Energy saving tips for your home

Heating

• Wear warm clothing and keep active
• Only heat rooms you are using
• Keep doors and windows closed
• Block gaps under doors with a draft stopper
• Shut curtains after sundown and buy lined or heavy drapes

Cooking

• Use heavy, flat-bottomed saucepans that cover the element
• Use one appliance for the whole meal
• Use the microwave for small meals or heating drinks
• When using the oven to bake or roast, cook enough for another meal as well
• Turn off elements or the oven before food is served and use the stored heat to finish cooking and keep food hot

Hot water

• Insulate your hot water cylinder and hot water pipes
• Turn down the thermostat on the hot water cylinder to 60 degrees C
• Fix leaking pipes and taps
• Use cold water for washing and to fill your kettle or saucepan
• Shower instead of taking a bath
• Choose a showerhead that will reduce the flow of water

Refrigerators

• Keep the fridge door closed and avoid frequent opening
• Cool food before putting it in the fridge or freezer
• Replace door seals when they are worn or damaged
• Defrost the freezer regularly

Clothes dryer

• Dry clothes outdoors whenever possible
• When using the dryer, make a full load

Lights

• Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances
• Use low-wattage bulbs where strong light is not needed
• Use a reading lamp for reading or close work

Source: The Salvation Army Community Ministries, Manukau City