Tech Directions - September 2007 - (Page 31)

In addition, they help keep homes cooler in the summer since they generate less heat than incandescents. For example, ten 23 W compact fluorescent bulbs used in place of ten 100 W incandescent bulbs will produce the same amount of light and save 2,248 kWh per year. The simple calculation shown below demonstrates the amount of energy savings (ES) you could realize annually by replacing 100 W incandescent bulbs with 23 W fluorescent bulbs: ES = N × (PWE - PWP) × H C Where N = number of fixtures [10] PWE = power rating of existing fixtures [100 W] PWP = power rating of proposed fixtures [23] H = h × 365, annual operating hours [8 × 365] C = conversion constant [1,000 W/kW] ES = 10 × (100 - 23) × 2,920 1,000 = 2,248 kWh So, by replacing the 100 W bulbs with 23 W bulbs, you will save 2,248 kWh of energy. You can figure your energy cost savings (ECS) by: ECS = ES × UC Where UC = usage cost for electricity [approximately $0.06 per kWh] ECS = 2,248 × 0.06 ECS = $134.88 per year cally changes room temperature will definitely affect your electric bill! Adjust the thermostat so that you will feel comfortable—usually 68° F during the day and 55° F at night during the winter months. During summer months, set your thermostat at no lower than 76° F during day and no lower that 72° F at night. Have your furnace checked by a professional every year before the start of heating season. A professional will keep your furnace operating efficiently, as well as correct potential safety problems. Replace ● Use the short cycle on the dishwasher. ● Set the thermostat on the water heater at 120°F. ● Turn the water heater off when you leave home for more than two days. ● Install a flap valve to prevent hot water from flowing back into the pipes. A pop-off valve can also be added for safety. Final Thoughts The activities described here show students how much energy Heating 76° 75° 74° 73° 72° 71° 70° 69° 68° 67° 66° 65° 64° +34% +28% +22% +15% +10% Normal +5% 0% –5% –10% –15% –22% –28% –34% Cooling 76° 75° 74° 73° 72° 71° 70° 69° 68° 67° 66° 65° 64° –51% –40% –31% –24% –16% Normal –8% 0% +8% +18% +28% +39% +50% +63% Fig. 2—Percentage saving for winter/ heating thermostat adjustment the filters as recommended by the manufacturer. Figures 2 and 3 show typical savings that result from adjusting the thermostat for typical heating and air conditioning units. Following these simple rules, your savings will be considerable. Fig. 3— Percentage saving for summer/cooling thermostat adjustment they can save by following simple tips like carefully setting thermostats, using fluorescent bulbs, properly using water heaters and washing machines, and so forth. We encourage students to implement these tips at home and to then observe how much energy and money they save. Finally, we remind students that energy saved today can benefit us immensely in future. Adjusting Thermostat Settings Lights are not the only source of energy consumption. In general, we actually get even greater energy saving by systematically regulating home thermostats. In southern Louisiana, we see air conditioners in every home, and in the northern area of the country all homes have furnaces. We all set the thermostat’s temperature based on the weather conditions. Setting the thermostat in a way that dramati- Water-Heating Energy-Saving Tips You can also reduce energy usage involved in heating water by observing these guidelines: ● Use less hot water. Wash clothes and run the garbage disposal using cold water. ● Take showers instead of baths. For ready-to-use lesson plans based on this article, go to www.techdirections.com/ projectsE.html and select Energy Conservation. Only $6.95! www.techdirections.com POWER & ENERGY 31 http://www.techdirections.com/projectsE.html http://www.techdirections.com/projectsE.html http://www.techdirections.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Tech Directions - September 2007

Technically Speaking Contents Direct from Washington The News Report Technology’s Past Technology Today Mastering Computers Dome, Sweet Dome—Geodesic Structures Teach Math, Science, and Technology Principles Help Students Become Wise Energy Consumers How Does FERPA Affect You? Camera Operator and Videographer e-gallery Product Central Free for the Asking More than Fun

Tech Directions - September 2007

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