Consume less, live better: how to reduce the energy consumption of your devices?
Our household appliances are real energy guzzlers! On a daily basis, their use not only contributes to increasing our electricity bill, but also to the ecological footprint of our homes. However, there are simple and effective tips to reduce their consumption without depriving ourselves of the comfort they bring us. From device choice to usage habits, every little bit counts. Why not start saving energy today while living better?
When it comes to choosing household appliances, energy efficiency should be a primary consideration. Indeed, a well-considered selection can lead to significant savings in the long term. According to Ademe, the right choices can save you up to 3,000 euros over the lifespan of your equipment! But to make these savings, you must first ensure that the devices correspond to the real needs of your household, in order to avoid wasting energy on devices that are too large or too powerful for your daily life.
Take the example of refrigerators. A model that is too large will use more energy to cool an unnecessarily large space. It is therefore recommended to choose a refrigerator adapted to the size of your household: 100 to 150 liters for a single person, 150 to 250 liters for two to three people, and so on. A model that combines fridge freezer for your kitchen is a good choice, as it optimizes both space and energy management, especially if you opt for models rated A+++.
When it comes to cooking, induction hobs are a wise choice for faster and more energy-efficient cooking than ceramic or gas hobs. Fan ovens, which ensure even heat distribution, are much more efficient than traditional models. For appliances like dishwashers or dryers, investing in recent models can really make a difference: some models consume up to half as much energy as their ten-year-old predecessors.
Adopt daily energy practices
Reducing your energy consumption at home does not require large investments or radical changes, but rather small daily actions. These simple, yet highly effective, habits can have a significant impact on your energy bill and the environment. Here are some practical tips to help you make a difference, inspired by WWFAdeme and UFC-Que Choisir.
For example, avoiding placing your refrigerator near a heat source, such as an oven or a radiator, helps prevent overconsumption of energy. A temperature set at 4°C for the refrigerator and -18°C for the freezer is ideal to optimize their operation without waste. Another small gesture is to leave a space of at least 10 cm behind these devices. This allows air to circulate freely and maintain a stable temperature, reducing energy consumption. And don't forget to defrost your refrigerator regularly: as soon as the layer of ice reaches 2 to 3 mm, it's time to act. This can reduce energy consumption by up to 30%.
In the kitchen, simple gestures can make all the difference. Using a lid when cooking helps retain heat and reduces energy expenditure by 25%. This action allows you to cook your food more quickly and more efficiently. Another reflex to adopt: turn off your electric hobs about 10 minutes before the end of cooking. They will continue to heat using residual heat, allowing you to finish cooking without wasting energy.
To maximize the efficiency of your household appliances and reduce your energy consumption, it often takes just a few simple actions! For example, choose washing at low temperatures. A 30°C cycle uses up to three times less energy than a 90°C wash, while being just as effective for lightly soiled clothes. And if you have lightly soiled clothes, don't hesitate to use the “Eco” program – it's the winning option to save money. To keep your washing machine in perfect condition, also remember to clean the filter and seals regularly.
As for the dryer, try to use it sparingly. Natural drying, in the open air, remains the most eco-friendly and least expensive option. If you absolutely must use the dryer, remember to clean the lint filter frequently to ensure good air circulation and optimized energy consumption.
The dishwasher, like the washing machine, benefits greatly from “Eco” programs. Choose them, or opt for a 50°C wash if possible, to save up to 45% energy compared to hotter cycles.
Little tip: it is not necessary to rinse your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher. A simple removal of solid debris is sufficient. And for everything to work perfectly, remember to regularly clean the filter and the seals and check the water inlet and outlet pipes once a year.
