Myth Busters
"Rather than switching them on and off, fluorescent bulbs use less energy left on"
Myth - It is certainly true that in their start-up phase, they use a lot more energy than when they are running continuously, so it is not good advice to keep switching them on and off. But if you are going out of a room for a short time, how long should you be away before it makes more sense to switch the light off, rather than leave it on?
The answer may surprise many people. Although it depends on several factors, including whether it has an electric or mechanical (condenser) starter, the period is generally in the region of a minute and a half, and never more than 5 minutes.
The National Energy Foundation 08
"Switching computers and screens on and off damages them and reduces their life. Screensavers save energy"
Myth - Leaving office equipment on for long periods of time such as over night or weekends reduces their capacity. By switching your monitor off you will save at least 70% of the energy costs of your computer. PC screen consumption can often represent a third of electricity consumption in an office. Most the energy is given off as heat, which in turn means more work for air conditioning units or fans.
Warwickshire Energy Efficiency Advice Centre
"It's wisest to leave your immersion heater on 24 hours a day"
Myth - It is always best to place the water heating on a timer, as the energy lost from a hot water tank depends on the temperature difference between the surface of the tank and its surroundings. However if the tank is highly insulated and there is an effective thermostat on the tank, then the losses through leaving it on can be reduced, in some cases people have a need for large quantities of hot water all day long, in which case they may have no alternative to leaving the immersion heater on. But in general, it is much better to install a timer.
The National Energy Foundation 08
"Energy saving light bulbs take a long time to turn on"
Myth - There have been improvements in technology allowing instant start up, and warmer tones from the ligt itself which avoid harsh white light traditionally associated with these bulbs.
Energy Saving Trust
"Energy saving lightbulbs are too big and bulky to really be an option"
Myth - Energy saving bulbs have improved considerably over the years and you can now get ones that look just like their non efficient counterparts. In addition to look alike products they also come in stick, candles and halogen options.
Energy Saving Trust
For further information, please contact us by emailing climatechange@warwickshire.gov.uk