The energy that we use in our homes pollutes the environment and reduces the availability of energy in the future. Luckily, changing this situation is not difficult. Here you can learn about why you should try to save energy, and easy ways that you can do so.

A large portion of Hong Kong's electricity and gas supplies come from non-renewable fossil fuels such as coal and oil; once these fuels are used we cannot replace them. Burning fossil fuels also creates pollution, which not only affects us here in Hong Kong but is having a growing effect on the complex control mechanisms that regulate the earth's climate. So by reducing energy use at home you can help to protect the environment everywhere.

You do not have to reduce your standard of living when reducing your energy consumption – you only have to think a little about how you can use them more wisely.

Lighting

Lighting accounts for around 15-20% of your domestic electricity bill. There are simple ways to reduce energy use in lighting without having to grope in the dark.

• Switch lighting on only when you need it.
• Use daylight whenever possible.
• When buying new lighting, consider choosing compact fluorescent bulbs, which use 75% less energy than standard bulbs for the same amount of illumination.
• Place your lighting carefully where you need it.
• Use dimmers where possible (except for fluorescent lamps and compact fluorescent bulbs).
• Use non-opaque, light-coloured lamp shades.
• Keep light fixtures and lamps clean to maximise their efficiency.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is another major form of energy consumption in your home, but there are ways in which you can use it more wisely.

• When buying an air-conditioner, check its Energy Efficiency Ratio, with lower numbers denoting better efficiency.
• Avoid installing air-conditioners where they will be exposed to direct sunlight.
• Close off areas that do not require air-conditioning, and turn air-conditioners off in unoccupied rooms.
• Keep windows and doors shut when the air-conditioner is running.
• Place weather strips on doors and windows to prevent the leakage of cool air.
• Clean or replace the filters in all air-conditioners at the beginning of summer, and clean them every two weeks from then on.
• Set the temperature to an energy-efficient level so that you will feel comfortable rather than cold.
• Use fans instead of air-conditioning whenever possible.

Cooking

When cooking and heating water with gas, there are a few simple tips that can help you save energy.

• Choose a cooker or oven of a suitable size for your family needs.
• A multi-jet cooker or oven offers you more flexibility, and can minimise wastage.
• Adjust the flame to fit the bottom of your pan.
• Cook several dishes in one session when using an oven.
• Use the simmer burner rather than the oven to reheat food.
• Use your grill to its full capacity rather than cooking one item at a time.
• Always put the lids on pans to trap heat.
• Boil only as much water as you need.
• Steaming and stir-frying is an energy-efficient way of cooking.
• Turn your oven or ring off before you have finished cooking, and let the remaining heat gently finish the job.
• Check your oven door seal for heat leakage, and replace it if necessary.

Water Heating

• If you take a shower instead of a bath you will save about 50% in heating costs.
• A low-flow shower head also saves water and heating energy.
• Only use hot water when necessary.
• When not using your water heater, switch off the pilot light.
• Have your water heater inspected from time to time as recommended on the unit's label to ensure its efficiency and safety.

Water Use and Energy Savings

You can also reduce energy use in other ways when using water. Just remember that energy is used to transport, store and treat all water in Hong Kong.

• More on saving electricity
  http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/how_help/tips_savearth/save_energy_2.html
• More on saving water tips
  http://www.gov.hk/en/residents/environment/public/green/tipsavewater.htm