Unplugging Electronics, CFLs and Portable Clotheslines

by Alma
(Perth, Western Australia)

We researched ways in which to save money on our electrical bill. One of the first things I did was replace my 60W light bulbs with energy-saving compact fluorescent bulbs that give off the same light emission.

Another option that I considered was to check to see what appliances and other electronics were serving as 'electrical parasites'. Cell phone and portable electronics chargers, TVs, DVDs, and computers can actually consume power even when you think these devices aren't doing anything.

I also bought a programmable thermostat for my heat pump/air conditioning system. This really saves energy while we go to work or go on vacation by cooling or heating a space that is not being occupied.

My wife has also invested in a ‘portable’ clothesline! This is a neat little gadget that you can take anywhere outside and hang your clothes out to dry. This saves money by not running your electric dryer for hours on end.

I’ve also installed photoelectric eyes on my outside spotlights; there is no need to have the lights on all day while you are on vacation or at work. When it gets dark, the photo cells are activated and enable the light to come on.

By instituting these simple measures we are able to save about $25-30/month on our electrical bill and hopefully contribute to saving our environment.

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