A watt is a measure of power, and it’s smaller than a kilowatt. The latter, abbreviated as kW and named after Scottish inventor James Watt, is one thousand watts. For example, if you power a 100-watt bulb for 10 hours, you use 1,000-watt-hours of electricity equal to 1 kilowatt-hour of electricity usage. A kilowatt-hour (kWh) is equal to 1 thousand watt-hours of electricity used over 1 hour.
Why the Difference Matters
The main difference between the kilowatt and the kilowatt-hour is that the former measures the power while the kilowatt-hour measures the energy used. Utility companies usually charge homeowners and businesses in kilowatt-hours.
Tips for Managing Energy Usage
Do you want to save energy at home? Small changes may only save a little energy, but they add up to significant savings over time. Below are helpful tips for managing energy usage at home.
- Clean HVAC Filters
The heating or cooling system works efficiently when filters are clean. They don’t work as hard, helping you conserve energy.
- Use the Washer on Full Loads
Most washers run optimally in full load. This also means you run the appliance less often, helping you conserve energy and save money. Consider using cold water when washing to increase your savings. Additionally, avoid using the dryer, and air-dry your clothes instead.
- Turn Off Appliances and Electronic Devices
If you’re not using the TV or the computer, turn them off to avoid wasting electricity and shortening their service life. Chargers plugged in (but not in use) can also waste power. This can add up to more energy waste, costing you more money.
- Switch to Energy-Efficient Appliances
If your appliances are old and no longer efficient, consider switching to energy-efficient water heaters, furnaces, dishwashers or washers. Make sure your heating and cooling systems are the right size. Don’t purchase a small AC to cool a big room or your appliance will use a lot of energy.
- Use a Toaster or Microwave
We don’t recommend a conventional oven for heating leftovers as it uses more energy than a microwave. Note that you can also cook other dishes with a microwave, and it’s a more energy-efficient option.
Contact Aneva Solar
Do you want to lower your energy bills? Making changes to how you use electricity at home can help. Switching to solar energy can help you save more money. Contact us today, so we can do a thorough roof evaluation and determine if installing solar panels is right for you. Schedule a free consultation today.