The discussion of how a single person can have an effect on the global problem of climate change can often reach boiling point. I am a firm believer in every-little-helps, and would like to see the powerful force of 60 million UK citizens working together. Most people are probably aware of how they can reduce their electricity and heating consumption, without massively altering their lifestyles and here I will bust 3 of the most common myths that could stop people from achieving a reduction (and thus losing out on money!)
1) ‘switching a light off uses more power than leaving it on’
Switching a light on does use a large amount of energy, but only for a very short period of time (think the time it takes for Usain Bolt to run 1m). In fact, leaving a light off for 5 seconds saves the energy taken to switch a light on. So have a light off for more than 5 seconds, and you will be saving electricity. The same goes for appliances that would normally be left on standby – you can save a lot of electricity by switching them off.
2) ‘washing up vs. dishwashers’
If a dishwasher is only used once a week (for everything) then it is probably not doing too much harm. However, if it starts to be used 2-3 times a week, plus separate hand washing for saucepans and the soaking of dishwasher items, then it starts to add up. You are looking at 3 times as much electricity and hot water, plus the extra money in purchasing tablets, for dishwashing over hand washing (throughout one week) – plus the job of emptying the dishwasher still remains.
3) ‘replacing a non-energy efficient light bulb before it dies is a waste of energy’
You would think this is the case, but with the efficiency of modern light bulbs and the production methods used, it is much better to replace an old light bulb as soon as possible. Plus, there are now ample facilities for recycling old light bulbs.
If anyone else knows of any more popular misconceptions within the home, then please let us know!
