Spring begins as an ideal phase to sustainably reduce energy consumption and household costs. Rising temperatures make it possible to reduce the heating, while at the same time numerous everyday situations can be optimized.
Reduce heating energy in a targeted manner
As soon as the temperatures become milder, there is no longer any need to heat living spaces intensively. According to the Federal Environment Agency, a room temperature of 18 to 20 degrees is sufficient in many cases, while in less frequented areas even 17 degrees is sufficient. It is important not to fall below the limit of 16 degrees in order to avoid mold formation.
Additional heat can be gained by using the sun’s rays. Open curtains allow light and heat to penetrate, which can be stored in the evening by closed blinds or curtains. Correctly set thermostatic valves also play a central role in energy-efficient control.
Efficient ventilation for a better indoor climate
Leaving a window tilted for several hours usually results in a lot of energy loss. As the energy company EnBW explains, the shock ventilation method is recommended instead. The windows are opened completely for a few minutes several times a day, which ensures a rapid exchange of air without unnecessarily cooling down the room structure.
Particularly in the afternoon, the warmer spring air can be used specifically to warm up interior spaces. Regular air exchange also contributes to a healthy indoor climate and prevents excessive moisture and mold formation.
Keep household appliances in good condition
Calcified or icy household appliances often use significantly more electricity than necessary. According to Haus Magazin, regular descaling of devices such as kettles, coffee machines or washing machines increases their efficiency and reduces energy consumption – even in spring. Regular maintenance is also crucial for refrigerators and freezers. Even thin layers of ice significantly increase the power requirement. A significant saving effect can be achieved by simply defrosting – ideally before the hot summer days.
Drying with solar power
The sunny and windy spring days offer optimal conditions for drying laundry outdoors. This not only reduces energy consumption, but also protects the textile fibers. The tumble dryer can often be dispensed with entirely during these times of the year. In addition, the humidity indoors is not increased, which in turn reduces the risk of mold formation.
Use hot water consciously
The consumption of hot water is one of the largest energy items in the household. As EnBW highlights, savings of up to 50 percent can be achieved by using modern energy-saving shower heads. A lower shower temperature and shorter shower times also help reduce energy consumption, a tip that makes sense in every season.
Many hot water tanks also have economical summer operation, in which the water is heated to a lower temperature. This is completely sufficient for numerous applications, especially when temperatures continue to rise again.
Avoid hidden power guzzlers
Electronic devices in standby mode continuously consume energy, even when they are not being actively used. By completely switching off televisions, routers or coffee machines, for example using switchable power strips, noticeable cost savings can be achieved every year. This measure does not require a lot of effort, but contributes significantly to reducing electricity consumption – whether in spring, summer, autumn or winter.
Editorial team finanzen.net
Image sources: Africa Studio / Shutterstock.com, Sascha Preussner / Shutterstock.com
