Quote:
Originally Posted by rd_aaron
Turning off lights when you're not using them is a good idea as those bulbs can add up quickly, especially if you have incandescent or halogens.
Unplugging/plugging in a microwave (especially since the cable is usually tucked behind) is not worth my time. The standby power consumed by a microwave is around 3W (according to http://standby.lbl.gov/summary-table.html). In a year (8760 hours) you consume a total of 26.3kWh. At the current Enmax rate of ~5 cents/kWh, it comes out to a yearly savings of $1.32. You're probably more likely to damage the outlet or cord then see any significant savings.
There are a number of things in that link above, though, that make more sense to unplug. Ideally if you had one power bar for your TV, Game Console, Audio Receiver, and Cable Box it would be easy to shut them all off at once.
Turning off lights is still probably the biggest one. You could purchase LEDs if you're planning to be in your residence long-term as they'll pay themselves off.
Getting a programmable thermostat would offer significant savings as well. Set the furnace to only run when you're home and not sleeping. |
I do that. I have my cable box, computer, tv, etc. on one power bar that I turn off when I don't use it. I bought a book light so I can read at night without the overhead light on.