Energy and Water efficiency for Washer

Washers

Energy and Water Efficiency

New washers have options to reduce the amount of water you use in a cycle.

Energy Standards for Washers
If it's been a while since you bought a washer, even regular models will be more efficient than your old one: U.S. Department of Energy standards for all clothes washers made or sold in the United States were raised on January 1, 2007. Look for the yellow and black EnergyGuide label, which will note the product's specifications.

The Modified Energy Factor (MEF) measures washer energy-efficiency. It is determined by dividing tub capacity by the total energy consumption per cycle (washing machine energy, water-heating energy and dryer energy). The higher the MEF, the more efficient the washing machine is. All standard-size top-loading and front-loading washers must have an MEF of 1.26 or greater.

High-Efficiency Washers
Today's energy-efficient washing machines are effective cleaners that cost only a few hundred dollars more than their standard counterparts. If price is the overriding factor in your decision making, consider this: after four or five years, an energy-efficient washer will have paid back the extra money it cost to buy, thanks to lower utility bills. Also, some states offer rebates to consumers who buy energy-efficient or Energy Star washers.

Energy Star
Designed to promote efficient energy usage in homes and businesses, the Energy Star program is a joint effort of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy. To meet Energy Star guidelines, a full-size washer must have an MEF greater than or equal to 1.72.

According to program officials, Energy Star qualified washers use 50 percent less energy than a standard washer and significantly less water: about 18 to 25 gallons per load, instead of approximately 40 gallons. These washing machines also tend to extract more water from the clothing while spinning, reducing necessary dryer time.

Both top-loading and front-loading clothes washers can qualify for ENERGY STAR, although front loaders generally use less energy and water than top-loaders.

In 2007, Energy Star also started measuring water efficiency, ensuring that all washers with its label meet a Water Factor (WF) requirement of 8 or less. The WF is determined by dividing the gallons of water used per cycle by the tub capacity. The lower the WF, the less water the machine uses.

The Energy Star Web site, www.energystar.gov, offers more information about home energy efficiency, including special offers or rebates and a list of Energy Star qualified washers.

Water Conservation
According to the American Water Works Association, clothes washers account for 20.1 percent of water used daily in a typical single-family home with no water-saving fixtures. It amounts to 15.1 gallons daily, second only to toilets, which use 20.1 gallons. A water-saving washer automatically saves energy, because about 90 percent of the energy used to wash clothes goes toward heating the water.

Energy Saving Tips
Whether or not you buy an Energy Star washer, you can save energy by:

• Washing full loads

• Adjusting the water level setting for small loads

• Using cold water (or warm instead of hot) and cold-water detergent whenever possible

• Use a high-speed or extended spin cycle to minimize dryer time

Extract from Kitchens.com

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Price normally 20%-50% cheaper than other furniture shop

downlights

L box light is downlight not spotlights... so not warm one. Energy saving got warm white, cool white and daylight... 3 different tone.

If you are buying a lot of down lights, consider going to those electrical hardware store (but limited design). Only a few of these shops are around. But the cost is about 50% cheaper or more as compared to any lighting shops. Plus you get the ultra bright Philips bulb instead of those cheapo bulbs. Try to get those that uses Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (screw on type, no need additional ballast, save electricity) instead of the usual Fluorescent Light Bulbs (four pin socket, needs ballast, which generate a lot of heat)

ya no matter what your house theme is, tell your contractor/id that you want lots of ENERGYSAVING bulbs.
Buy only philips or osram - the rest are crap.
If you have lots of downlight in a row, 5w bulb is suffice.
And you wont regret when you receive your PUB bills.

Common replacement bulb : 13w bulbs with E27 connectors

For my driveway (as well as my kitchen), I have one switch which allows me to control two different set of lights. Turn on once and Set #1 lights come on. Turn off then then on again, Set #2 lights come on. Turn off then then on again, both Set #1 and Set #2 lights come on. This is made possible by putting a relay on the lights.

idea to increase light output

Lights, when u open up the cover, inside surface is mostly white. I was thinking to paint the inside silver, using aluminum paint which I saw in DIY shops, in order to increase the internal reflection, so that more light is throw out from the lamp. Just like some Down Lights interior is made of aluminum reflective plates.

I wonder Silver vs White, which one is more reflective... is this idea good to go?

Comments and suggestions are welcome

*********
REPLY
Try on a small part and insignificant area to see, and need to make sure the paint is highly reflective. ICI Light & Space claims to reflect 2 x the light (stated on their webbie)

Energy Conservation Appliances

Tips on Energy Saving Home Appliances :



Air-conditioners and refrigerators were the first 2 appliances to be covered under the ELS as their usage accounts for about 50% of the total electricity bill of a typical household.

refrigerators

When buying a New Refrigerator
Refrigerators have an expected useful life of 17 years. It is therefore important to purchase a refrigerator that meets your needs, but does not exceed them.
Measure the space where you want to put your refrigerator. Most manufacturers recommend 25 mm (1") of space on each side for airflow.
Choose a model with an energy saver switch, allowing you to determine the setting that provides maximum energy savings without causing any condensation.
Consider a model with wheels as it will be easier to pull it out and clean the coils.

Energy Efficient Tips
Do not place your refrigerator near heat sources such as sunlight, the stove or the oven.
Adjust the thermostat to the recommended settings.
Allow hot food to cool before placing it in the refrigerator and cover all food and liquids.
Refrigerators operate most efficiently with good air circulation. It is therefore good practice not to overload it.
Do not open the door unnecessarily as the cool air will escape.
Clean the coils at the back of your refrigerator every six months. Be sure to unplug the unit first for safety.
Test the door seal occasionally by closing the door on a thin piece of paper. If it does not stay in place, the seal should be replaced.

water Heating
Use an instantaneous water heater instead of one with a storage tank.
A storage water heater with a capacity of 23-27 litres should be sufficient for a family of 4-6.
Switch on the storage water heater for 20 minutes before taking the bath.

washing machine
Refrain from using hot water to wash clothes.
Wash a full load of laundry at a time. Alternatively, you could set the water level to match the amount of laundry.
Use the correct amount of detergent.

electric & microwave ovens
Do not open the oven door while the food is cooking as the temperature may drop by 25oC to 30oC each time the door is opened.
Cook multiple dishes at the same time. Cooking 2 dishes in the oven requires less time and also less energy as compared to cooking each dish in the oven one after another.
Avoid placing aluminium foil next to the cookware as it would reflect the heat away from the dish. The dish would then require a longer time and more energy to cook
Avoid thawing frozen food in ovens as this can be easily done at room temperature although it takes a longer time.

ironing
Plan your ironing. Start with items which require lower temperatures so as to avoid unnecessary and repeated heating of the iron.
Set appropriate temperatures for the various types of fabrics.

television
When watching television programmes, keep the room's light low. This helps to save electricity and also reduces annoying glare from your television screen.
Switch off the television set when not in use.

vacuum Cleaner
Switch off the vacuum cleaner when the motor becomes too hot, or when there is a change in the sound of the motor. There might be something trapped in the hose.
Empty or replace the dust bag frequently.

air-conditioners
Ensure that the air-conditioning unit is properly sized for your home. Operating a unit, which is either too large or too small, is highly inefficient. It is also more energy efficient to install a split unit if you are cooling more than one room.
Clean the air filter regularly and have your air conditioner inspected annually. An annual inspection of your cooling system may extend the life of your equipment and help you to save money by lowering your energy bills. Poorly maintained air conditioners can waste a tremendous amount of energy.
Set the thermostat at an ideal temperature of 25oC.
Close windows and doors when your air-conditioner is in use.
Keep your house cool by using awnings, blinds and solar reflecting film on the windows.

lighting

Although lighting in your home does not account for the largest percentage of your bill, it is still worthwhile to be as economical as possible.
Remember to turn the lights out when you leave a room
Try using fewer light bulbs.
Use lower-wattage incandescent bulbs.
Light timers can help save energy and are also useful in protecting your home when you are away.
Clean lights shine brighter. It is therefore worthwhile to dust your lights - but be sure to turn off the fixture first.

Find Out More about the Various Types of Lighting Available

ENERGY EFFICIENT LIGHTING ALTERNATIVES

Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs



Use up to 70% less energy than a standard light bulb.



Last up to 10 times longer, and come in the same 'natural white' as a standard bulb.



To achieve the best payback on their original cost, fluorescent bulbs are ideal for lights that are used for longer than 3 hours a day.

Savings are not only achieved in the energy efficiency of the bulb but also on the cost of buying replacement bulbs.



Fluorescent Tubes



Use 60 - 80 % less energy than a standard bulb.



Last 10 to 20 times longer, and come in a range of light quality.



Available in a wide assortment of lengths.



Perfect for bathrooms, kitchens and workshops.

Although the upfront cost is greater than normal bulbs, they are economical to use and can spread even light over wide areas.

Energy Saving Bulbs
The simplest way to save energy is to replace your standard bulb with energy saving incandescents. They are available in wattages of 34, 52, 90 and 135 to replace your 40, 60, 100 and 150 watt bulbs. The slightly lower light output is not noticeable for most people.

Task Lighting
Refrain from using general room lighting for specific purposes, instead use reading lamps or lights over a kitchen counter. With an effective balance of general and task lighting, you will be able to achieve energy efficiency and a delightful environment.

Dimmer Switches
Regular light bulbs can be made more efficient by controlling them with dimmer switches, which are relatively inexpensive. Turning the light level down will save energy, extend the life of the bulb, and set the mood in a room. If you have dimmer switches and find yourself consistently reducing the light level, consider switching to lower wattage bulbs.


Halogen Bulbs
Halogen bulbs are another efficient replacement for your standard bulb. Halogens are similar to incandescents, however they produce a whiter light, use up to 40% less energy and last two to four times longer. Although Halogen bulbs are more expensive to purchase, they are perfect for track lighting and outdoor security.

Free services related to Renovation work

1. For checking of home security system, can request for Security Officer from Police post :

Refer to eHDB website


2. After electrical rewiring is done, SP Services can provide free testings of wiring installations :