Professor Dennis Y C Leung, The University of Hong Kong
Research project related to the environment where energy can be saved by implementing simple measures and good practices at homes, which are typically neglected by households. In this project, energy consumption behaviours of more than 3000 households were investigated. Energy and fuel saving tips are recommended that may save 20 to 30% of fuel and electricity charges.
We use a large amount of energy in our homes every day such as using town gas for cooking, and electricity for air-conditioning and lighting. Energy will be wasted due to some non-trivial habits such as the use of air-conditioner in a room but wearing a lot of clothes due to low temperature. A lot of energy can be saved, by implementing simple measures and good practices in homes, such as increasing the temperature set point of the air-conditioner, seal the gaps of doors and windows etc. A survey of more than 3000 households indicated that applying energy saving measures in homes may save 20 to 30% of fuel and electricity charges. It is estimated that if every household in Hong Kong implements energy saving measures in their homes, we can reduce 1.6 million tonnes of CO2 emission in Hong Kong.
Eighteen energy saving tips are recommended in this project as follows:
- Use more efficient light bulbs or compact fluorescent lamps to replace incandescent light bulbs.
- Switch off all the lights when leaving home or when they will not use for a long period.
- Better use of window blinds to control light and temperature in a room to save electricity for lighting and ventilation.
- Use an electric fan instead of an air-conditioner (e.g. switch off air-conditioner at least half an hour before leaving home and change to the use of a fan).
- Do not use the stove or electric heater to heat the home if there are only one or two persons at home. Use hot water bag instead.
- Set the thermostat to above 25°C when using air-conditioner during hot weather.
- Close all the windows and doors when using air conditioner or dehumidifier.
- Do not use a dehumidifier when the humidity is lower than 80%.
- Use natural sunlight instead of using an electric dryer for drying clothes.
- Select those electric appliances with efficient energy labels.
- Switch off all the electric appliances when not in use (even those in standby mode).
- Always use the energy saving mode when using a computer or electric appliances.
- Maintain and clean electric appliances (such as air-conditioner) regularly; that can reduce electricity consumption and increase their lives.
- Use rechargeable battery instead of un-rechargeable one.
- Use towel or broom to clean room as far as possible instead of using vacuum cleaners that are high energy consumers.
- Use steaming instead of deep frying for cooking.
- Use a microwave oven or vacuum cooker for heating or cooking food.
- Adjust a lower temperature for water heater (below 40°C).
Contact:
- ycleung@hku.hk
- Tel: 2859 7911
