In the cold season, the use of familiar appliances increases, such as heaters and water heaters, as well as other essential products like tumble dryers that shorten drying time, generators that provide backup during power outages, and dehumidifiers that prevent moisture and mold buildup in the house.
With the increased use of electrical appliances comes a significant increase in the electricity bill. So, how can you save on your electricity bill? Here are some useful tips. Aryeh Ashkenazi, Beko Israel Service Manager, shares important and simple tips that you can implement easily:
Economical Use of Tumble Dryers:
First, try to take advantage of sunny days to dry towels on a clothesline. As you know, towels require more drying time, so they need longer use of the tumble dryer compared to clothes. Also, make sure to clean the tumble dryer filter after every use. If you don't, energy consumption will be higher due to poor airflow and wear of additional components that burden the heating element. Simply remove the filter, wash it with water, and return it after it's completely dry. Additionally, use the energy-saving program and ensure the dryer is full according to the weight limit for each program.
Energy-Saving Programs on Washing Machines:
If possible, use the energy-saving program at 30 degrees when washing delicate clothes. The main electricity consumption when operating a washing machine is due to heating the water. Therefore, washing clothes at 30 degrees will save significantly on electricity. In general, it is best to operate the washing machine only when it's full, but if you plan to wash individual items, you can choose a quick program if possible.
Oven:
To save energy, it is recommended to preheat the oven and set baking times that match the baked goods. Choose the appropriate program based on the food or pastry required and make sure that the oven door and the seal around the baking compartment are intact and functioning.
Dishwasher:
To reduce both electricity and water consumption, only operate the dishwasher when it's full and make sure to choose an energy-saving program. Most modern dishwashers have Eco programs or options that allow half-load operation. Believe it or not, the results are impressive! Reducing the frequency of its use will help save on expenses. There are also products like rinse aid that help with drying the dishes and dishwasher salt that prevents cloudy dishes.
Prepare Accordingly:
As winter approaches, it's important to prepare for the tough weather ahead. During the rainy and stormy seasons, power outages may occur, leading to interruptions in electricity supply and disrupting our daily lives. Additionally, the escalation in the north and the concern about Iran actively joining the conflict contribute to fears of a "blackout scenario."
The reference scenario presents power outages lasting from several hours up to 48 hours, and some warn of an even more extreme scenario. This is all due to damage to strategic sites in the electricity production and/or supply system. These products will not only help you deal with the winter but will also help you save on electricity consumption.
Power Station:
A portable power station offers a flexible and efficient solution that allows for immediate electricity supply in emergencies or power outages. In an era where dependence on technology and electricity is growing, the need for a portable power station is becoming critical, especially for families, businesses, and public institutions that need continuous and safe electricity supply.
Tumble Dryer:
Another challenge in winter is drying laundry. During the winter, we deal with dampness and the difficulty of drying laundry, which can develop unpleasant moldy smells. Therefore, winter is the season when the tumble dryer works overtime in every home.
Humidifier:
The humidifier is designed to help us cope with the dry air during the winter. Heating homes with air conditioners and space heaters causes the air to dry, which makes breathing difficult, especially for small children, but not only.
Generators:
Winter is often characterized by power outages, so it’s wise to prepare for them in advance. Many Israelis have also purchased generators over the past year due to the war and the understandable fear of blackout scenarios.
When to Use a Generator?
- Power supply during power outages
- Use at outdoor events such as camping, trips, parties, outdoor events
- Operation of essential home appliances as backup for the main electricity system
- Small businesses that need electricity in outdoor locations without access to electricity (e.g., children's party hosts)