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How Energy Efficiency Prepares Texas Residents for Climate Extremes?

How Energy Efficiency Prepares Texas Residents for Climate Extremes?

Energy efficiency is the biggest tool at your disposal as it keeps the generation of harmful carbon emissions in check....
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Beat the Heat Program – What it is and How you Can Benefit?

Beat the Heat Program – What it is and How you Can Benefit?

Scorching summers take their toll on the most vulnerable Houstonians. If you are without air conditioning this time of year,...
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List of Places You Can Keep Cool During the Houston Heat Wave

List of Places You Can Keep Cool During the Houston Heat Wave

As you brace yourself for the Houston heat wave, your safety and those you care about must take priority. When...
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How Energy-Saving Apps Help Homeowners

May 6,2021
by Ayesha Saini
energy saving apps

A global McKinsey study reveals that Americans waste billions of dollars of residential energy annually. As a property owner, it makes sense to depend on electricity or energy-saving apps especially when you want to reduce your expenses. Together with smart home devices, these apps improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Relying on a free home energy monitor, for instance, allows you to closely track your daily usage. Such applications collate data at their disposal and deliver instant reports and updates directly to your smartphone. When you are aware of home contributors to excess energy wastage, you can work on proactively altering those practices.

Benefits of Energy Saving Apps

By analyzing patterns, a free home energy monitor can recommend strategies and actionable solutions thereby, aiding in smarter decision-making. These valuable tools that work round the clock maintain historical data and enable your household to reduce its energy consumption.

Unplugging the toaster when not in use or upgrading to an energy-efficient appliance does make a remarkable difference. Apps that ease real-time monitoring also identify abnormal energy usage and power drains. They recognize individual appliances that sap energy when plugged in.

Why Download Energy-Saving Apps?

Applications focused on saving energy give you increased control over your household’s consumption. As a homeowner with energy saving apps you can:

Track Your Energy Expenditure

These application systems when connected to your electrical meter and residential appliances give you a break-up of your expenses. You get a clear picture of the household items consuming the most energy and those that support your conservation attempts.

Apps that are user-friendly and integrate easily with the routine functioning of your household help you save the planet. Energy efficiency no longer is out of reach and saving money on your utility bills gradually becomes a reality.

Check Wastage

Your household’s energy wastage often appears minimal at first but, an accurate calculation may reveal otherwise. Energy saving apps helps track waste appropriately guides you in your energy-saving efforts.

Monitoring your carbon footprint compels you to act more responsibly. You consciously begin focusing on ways to improve your lifestyle habits that directly impact the environment.

Seize Energy-Saving Opportunities

Energy-saving apps besides helping you cut down your consumption also suggest practical measures to help you make a positive difference. These recommendations aim to enhance your savings and lower your carbon footprint.

Suggestions provided by such mobile applications on practical ways to conserve more energy are doable when you make a conscious effort. You will be pleasantly surprised to see an increase in your level of savings on the energy and outgoings fronts.

Compare residential plans on Shop Texas Electricity so you can stay clear of exorbitant monthly bills. As a homeowner, you have a right to choose what suits you and switch providers whenever the need arises.

Energy Vampires to Look Out For in Your Home

May 5,2021
by Ayesha Saini
energy vampires

A significant increase in household energy consumption and monthly outgoings are among the notable energy vampires symptoms. This happens when many electronic appliances and devices continue to draw power when plugged into electrical outlets even when switched off or idle.

Given the number of gadgets a regular household uses, you must attempt to defeat these phantom loads. Steps to achieve this goal include:

  • Identify the types of energy vampires
  • Plug massive energy feeders into a power strip that can activate or deactivate many devices in an instant
  • Replace old appliances with efficient models that conserve energy even when in standby mode

Recognizing Energy Vampires Symptom

Rarely can a household escape from the presence of energy vampires that consume electricity despite turning them off. Such electrical vampires tick one or more of the listed checkboxes:

  • Have a remote control for operational purposes
  • Rely on an external power supply
  • Have an LED status light and digital display
  • Feature a digital clock
  • Have a soft-touch keypad
  • Include a battery charger provision

Different Types of Energy Vampires Found In Homes

Household devices known to consume the most standby power thereby, displaying energy vampires symptoms include:

HVAC Units

Heating and cooling gadgets are an integral amenity found in most American households. Depending on existing weather conditions, these units circulate appropriate air throughout your home.

In the summer your HVAC systems keep humidity at bay while in the colder months it circulates warm air. These provisions contribute to comfortable living in your residential abode.

Charging Systems

When you charge your phone, camera, or computer, these systems continue to draw phantom energy if not unplugged. You can either inculcate the habit of unplugging your charger or invest in eco-friendly power cords to avoid energy vampires symptoms.

Energy-efficient charging systems automatically deactivate when your corresponding device is fully powered. This keeps your household’s energy consumption in check without demanding your intervention.

Gaming Consoles

Adults and children are equally fascinated by addictive and exciting gaming consoles. The devices with an activated ‘pause’ or ‘ready’ feature consume excessive amounts of energy even when not in use.

Instead of relying on turning off your console once done for the day, set it on power-saving mode. Newer gaming consoles have a user-friendly feature of automatically shifting into power-saving mode on crossing a stipulated period of idle time.

Computers

Laptops, tablets, and desktops all consume excess energy when plugged in and not in sleep mode. Opting to recharge these devices the whole night invites energy wastage as on average an hour or two is adequate. Keep these gadgets on sleep mode when idle to prevent them from inflating your energy bills.

Select an affordable plan by visiting the Shop Texas Electricity portal and save more.

How Can Indoor Plants Reduce Heat and Help Save More Electricity

May 4,2021
by Ayesha Saini
plants reduce heat

Indoor plants besides adding a refreshingly natural touch to your interiors also contribute to your savings. If you often wonder how do plants reduce heat, the answer lies in the extra insulation layer they provide.

House plants cool down indoor temperatures thereby, lowering energy costs and corresponding bills. They enhance indoor air quality and keep your home cooler during the warmest months. You can thus reduce your dependence on cooling devices that potentially breed bacteria and bring on allergic reactions.

How Do Plants Reduce Heat?

When plant leaves release moisture, they purify and refresh the surrounding air by cooling that expanse. Releasing moisture in a warm room lowers the existing temperature by almost 10 degrees.

As potted house plants emit oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide, they remove harmful toxins and considerably control humidity. Bringing greenery indoors helps to create a comfortable living space that keeps you cool and energized.

Saving Electricity with Indoor Plants

Mother Nature does play a critical role in reducing your carbon footprint without you realizing sometimes. While incorporating plants into your living space, choose those that survive well indoors. Only then will these plants reduce heat and correspondingly cut your cooling expenses.

Here is how you save more electricity with the addition of indoor plants:

Lowers the Pressure on Your HVAC Units

Whether in summer or winter, indoor plants have a knack for maintaining the ideal temperature within a confined space. As a result, you need not run your HVAC system at its optimum.

Setting the thermostat at extreme temperatures puts an extra load on the functioning of your HVAC system. By allowing your HVAC units to operate in reasonable settings, plants reduce heat as they consume limited amounts of energy.

Improves Air Quality

Apart from indoor plants reducing heat, they also improve air quality by removing harmful toxins from the air you breathe. These natural air purifiers rule out the need for electrical gadgets meant for the same purpose.

By reducing airborne dust and pollutants, plants enable you to inhale the freshest air most cost-effectively. You no longer have to install humidifiers that operate on electricity when your plants serve the same purpose without consuming precious energy.

Caring For Indoor Plants

Most of these plant species are low on maintenance and effectively enhance your interior decor. Indoor plants reduce heat and thrive when exposed to natural light so, preferably position them near windows and balconies.

Subjecting your plants to over-watering can kill them rather than helping them flourish. Shedding is natural to a plant’s growth hence, on noticing a yellowing leaf or browning tip prune it right off. Allow your plants to thrive in their original pots instead of repotting them too frequently.

Save more energy by joining hands with Shop Texas Electricity and choosing from a wide range of attractive plans.

Energy Saving Tips: How to Load Your Dishwasher the Right Way

April 29,2021
by Ayesha Saini
energy saving tips on how to load dishwasher

It is a fact that operating a full dishwasher load saves more energy than washing dirty dishes by hand. Yet, with dishwasher energy saving tips you can improve its efficiency and lower expenses.

Learning about energy saving tips for dishwasher and applying these practices improves your household’s efficiency.

Guidelines on How to Save Energy with Dishwasher Loading

If you want to enhance your energy savings, reduce water consumption, load your dishwasher correctly. Knowing how and what to stack in your dishwasher racks contributes to efficient operations.

Concentrating on each rack individually will give you a clearer understanding of how to proceed:

Lower Rack Energy Saving Tips

Essential energy saving tips for dishwasher touch upon enabling a better wash by separating dishes you place in the lowest rack. Spatial distancing ensures individual items do not rub against each other nor chip when the machine is operational. Other key aspects include:

  • Placing the dirtiest section of each dish such that it directly faces the water source
  • Stacking larger items on the sides and rear of your bottom rack prevents unnecessary obstructions
  • Loading handled utensils by pointing their corresponding handles downwards
  • Positioning sharp knives so their handles face upwards or you risk getting cut
  • Overturning pot and pans saves dishwasher energy as they do not collect dirty water

Top Rack Energy Saving Tips

Place your plastic containers in the uppermost rack of your dishwasher. The location of your machine’s heating element is on the lower end of your unit and can melt your plastics. For safety reasons, only load dishwasher-safe items into this cleaning device.

Besides, stack all your dirty bowls at an angle towards the middle so they avoid collecting water. For energy saving, position all your larger utensils in the dip between your cups and bowls. The center of your top rack is ideal for stacking long dishes and preventing them from slipping down.

Enhance Dishwasher Efficiency

As a matter of fact, regular cleaning of your unit helps to save energy with dishwasher usage. Operate your dishwasher only when you have a full load of dirty dishes but, avoid overloading it. Allow your washed utensils to air dry instead of activating the heat cycle on your device.

Again, operate such large appliances when the demand for energy is not at its peak. Rinsing your soiled dishes before stacking them in modern dishwashers is a waste of water. Preferably wash metal, cast-iron, and wooden items by hand as these are not dishwasher-friendly.

Switch your provider if your monthly outgoings continue to soar despite using your dishwasher efficiently. You can refer to the many affordable plans available on the Shop Texas Electricity site.

How to Make the Most of Your Dorm Life in Houston

April 28,2021
by Ayesha Saini
dorm life in houston

Your first move away from home may bring on mixed feelings of excitement and anxiousness. The dorm life in Houston exposes you to a whole new way of living. They also encourage you to conserve energy and contribute to a greener planet.

When the average dorm room energy use by college students is high, it increases the cost of living. Practicing energy conservation in your dorms and on campus, in general, has far-reaching effects.

Transitioning to Dorm Life in Houston

Settling into student housing can feel challenging in the initial days. Considering you value your independence, making a successful transition involves effort.

Equip your space with efficient conveniences that keep average dorm room energy use minimal. To survive dorm life in Houston, begin by learning to accept and adjust to the listed highlights of dorm life:

  • Noise levels from the slamming of doors and constant chatter reach unbelievable decibels
  • Privacy becomes a rare luxury especially when you do not have an independent room
  • Sharing bathroom facilities rules out leisurely showers

Making the Most of Dorm Life

Adjusting to dormitory living takes patience and time. University of Houston’s best dorms focus on easing this transition. In addition, to make the most of this early adulthood experience, learn to find opportunities in the challenges you face.

Here are some tips to ensure your college dorm life leaves you with lasting memories:

Network and Build Strong Relationships

Bonding with roommates who may have personalities opposite to you simplifies life. With an attitude of humility, generosity, and teamwork, you can extend a hand of friendship.

Besides, studying in a group and together doing chores like laundry, cleaning, or grocery shopping inculcates a team spirit. Since your fellow companions are strangers at first, these informal interactions in dorm life in Houston help you make new buddies.

Contribute to Reducing Your Dorm Energy Usage

While soaking in the dorm life in Houston you can practice the following to conserve energy:

  • Use only efficient and long-lasting LEDs in your room
  • Wash your laundry with cold water
  • Reduce your shower time to cut down on water and electricity consumption
  • Report signs of air leaks through windows and broken radiator controls as these hamper your energy-saving mission
  • Unplug your electronic devices and turn off all switches before exiting your room

Manage Your Time Effectively

Use this opportunity to sharpen your time management skills so you achieve all you need to before the day ends. With freedom comes responsibilities hence, you cannot overlook essential aspects. Studying, personal hygiene and quality sleep all deserve equal attention.

Houston Universities conscious of preserving the environment prefer to partner with dependable service providers. Explore the Shop Texas Electricity website for a wider choice of affordable energy plans.

Why Install Dimmer Switches in Your Home?

April 27,2021
by Ayesha Saini
install dimmer switch

Dimmer switches are integral to smart homes as they reduce brightness levels and conserve energy. When you install dimmer switches that you can remotely control, you can adjust your lighting from any location at home. Dimming your lights by 25% allows you to save an equal amount on your power outgoings.

A dimmer switch for LED lights further extends the lifespan of these long-lasting bulbs. By dimming your lighting you reduce your electricity usage, thereby avoiding frequent bulb replacements and high utility costs. Modern dimmers ensure there is no energy wastage of any sort.

To Install Dimmer Switches Or Not?

Upgrading to dimmer switches is the way forward considering advancements in lighting fixtures cater to this provision. The options available in the dimmer switch for LED lights category are also evolving.

Besides traditional up and down sliders, those with an override switch and motion sensors are proving highly functional. The latter variety of dimmer switches has a sensor that turns the lights on when it detects motion. As the room empties, the lights automatically switch off.

Choose to install dimmer switches in your home as it offers the following advantages:

Saves Energy

The more rooms you equip with dimmer switches and frequently dim your lights, your energy savings increase. These switches help control the amount of electricity consumed by lighting sources across your home. Dimming even one electric bulb saves a large percentage of electrical energy.

Creates the Perfect Ambiance

With dimmer switches, you can adjust your lighting to suit your mood. Creating that perfect environment in a section of your home is now in your control. While entertaining, dim lights give your guests a warm and inviting feel. In contrast, bright lights help you concentrate on your work or studies.

Increases the Longevity of Lights

Your LED lights and electric bulbs last longer when you install dimmer switches. Dimming your lights ensures they do not work as hard since you prevent them from reaching saturation point. By incorporating dimmer switches you rarely need to spend on replacing or repairing your non-functional lights.

Do Dimmer Switches Work?

These switches operate on simple electrical principles. Traditional dimmer switches reduce the electricity passing through a circuit to lower a light’s brightness. Modern dimmers change the electrical flow direction and reduce the current your light bulb receives.

They dim or brighten your lights by alternating the circuit between on and off mode. This switching cycle does not take time to process which takes care of energy conservation. Considering these switches are easy to install and serve a greater purpose, it is worth switching over to this technology.

Combine the energy you save with dimmer installations by choosing a budget-friendly plan from Shop Texas Electricity.

Why Should You Cover Your Windows During Spring and Summer?

April 23,2021
by dmirza
cover your window

Perhaps you think that your neighbors use those floral and pastel drapes as window treatments for aesthetic reasons. Agreed – they are beautiful and add to the curbside appeal, but there is more to it.

Spring and summer energy savings are not just about lowering your AC bills and air-drying your laundry. If you know how to cover your windows the right way, you can add more indoor comfort. Moreover, you can keep the sun’s heat from radiating inside.

If you have never covered up your windows before, here’s how and why you should start now:

How to Cover Your Windows: Interior or Exterior?

Most window coverings like blinds, drapes, shades, curtains, etc., are used on the interior.

Curtains and drapes are fabric material, woven or stitched. Homeowners prefer them because they are easier to install and replace. You can operate without stepping outside. They are both manual and automatic options.

Exterior blinds completely block the sun, and you install them on the window sill. They are far sturdier, made of steel, vinyl, wood, or aluminum, and last longer.

Roman shades have roller bars, and you open them up by rolling. Reflective blinds add to the current insulation and lower heat transfer.

Now that you know the differences, it is time to learn how to cover your windows.

Should You Always Close the Windows?

Close the windows when using a fan along with your AC. Whatever window coverings you use, it is better to close the windows during the day. A slight breeze may feel nice, but you also let in heat if you open the curtains.

By closing them, you can avoid the hot sun’s rays from entering your home. Also, opening them will increase the burden on your cooling units, and the energy consumption increases.

You can also save power by opening the blinds during the night. Indoor heat can escape through the windows and allow cool air to enter the bedroom.

Since it doesn’t feel closed-off anymore, you will be more comfortable. Besides, the indoor-outdoor temperature difference reduces, and you will get lower cooling bills.

Cover Windows in Unique Ways

If you want unconventional ideas on how to cover your windows, here are some creative tips:

Use rustic privacy screens or vintage shutters outside or in the home in front of the windows. You can remove them quickly when you don’t need them. But some heat can pass through the gaps, but you can feel the fresh air coming in.

Use faux stained glass or frosted glass to your window. They enhance the visual appeal and look colorful as sunlight bounces off them.

Add lace windowpanes if you want to let natural light in. The material absorbs some heat but cannot cool down completely even if you close the windows when using a fan.

As you focus on how to cover your windows, you’ll also improve the efficiency of your AC unit. Maintain it properly and use an affordable energy plan to reduce monthly bills.

Discover suitable plans on Shop Texas Electricity now!

How Much Does Your ENERGY STAR Certified Smart TV Save?

April 22,2021
by dmirza
ENERGY STAR Certified Smart TV

You have recently purchased an ENERGY STAR certified smart TV. You enjoy many benefits of using ENERGY STAR products, such as keeping your carbon footprint low.

While your decision may depend on what’s trending right now, it is actually a cost-savings option.

To know how much money you save with your new energy-efficient TV, let us first look at some crucial information.

Evolution of Televisions

Currently, Americans spend around half a day consuming data on the media. Whether it is watching television or using TV-connected apps/smart devices, 88% of adults stay glued for more than five hours.

From the first theories about transmission of images across devices in the 1800s to today’s ENERGY STAR certified smart TVs, technology has come a long way.

The Beginnings

Mechanical image transmission happened in 1920, while the first electronic television appeared in 1927. The earlier TV models were huge, as big as a refrigerator.

In the 1940s, their bulk reduced, and color television sets came out in the next decade. After World War II ended, people received higher incomes, and there were about 12 million TV sets in use by 1951.

Remote controls, better sound quality, low TV power consumption, more advanced buttons, and design options were the focus until the 90s. Newer models got thinner and ditched the convex CRTs (cathode-ray tubes).

The 2000s

Flat-screen, energy-efficient TVs with an inch of thickness, increased width, and the absence of a bulky behind made pictures seem like they are in front of you.

Slowly, sharper technology achieved real, life-like images as the TV lost buttons, cords, ports, and knobs. They incorporated High-Definition, 4K or 8K resolution, and 3D options and came with inwardly curved screens.

Cable and video games from the 80s are accessible with a touch on the new generation smart TVs and streaming services.

Your ENERGY STAR Certified Smart TV Consumes Less Power

Your TV power consumption amounts to around 5% of the energy usage of the entire home. When you think of sustainable options, it is possible to lower your carbon emissions and save money on utility bills with a new TV.

Switching from an older CRT TV to any new version can definitely save you some money. But here’s how ENERGY STAR certified smart TVs compare with others:

Tube-Style TVs

TVs with CRTs are almost invisible in most appliance stores nowadays. Although CRT televisions contributed to 85% of sales in 2003, only 46% of U.S. homes had one by 2014. Since they are small in size, they consume less energy, about 80 watts per hour for a 19-inch TV.

LCD TVs

Liquid Crystal Display television sets have three polarized glass panels: red, blue, and green. When light spins through this color wheel, it creates a sharp and vivid image output. A 50-inch LCD television consumes about 150 watts of energy an hour.

LED TVs

They are a subsect of LCD TVs that use light-emitting diodes. Like LCDs, they are the screens you find in laptops, computers, etc. Average sizes range between 32 and 65 inches and can go over 80 inches. LED TVs are nearly 30% more energy efficient as a 50-inch unit uses only 100 watts. Most ENERGY STAR certified smart TVs use LED technology.

DLP TVs

Digital Light Processing TVs are contemporaries of LCD TVs. Also called rear-projection televisions, they are over 50 inches in screen size. An average-sized, 56-inch TV consumes 175 watts of power. So, compared to LCDs and LEDs, DLPs are more energy-efficient TVs.

Plasma TVs

Encased plasma (charged gas) illuminates image pixels between two sheets of glass. Plasmas offer wider viewing angles and enhance your TV watching experience, but they hog more energy. A 40-inch plasma TV can consume more than 500 watts, and many companies have stopped producing plasma TV models.

OLED TVs

In OLED TVs or Organic Light Emitting Diode, part of the screen is entirely dark as unnecessary pixels illuminate. Hence, they offer a superior picture quality. But a 55-inch OLED TV power consumption amounts to 98 watts, which is almost 40% more than LED TVs of the same size.

Smart TVs with ENERGY STAR Rating

Energy Star certification is awarded to TVs that pass stringent energy efficiency standards. Energy Star rated TV models save 25% more energy compared to conventional models.

If everyone uses a TV, DVD, and sound system carrying an ENERGY STAR rating, greenhouse gas emissions will decrease by 2.8 billion pounds.

How to Choose an ENERGY STAR Certified Smart TV?

If you already own an energy-efficient TV, calculate your typical usage. You can also get a home energy monitor to find ways to lower power consumption in the bathroom, kitchen, and the entire house.

When you set out to buy a smart TV, look for these features:

Light-emitting diode (LED) technology: Make sure it is not OLED, or else you will pay more upfront and in lifelong costs.

High Dynamic Range (HDR): This feature offers amazing picture quality, a wider range of colors, contrast levels, and highlights.

Streaming capabilities: Streaming is not just for binge-watching on-demand shows. You can connect smart devices, apps, speakers for your enhanced convenience.

HDMI plugs: There should be more than three HDMI input ports so the TV can accommodate elements like a cable box, game console, etc.

TV size: Measure the living room size, your furniture, and the line sight to find an ENERGY STAR certified smart TV in the right size.

Most of all, check if it has these TV energy efficiency features:

Automatic Brightness Control: Control the brightness of the screen according to the time of the day, your personal preference, and other factors.

Local Dimming: Dim parts of the LED backlighting and achieve deeper blacks for an improved TV viewing experience.

Picture Settings: ENERGY STAR label pre-programmed picture settings, such as vivid, cinema, and sports, ensure significant energy savings.

Get Additional Savings on TVs with ENERGY STAR Rating

Besides lowering your TV power consumption, there are some crucial steps to achieve additional savings. For instance, choose prepaid electricity plans from Acacia Energy and enjoy your ENERGY STAR certified smart TV for a longer time.

Pay as you go plans let you stay within budget by monitoring your energy usage in real-time.

How to Clear Cloudy Pool Water Fast and Save Heating Costs?

April 20,2021
by dmirza
clear Cloudy Pool Water

A clean pool keeps all corresponding equipment functioning optimally, including your heater. Before learning how to clear cloudy pool water fast, you need to understand what causes this condition.

In fact, the contaminants present within your cloudy pool make it lose heat and increase your heating costs.

Causes for Cloudy Pool Water

Your pool water may reflect a cloudy look due to the factors listed here:

Filtration System

Linking murky pool water to some issue in the filtration process is justifiable as the filter’s role is to clean. When your filter system does not function properly, it fails to effectively capture the contaminants entering your pool. And also increases your electricity costs because the filter has to work overtime.

Environmental Factors

There are many elements that cause an imbalance in the water’s chemistry. Bodily oils, hair, the weather, surrounding landscape, birds, and other creatures contribute to the cloudy aspect.

Pool Chemicals

Excess use of pool chemicals known to have high pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium can make the water cloudy.

How To Clear Cloudy Pool Water Fast?

After investigating the possible causes for your cloudy pool water, resort to the following DIY pool maintenance solutions:

Examine Your Filter

If you have a cartridge filter, soak it for long in a tub containing water mixed with a filter cleaner. Give the cartridge a thorough rinse after a few hours of soaking. When your cartridge filter is over five years old, replace it.

Sand filters need backwashing every fortnight for a few minutes till the murky water turns clear. The lifespan of filter sand is between five to ten years. When you notice dirty water continues to emanate after nearing five minutes of backwashing, it’s time to replace the sand.

Add a Coagulant Pool Water Clarifier

Pool clarifiers provide solutions when debating how to clear cloudy pool water fast.Yet, avoid using them when you have a cartridge filter as the chemicals may clog your filter’s paper pleats. These clarifiers gather tiny particles responsible for making your pool water cloudy and make it easier to filter them out.

Use Pool Flocculants

Again, pool flocculants are not advisable for use when you have a cartridge filter. The flocculant can overnight gather all the contaminants causing cloudy water and make them settle on your pool flooring. Use a pool pump to manually vacuum the unwanted particles after turning on your sand filter’s backwash or waste setting.

Vacuum the Waste

Another DIY pool maintenance trick is to invert your manual vacuum cleaner and create a vacuum at the pool’s base. This allows your pool filter to pull dirty water from the pool’s floor and release filtered water on top. Your pool water now looks clear as the cloudy cover disappears.

Cut back on costs to keep your pool functional by choosing an electricity plan that works for you. Affordable residential plans available on the Shop Texas Electricity platform help save heating costs.

Save More Energy When Working from a Home Office: Learn How

April 16,2021
by dmirza
energy efficiency working from home

Using your home as an office for extended hours can increase your energy consumption. Yet, you can accomplish energy efficiency working from home by following some practical methods. Your energy usage has a direct impact on the electricity bills you pay each month.

Creating an energy-efficient home office allows you to keep your monthly utility expenses in control. Working from home saves you the hassle of commuting long distances and cuts down your fuel expenditure. Saving more energy while operating from your home need not interfere with your comfort and productivity.

Make Energy Efficiency Working From Home a Reality

The residential demand for electricity is high, with more professionals working from the confines of their homes. Although it offers many conveniences, you can’t ignore the electricity you consume during working hours.

Without an energy-efficient home office space, you have to suffer the consequences of inflated utility bills. Here are feasible steps that contribute to saving energy in your home office set-up:

Work On Energy-Efficient Laptops

For work purposes, opt for an energy-efficient laptop rather than a desktop computer. Laptops support you while you strive to achieve energy efficiency working from home.

When compared to desktops, laptops use almost 80%less energy. In fact, computers reflecting an Energy Star label utilize around 25% to 40% less energy than conventional desktops or laptops.

Activate Power Saving Mode

Activating your electronic device’s power-saving mode helps cut electricity usage. You can potentially save almost $100 annually on energy costs by executing this step.

If your office has provided you with an official laptop, consult your IT team. They will be in a position to activate features that require administrative access. Also, desktops with blank screens continue to consume electricity when connected to a power supply.

Invest in Smart Power Strips

You probably depend on many electronic gadgets that consume electricity even on standby mode. Energy efficiency working from home is possible when these energy vampires are turned off.

Smart power strips can help by monitoring devices and automatically switching off those that are inactive. Connecting your work-related electronic devices to your power strip guarantees energy savings.

Switch to Energy-Efficient Light Fixtures

Energy-efficient light bulbs like LEDs and CFLs consume less energy. They live longer than their traditional counterparts. The light these fixtures emit allows you to focus on work without straining your eyes, keeping your vision intact.

It is advisable to switch over to an affordable electricity plan considering working from home is the norm today. Browse the Shop Texas Electricity website and explore more options that keep your outgoings in check.

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