep Mode is Just Fine For Computers Overnight
Quite a lot of energy is used in “sleep” mode so that the computer can be ready to pop back on at a moment’s notice. It is best to shut your computer down all the way overnight or when you are planning on not using it.
Myth 4: Washing Dishes By Hand is More Energy Efficient Than Using a Dishwasher
Hand washing dishes actually uses more hot water per load than using a dishwasher. Most modern dishwashers have energy efficiency settings that use less water and energy to keep costs down.
Myth 5: Appliances Don’t Use Energy When They Are Turned Off
Thanks to standby power settings, most appliances constantly use energy in order to be ready for immediate usage. These “energy vampires” cannot be turned completely off without unplugging the device altogether.
Myth 6: Leaving a Light On Uses Less Energy Than Turning it Off and On Several Times
Even though a higher level of current is needed to turn on a light, this higher level is only used for a fraction of a second. When a light is kept on, it uses a lower level of power but for much longer. Leaving a light on for longer than a few seconds uses more energy than turning it off and back on as needed
Myth 7: Electronic Chargers Don’t Use Energy if Plugged in and Disconnected From the Device
Although this may be true for some chargers, most chargers use power while plugged in but not connected to their device. If your charger feels warm to touch, it is most likely using power. It is best to just assume that all of your chargers use this type of power and to unplug them when they are not being used.
