Monday 15 December 2008
OVERLOAD
The Power Sector all over the world is crippled with insufficient generation, pitiable transmission and distribution network, mis use and theft. New consumers are supplemented to the net work day by day making the system further frail. The generation remains almost constant and its gap between demand is diverging. The revenue scenario is also in a disorganized condition since the entire process in controlled by the regulatory regime
The fiction 'OVERLOAD' written by Sir Arther Hailey, way back, is a true reflection of the pathetic situation of power sector all over the world. The novel begins with the challenging role of the Public Relations Manager of the utility, ‘Golden State & Power’. It clearly describes the role of managers at load dispatch centre, who usually act as trapezium managers, during peak hours in under developed countries; even after imposing various system restrictions like blackout and brownouts, to avoid total shutdown. Though written years back, its significance is still immense. The book is written in simple language, but knowledge of technical terms of power sector would be an added advantage to digest the ingredients ,appearing through out the book.
Thursday 2 October 2008
Simple steps, big savings
Here are tips to help us in these times of shooting power costs.
SIMPLE SOLUTION: One simple way of saving electricity will be to remember to turn the switches off.
With power cut and a thermal surcharge in place, electricity consumers are scurrying for tips to save power and optimise energy use.
From energy audits to sparing the use of the electric iron, consumers leave nothing unattended to save electricity because family budgets and corporate budgets threaten to go haywire in the middle of the financial year.
The most important question now being asked is, Can we enjoy a better lifestyle with much-reduced consumption of electricity? G. Sreenivasan, Public Relations Officer, Kerala State Electricity Board asked this in his blog on World Energy Day (http://meet-tamperfinder. blogspot.com/2007/12/ december14- world-energy-day.html).
If sufficient attention is given to the design of the house, use of artificial lighting can be controlled. Windows and ventilators should be placed in such a way to maximise the use of natural light. If the placing of the windows and other openings are right, no artificial lighting will be needed during the daytime.
In the same way, use of the right paints can enhance the light effect. Lampshades should be cleaned regularly.
Lighting equipment, fans and refrigerators are the key items used in a middle-class family which account for the bulk of the power consumption.
The ordinary incandescent bulb is the major culprit in electricity wastage. Only five per cent of the power drawn by an electric bulb is converted into light.
The fluorescent lamp is a better source of light and gives 50 times more light than an ordinary bulb of the same wattage can. Using electronic chokes increases its efficiency.
Compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) are more energy efficient than fluorescent lamps, but they should be avoided in study rooms and laboratories where the strain on the eyes have to be taken into consideration. In a broad and spacious dining room, one or two CFLs of 12 watts each will be sufficient. The CFLs are recommended for the kitchen where light has to be on for five to six hours, portico, TV room, prayer room and so on. In short, a CFL gives the same light as that of an ordinary bulb with only 15 per cent of the latter’s energy consumption.
Use task-lighting rather than whole room lighting when a small amount of light is required. The best way to control power consumption is to switch off the lights when no one is in the room. It is estimated that 10 per cent of the average home expenditure on power can be controlled by switching off lights that are not needed.
The myth of the ‘zero-watt’ bulb has to be busted. If a so-called zero-watt bulb is on for 24 hours a day, as in most cases it is, it consumes seven to 10 units of power a month.
Using electronic regulators can help reduce power consumption in running fans. Old fans may need attention.
Cold facts
Refrigerators are the biggest consumers of power in an ordinary home. An ordinary single-door 165-litre refrigerator requires between 30 and 35 units of power a month and a 10-year-old refrigerator will consume one-and-a-half times more power than that.
Use of the refrigerator has to be regulated. Open them only when needed. Keep the doors closed properly. Repair them regularly and replace old refrigerators. When moving out of station for more than a day or two, keep the refrigerator off.
One straight way is to ensure buying an energy-efficient refrigerator as about 40 per cent of the power consumption in a middle-class family is attributed to the refrigerator.
Use of electric irons as and when one requires leads to electricity wastage. Ironing all the clothes at a time can save a lot of power. Turn off the plug switches of television sets and DVD players instead of using only the remote to put off the equipment. Unplug appliances that are not in use.
Using the washing machine in a planned manner can save power. For example, load the machines so as to use its optimum capacity. The instructions on maintaining the water level should be followed to optimise power consumption.
The computer monitors can be switched off when listening to music on the computer so that power can be saved.
Old wirings and leakages are other culprits that cause loss of electricity. These have to be attended to on a regular basis.
(Courtesy “The Hindu”)
Wednesday 27 August 2008
Attendance ചെക്കിംഗ്
Animal's class room
Teacher is verifying the attendance..............
Silence...Silence......
Anwser yr names.....
Lion...........grrrrrrrrrrrr present sir
Elephant................present sir..
Cat...................memememem present sir
Dog ..................bowbowbow...present sir
Tiger..................grgrgrgrgr....present sir
monkey......monkey....where is monkey?
Stop reading the blog and answer.
Teacher is verifying the attendance..............
Silence...Silence......
Anwser yr names.....
Lion...........grrrrrrrrrrrr present sir
Elephant................present sir..
Cat...................memememem present sir
Dog ..................bowbowbow...present sir
Tiger..................grgrgrgrgr....present sir
monkey......monkey....where is monkey?
Stop reading the blog and answer.
Wednesday 20 August 2008
God's Own Utility
God’s own utility.
August 13
It was 11.30pm.
Philips TV in On.
It is pitch dark outside.
Tamperfinder is penning few words, referring books here and there.
The nation is going to celebrate its 62nd independence day within two days, but Tamperfinder has lost all freedom and moving restlessly.
He cursed all, even the adored scientists who invented electricity.
He is burning midnight oil to present a case, of power theft, detected few years back.
He is referring few technical and law books.
Nothing emerged to his mind……. Nothing is remaining there…………..
He earnestly hoped that, had he been provided with some more brain, he could have remembered all these figures and presented effectively before any forum.
That’s why he decided to buy some more brain to store additional data for next day’s case.
He soon moved to the city market where everything except the original mother is available for sale.
Found few street vendors trading brains of various types.
“How much does it cost for engineer’s brain?” The brainless tamperfinder asked.
“It’s Rs100/gram”.,the shopkeeper replied without raising his head, as he knew, now a days no body turn up for purchasing this item as it’s available plenty in God’s own country.
“Ok, How much you charge for a lawyer’s brain?” for that only tamperfinder made this journey.
“It’s is Rs 1000/gram”.
“Why it’s so much? Any reduction?”
“Do you know how many lawyers we had to kill to get a gram of brain?”
???
August 14
Tamperfinder reached the lawyer’s office sufficiently early to discuss the case.
“No parking near roadside” go……… goggo……… go……A police constable shouted against tamper finder’s driver, muttering something else, that might have escaped from the hands of Sir Herman Gundert,while he compiled the Dictionary.
The office remained closed till 10.30AM. And finally the lawyer arrived.
A beautiful, stylish elegant lady of mid thirties.
He forgot all the hardship for waiting. (Hardship never goes uncredited !!!)
She preferred to discuss another case first, of a woman client, who came from a village far away.
Ok…Ladies first?
Tamperfinder waited patiently beside them, hearing their discussion.
Her client is preparing for her 4th marriage, as understood from their discussion.
“What happened to your previous husbands? “Asked the lawyer lady.
“Madam, my first husband ate poisonous cutlet and died.
Oh… How tragic !! the lady lawyer felt very sad.
There are times when one cannot suppress feelings and emotions, especially the women.
“What happened to your second husband?” the innocent lady continued the enquiry.
“He ate poisonous cutlet, too and died”
“Oh… how terrible and tragic”……..”I’m almost afraid to ask you about your 3rd husband………..”
“He died of a broken neck” she said innocently.
“Broken neck…?”
“Yes, he wouldn’t ate the cutlet”
********************************************************************************
“GLEGLEGLE……” The tongue tied tamperfinder mumbled, not because cutlet is his favorite dish, but the further enquiry of the lawyer to ascertain what actually happened.
Moral
Street vendors and village woman always speak truth.
.
Wednesday 6 August 2008
Why women R so special.......?
Subject: Why Women R so Special..... ......... .
Why Women R so Special..... ......... .
Mum and Dad were watching TV when Mum said, "I'm tired, and it's getting late. I think I'll go to bed."
She went to the kitchen to make sandwiches for the next day's lunches. Rinsed out the popcorn bowls, took meat out of the freezer for supper the following evening, checked the cereal box levels, filled the sugar container, put spoons and bowls on the table and started the coffee pot for rewing the next morning. She then put some wet clothes in the dryer, put a load of clothes into the washer, ironed a shirt and
secured a loose button.
She picked up the game pieces left on the table, put the phone back on the charger and put the telephone book into the drawer. She watered the plants, emptied a wastebasket and hung up a towel to dry. She yawned and stretched and headed for the bedroom. She stopped by the desk and wrote a note to the
teacher, counted out some cash for the excursion and pulled a text book out from hiding under the chair. She signed a birthday card for a friend, addressed and stamped
the envelope and wrote a quick note for the grocery store. She put both near
her bag Mum then washed her face with 3 in 1 cleanser, put on her Night
Solution & age fighting moisturizer, brushed and flossed her teeth and filed
her nails.
Dad called out, "I thought you were going to bed."
"I'm on my way," she said. She put some water into the dog's dish and put
the cat outside, then made sure the doors were locked and the patio light
was on. She looked in on each of the kids and turned out their bedside lamps
and radios, hung up a shirt, threw some dirty socks into the hamper, and had a brief conversation with the one up still doing homework.
In her own room, she set the alarm; laid out clothing for the next day, straightened up the shoe rack. She added three things to her 6 most important things to do list. She said her prayers, and visualized the accomplishment of her goals.
About that time, Dad turned off the TV and announced to no one in particular. "I'm going to bed." And he did...without another thought.
Anything extraordinary here? Wonder why women live longer...?
'CAUSE WE ARE MADE FOR THE LONG HAUL...... (and we can't die
sooner, we still have things to do!!!!)
Send this to five phenomenal women today...they' ll love you for it! Then: GO TO BED!
Forward this to as many men as you can so that they know why women are so
special :)
(Courtesy)
Why Women R so Special..... ......... .
Mum and Dad were watching TV when Mum said, "I'm tired, and it's getting late. I think I'll go to bed."
She went to the kitchen to make sandwiches for the next day's lunches. Rinsed out the popcorn bowls, took meat out of the freezer for supper the following evening, checked the cereal box levels, filled the sugar container, put spoons and bowls on the table and started the coffee pot for rewing the next morning. She then put some wet clothes in the dryer, put a load of clothes into the washer, ironed a shirt and
secured a loose button.
She picked up the game pieces left on the table, put the phone back on the charger and put the telephone book into the drawer. She watered the plants, emptied a wastebasket and hung up a towel to dry. She yawned and stretched and headed for the bedroom. She stopped by the desk and wrote a note to the
teacher, counted out some cash for the excursion and pulled a text book out from hiding under the chair. She signed a birthday card for a friend, addressed and stamped
the envelope and wrote a quick note for the grocery store. She put both near
her bag Mum then washed her face with 3 in 1 cleanser, put on her Night
Solution & age fighting moisturizer, brushed and flossed her teeth and filed
her nails.
Dad called out, "I thought you were going to bed."
"I'm on my way," she said. She put some water into the dog's dish and put
the cat outside, then made sure the doors were locked and the patio light
was on. She looked in on each of the kids and turned out their bedside lamps
and radios, hung up a shirt, threw some dirty socks into the hamper, and had a brief conversation with the one up still doing homework.
In her own room, she set the alarm; laid out clothing for the next day, straightened up the shoe rack. She added three things to her 6 most important things to do list. She said her prayers, and visualized the accomplishment of her goals.
About that time, Dad turned off the TV and announced to no one in particular. "I'm going to bed." And he did...without another thought.
Anything extraordinary here? Wonder why women live longer...?
'CAUSE WE ARE MADE FOR THE LONG HAUL...... (and we can't die
sooner, we still have things to do!!!!)
Send this to five phenomenal women today...they' ll love you for it! Then: GO TO BED!
Forward this to as many men as you can so that they know why women are so
special :)
(Courtesy)
Saturday 26 July 2008
Why men are so special?
Why men are so special?
The city Trivandrum is growing fastly.A number of new shops and malls are now opened.Recenctly a multi-storeyed shopping complex is opened in MG Road.
This is a special shop.
It sells husbands!!!
When women go to choose a husband at this store, they have to follow few instructions
“You may visit the store only once. There are 6 floors and the value of products increases as u ascent the flights .You may chose any item from a particular store or may go up to next floor ,but cannot go back to down floor except to exit the building.”
Needless to say there is no sales return like onam shopping
So a woman goes to the husband store to find a suitable husband.
On the first floor, the display reads like this ” Floor 1- These men have jobs.’
The second floor sign reads ” These men have jobs and love kids”
The third floor sign board says ” These men have jobs, love kids, and extremely good in cooking’’
She thought of selecting one, but feels compelled to keep going.
So she reached the 4th floor. She can see all city silhouettes there.
The sign board reads “These men have jobs, love kids good cooking and strong romantic line”
What more one needs? She said to herself. But still went up.
Now she could see the top of Power house, Big bazaar etc.
Still not satisfied.
Gone up to the next floor.
Nobody there. There is no man, except a board.
“You are the 156,25,467th visitor this month. The floor exists solely as proof that women are impossible to please!!!!!
Another board is put up there “Thank u for visiting the mall”
There was huge cry over this shop for alleging gender bias charges.
So the management started a’ wives’ store just across the road.
This is also a multi-storeyed buiding.having 6 floors.
1st floor the sign board reads ” The wives who are beautiful”
The second floor reads “The wives who speak little’’
3rs floor sign board says ” The wives who speak little, beautiful and have money’’
The 4th to 6th floors have never been visited so far!!!!
The city Trivandrum is growing fastly.A number of new shops and malls are now opened.Recenctly a multi-storeyed shopping complex is opened in MG Road.
This is a special shop.
It sells husbands!!!
When women go to choose a husband at this store, they have to follow few instructions
“You may visit the store only once. There are 6 floors and the value of products increases as u ascent the flights .You may chose any item from a particular store or may go up to next floor ,but cannot go back to down floor except to exit the building.”
Needless to say there is no sales return like onam shopping
So a woman goes to the husband store to find a suitable husband.
On the first floor, the display reads like this ” Floor 1- These men have jobs.’
The second floor sign reads ” These men have jobs and love kids”
The third floor sign board says ” These men have jobs, love kids, and extremely good in cooking’’
She thought of selecting one, but feels compelled to keep going.
So she reached the 4th floor. She can see all city silhouettes there.
The sign board reads “These men have jobs, love kids good cooking and strong romantic line”
What more one needs? She said to herself. But still went up.
Now she could see the top of Power house, Big bazaar etc.
Still not satisfied.
Gone up to the next floor.
Nobody there. There is no man, except a board.
“You are the 156,25,467th visitor this month. The floor exists solely as proof that women are impossible to please!!!!!
Another board is put up there “Thank u for visiting the mall”
There was huge cry over this shop for alleging gender bias charges.
So the management started a’ wives’ store just across the road.
This is also a multi-storeyed buiding.having 6 floors.
1st floor the sign board reads ” The wives who are beautiful”
The second floor reads “The wives who speak little’’
3rs floor sign board says ” The wives who speak little, beautiful and have money’’
The 4th to 6th floors have never been visited so far!!!!
Friday 14 December 2007
December14- World Energy Day
December-14 World Energy Day
The importance of electricity in present day life needs no explanation. For living, entertainment, learning, and what not, electricity plays a vital role. We cannot even think of a moment without electricity, especially for the city dweller. All are worried about the escalating electricity charges. But how many are aware of the optimum utilisation of the domestic appliances? Can we enjoy a better life style with much reduced consumption of electricity? Are there leakages of your hard earned money as current charges without adequate returns? Do you feel that your electricity bill does not commensurate with total appliance used and the level of comfort enjoyed? ? Is your family budget affected by the power tariff? If the answer to any of the above questions is “yes,” you urgently need “Energy Audit’”. The term Audit brings to our mind the commercial audit in our office to find out any irregularity committed. The energy audit is also used in a similar way. This is a scientific method to find out and avoid waste of energy, to ensure better utilisation of available resources, there by increasing profit. In this fast modern life, even an educated housewife (house executive!) seldom bothers to explore avenues to reduce the electricity charges. Here are some useful tips that can be tested easily at home and would give amazing results.
What is one “unit “of electricity? The Power consumption is measured by the unit ‘kilowatt-hour’ or simply the “unit”. It is the energy consumed by an equipment having a rating of 1000watts when used for 1 hour (or a 100watts appliance for 10hrs.The tariff for domestic and others are different in all parts of the world.. The commercial consumers are charged highest whereas the agricultures the least.
The three major current consuming devices in a middle class family are Lighting, fans, and refrigerator.
1. Domestic lighting
A major portion of domestic consumption of electricity goes to meet the lighting .A well-designed house would look shabby if not pragmatically and functionally illuminated. The main source of light in our home is the ordinary bulb, unfortunately happens to be the main culprit in wastage of electricity. Only 5% of the electricity used by the bulb is converted to useful light and the majority to heat. This bulb has not varied much from the original one as envisaged by Edison! This has the least efficiency .The only merit is the low initial investment. The average life span is about 100 burning hrs.
Fluorescent lamp is a much better source of light, which would give more than 50 times more light in comparison with an ordinary bulb of same wattage. The ballast used along with a tube light would consume another 20watts. (We can experience heating of this choke when in use) For better illumination and life, electronic chokes (consumes 2-watts only) are now a days widely used .Of all type of lights, this one is the most pleasing and can be used anywhere in a house. In work area and storeroom, tube light of 20 watts (2’) is sufficient. The average life span is about 8000 burning hrs.
Compact Fluorescent light, popularly known CFL would give more light with much reduced electric consumption. But this type of lamp should be avoided in study room, laboratory etc where strains on eyes are also to be considered. In a broad and spacious dining room, one or two CFL of 12watts would be sufficient. CFL is recommended for in kitchen where the light has to be switched on for 5-6 hrs. Here the rating of 18 watts is good. CFL is also recommended for portico, TV room, prayer room, etc. In short, a CFL would give the same light as that of an ordinary bulb with only 15% of energy consumption and recommended for lighting of long span. (i. e. when lights are to be kept on for long periods say 2 hrs or more) The life span is about 15000 hrs. Use task lighting rather than whole room lighting when a small amount of light is required .The best way to control is to turn off light when no one is in room. 10% of average home’s electricity cost can be controlled with the flip of a switch.
In many houses, there are decorating lamps, serial sets or ” zero watt” bulbs displayed on photos. These are lighted through out the day and night. Remember, there is no zero watt bulb. It’s only a pet name given to low wattage bulbs. Though looks harmless, the longer duration of operation -–usually 24 hrs of the day--may cause damage to our pocket.For.eg, a single “zero watt bulb” displayed on a photo would consume 7-10 units/month. If 5 such bulbs are used, it may consume 30 units/month. So is the case of aquarium lamps, which would consume about 15 units a month if used throughout the day. Hence such bulbs may be switched off when no one is in room or when go to bed.
At the time of finalising the plan and sketch of a building, there should be clear idea about the lights inside. The location of window and ventilator should be such as to maximize the utilisation of natural light. (E.g. ventilator opposite to a door would give enhanced light rather than just above the door!) The plan should be such that no artificial lighting would be needed during daytime. The colour selection of inside wall, ceiling, curtain etc should never be dark. The location of light should be about 2-2 1/2 Mts. above from ground for better results. The shades of lamp and reflectors should invariably be cleaned once in a month and feel the difference.
2.Fan
A ceiling fan in operation thro’out night in bedroom will gobble up 22 units in a month. There is a wrong notion that fan at more speed would consume more current. Fan running at slow speed would waste energy as heat in the regulator .The ordinary regulator would take 20 watts extra at low speed. (If we use 5 fans in a house, it as good as using another 100w bulb also!)The energy loss can be compensated by using electronic regulator. Old fans when in use produce unwanted noise. This may either be due to faulty bearing or loose top, which need attention.
3. Refrigerator
Domestic fridges are the cause of waste of electricity in majority of houses. An ordinary single door 165 lts fridge would consume 30-35 units a month .10 years or older fridge would consume 1 1/2 times more energy and require immediate renovation or replacement. Fridges with glass wool or PUF (Poly Eurethene Foam) are not showing any significant reduction in consumption over a period of time. But frost-free refrigerators consume more energy. A 250lts frost-free refrigerator would consume 90-100units a month. If the fridge is not closed properly, the temperature inside may increase and make the compressor work more. Hence open the doors only when required and keep them open as briefly as possible. There is a simple method to detect the improper closing of door. Place a lighted torch inside the fridge and close it as usual. If the light of the torch is visible from outside it can be understood that the closing of door is improper. The rubber beeding or the door sealing needs immediate replacement. Hot food items, after cooling only, should be put inside. When moving out of station for 1-2 days, it is better to switch off the fridge. But switching off during every night time is not recommended as it would reduce only 15% of consumption. Overloading of fridge also consume more energy. In a middle class family, of total consumption of about 200units a month, 40% of it is attributed to the fridge alone. Hence, while purchasing, only energy efficient refrigerator may be considered and very old and noisy fridges are to be replaced or renovated.
4. Electric Iron
Before going to office, the chief of family irons his pants and shirt, after a while the eldest child irons his uniform followed by the next one at his habitual time. The housewife does the same at her own leisure time. Each time electricity is wasted considerably. A practice has to be cultivated in family to iron all the cloths once in week. This would save not only electricity but also time during rush periods.
5. Television &DVD
Television has adversely affected our culture and caused deterioration in our social life. There are housewives who glance at her favorite serial even while cooking and washing. Even during dinnertime, the TV is on without any audience. Though this has become a part of our culture, it requires some restriction. The practice of ‘viewing the TV when we like’ when changed to’ switching on the TV when we like’ would save a lot of electricity .It may be noted that a 10 hr TV viewing a day cause the current charge to increase by 30 units a month. Turn off TV and DVD at the switch itself rather than just using the remote control. Unplug the appliances that are not used. Most idle appliances like TV, CDplayers etc. continue to consume energy, though very small when switched off by remote.
Luxury items like air conditioner, washing machine, hotplate etc. are current consuming appliances.
6. Air conditioner
It is the size of room, number of occupants etc determine the capacity of the AC. A 1½ tonne AC unit consumes 2-2.5 unit electricity even for one hour! If the air holes are hermetically sealed off, the consumption can be considerably reduced. Higher level of insulation of rooms especially those provided below the roof, reduces the heat entering the house and makes any cooling system more effective and efficient. AC should not be allowed to perform with faulty thermostat as extra energy is required to bring down the temperature.. If the AC is fitted with timer, it would switch off after a particular time and the remaining chill and humidity would be sufficient for a comfortable sleep! . Use fans to create cooling breezes. When planning for a new AC, get one with timer and remote.
7. Washing machine
Loading of dirty linen to washing machine is such that it should fully utilise the capacity. Time as well as power is wasted when we wash small quantity each time. Before applying the drier, see that water is fully drained off and clothes are well spun.. The level of water should be as specified by the manufacturer, the more water the more will be the current consumption.
8. Computer
Computer is not a current intensive unit. It is the monitor which consumes the electricity most. Music lovers listen to the CDs for hours together in multimedia computer. The monitor can very well be switched off at that time or set the computer to sleep after 10 minutes of inactivity.
Among household consumers, another significant loss is due to the leakage of electricity. Old wiring, frail and damaged insulation., leaking concrete and tiles,etc help electricity to flow to earth. The electricity meter doesn’t know whether this is the actual use of the consumer ,but would register it as usual.In some other houses when we touch wall,fridge,grinder,pipeline etc, there will be feeling of numbness. This is a very grave indication of leakage of electricity and popularly known as ‘earth’. This is mainly due to the low-grade wiring materials, nailing on the wall causing injury to insulation, unnatural bend, and persistent presence of moisture. Installing ELCB (earth leakage circuit breaker) will help to detect the leakage to some extend.. An electrical engineer can pin point the origin of the leak
Drawing of multi circuit from a single plug point using adapter would cause loose connection causing the wire to be heated up. This is another source of leakage of electricity. If the tester shows power supply in all the holes of a plug point, it can be presumed that the electricity is wasted there. If the electricity meter is functioning even when all switches are off except the main switch, the leakage can be confirmed.
In short, unneeded illumination, dirty lamps and shades, never-switched off lights, aged fridge, rotating fans in unoccupied rooms, television without any viewers etc are the origin of wastage of electricity. As said in the beginning Energy audit may be conducted from the family itself .The energy meter reading may be taken down every day at a particular time and observe the variation and realise where we spent more.
The importance of electricity in present day life needs no explanation. For living, entertainment, learning, and what not, electricity plays a vital role. We cannot even think of a moment without electricity, especially for the city dweller. All are worried about the escalating electricity charges. But how many are aware of the optimum utilisation of the domestic appliances? Can we enjoy a better life style with much reduced consumption of electricity? Are there leakages of your hard earned money as current charges without adequate returns? Do you feel that your electricity bill does not commensurate with total appliance used and the level of comfort enjoyed? ? Is your family budget affected by the power tariff? If the answer to any of the above questions is “yes,” you urgently need “Energy Audit’”. The term Audit brings to our mind the commercial audit in our office to find out any irregularity committed. The energy audit is also used in a similar way. This is a scientific method to find out and avoid waste of energy, to ensure better utilisation of available resources, there by increasing profit. In this fast modern life, even an educated housewife (house executive!) seldom bothers to explore avenues to reduce the electricity charges. Here are some useful tips that can be tested easily at home and would give amazing results.
What is one “unit “of electricity? The Power consumption is measured by the unit ‘kilowatt-hour’ or simply the “unit”. It is the energy consumed by an equipment having a rating of 1000watts when used for 1 hour (or a 100watts appliance for 10hrs.The tariff for domestic and others are different in all parts of the world.. The commercial consumers are charged highest whereas the agricultures the least.
The three major current consuming devices in a middle class family are Lighting, fans, and refrigerator.
1. Domestic lighting
A major portion of domestic consumption of electricity goes to meet the lighting .A well-designed house would look shabby if not pragmatically and functionally illuminated. The main source of light in our home is the ordinary bulb, unfortunately happens to be the main culprit in wastage of electricity. Only 5% of the electricity used by the bulb is converted to useful light and the majority to heat. This bulb has not varied much from the original one as envisaged by Edison! This has the least efficiency .The only merit is the low initial investment. The average life span is about 100 burning hrs.
Fluorescent lamp is a much better source of light, which would give more than 50 times more light in comparison with an ordinary bulb of same wattage. The ballast used along with a tube light would consume another 20watts. (We can experience heating of this choke when in use) For better illumination and life, electronic chokes (consumes 2-watts only) are now a days widely used .Of all type of lights, this one is the most pleasing and can be used anywhere in a house. In work area and storeroom, tube light of 20 watts (2’) is sufficient. The average life span is about 8000 burning hrs.
Compact Fluorescent light, popularly known CFL would give more light with much reduced electric consumption. But this type of lamp should be avoided in study room, laboratory etc where strains on eyes are also to be considered. In a broad and spacious dining room, one or two CFL of 12watts would be sufficient. CFL is recommended for in kitchen where the light has to be switched on for 5-6 hrs. Here the rating of 18 watts is good. CFL is also recommended for portico, TV room, prayer room, etc. In short, a CFL would give the same light as that of an ordinary bulb with only 15% of energy consumption and recommended for lighting of long span. (i. e. when lights are to be kept on for long periods say 2 hrs or more) The life span is about 15000 hrs. Use task lighting rather than whole room lighting when a small amount of light is required .The best way to control is to turn off light when no one is in room. 10% of average home’s electricity cost can be controlled with the flip of a switch.
In many houses, there are decorating lamps, serial sets or ” zero watt” bulbs displayed on photos. These are lighted through out the day and night. Remember, there is no zero watt bulb. It’s only a pet name given to low wattage bulbs. Though looks harmless, the longer duration of operation -–usually 24 hrs of the day--may cause damage to our pocket.For.eg, a single “zero watt bulb” displayed on a photo would consume 7-10 units/month. If 5 such bulbs are used, it may consume 30 units/month. So is the case of aquarium lamps, which would consume about 15 units a month if used throughout the day. Hence such bulbs may be switched off when no one is in room or when go to bed.
At the time of finalising the plan and sketch of a building, there should be clear idea about the lights inside. The location of window and ventilator should be such as to maximize the utilisation of natural light. (E.g. ventilator opposite to a door would give enhanced light rather than just above the door!) The plan should be such that no artificial lighting would be needed during daytime. The colour selection of inside wall, ceiling, curtain etc should never be dark. The location of light should be about 2-2 1/2 Mts. above from ground for better results. The shades of lamp and reflectors should invariably be cleaned once in a month and feel the difference.
2.Fan
A ceiling fan in operation thro’out night in bedroom will gobble up 22 units in a month. There is a wrong notion that fan at more speed would consume more current. Fan running at slow speed would waste energy as heat in the regulator .The ordinary regulator would take 20 watts extra at low speed. (If we use 5 fans in a house, it as good as using another 100w bulb also!)The energy loss can be compensated by using electronic regulator. Old fans when in use produce unwanted noise. This may either be due to faulty bearing or loose top, which need attention.
3. Refrigerator
Domestic fridges are the cause of waste of electricity in majority of houses. An ordinary single door 165 lts fridge would consume 30-35 units a month .10 years or older fridge would consume 1 1/2 times more energy and require immediate renovation or replacement. Fridges with glass wool or PUF (Poly Eurethene Foam) are not showing any significant reduction in consumption over a period of time. But frost-free refrigerators consume more energy. A 250lts frost-free refrigerator would consume 90-100units a month. If the fridge is not closed properly, the temperature inside may increase and make the compressor work more. Hence open the doors only when required and keep them open as briefly as possible. There is a simple method to detect the improper closing of door. Place a lighted torch inside the fridge and close it as usual. If the light of the torch is visible from outside it can be understood that the closing of door is improper. The rubber beeding or the door sealing needs immediate replacement. Hot food items, after cooling only, should be put inside. When moving out of station for 1-2 days, it is better to switch off the fridge. But switching off during every night time is not recommended as it would reduce only 15% of consumption. Overloading of fridge also consume more energy. In a middle class family, of total consumption of about 200units a month, 40% of it is attributed to the fridge alone. Hence, while purchasing, only energy efficient refrigerator may be considered and very old and noisy fridges are to be replaced or renovated.
4. Electric Iron
Before going to office, the chief of family irons his pants and shirt, after a while the eldest child irons his uniform followed by the next one at his habitual time. The housewife does the same at her own leisure time. Each time electricity is wasted considerably. A practice has to be cultivated in family to iron all the cloths once in week. This would save not only electricity but also time during rush periods.
5. Television &DVD
Television has adversely affected our culture and caused deterioration in our social life. There are housewives who glance at her favorite serial even while cooking and washing. Even during dinnertime, the TV is on without any audience. Though this has become a part of our culture, it requires some restriction. The practice of ‘viewing the TV when we like’ when changed to’ switching on the TV when we like’ would save a lot of electricity .It may be noted that a 10 hr TV viewing a day cause the current charge to increase by 30 units a month. Turn off TV and DVD at the switch itself rather than just using the remote control. Unplug the appliances that are not used. Most idle appliances like TV, CDplayers etc. continue to consume energy, though very small when switched off by remote.
Luxury items like air conditioner, washing machine, hotplate etc. are current consuming appliances.
6. Air conditioner
It is the size of room, number of occupants etc determine the capacity of the AC. A 1½ tonne AC unit consumes 2-2.5 unit electricity even for one hour! If the air holes are hermetically sealed off, the consumption can be considerably reduced. Higher level of insulation of rooms especially those provided below the roof, reduces the heat entering the house and makes any cooling system more effective and efficient. AC should not be allowed to perform with faulty thermostat as extra energy is required to bring down the temperature.. If the AC is fitted with timer, it would switch off after a particular time and the remaining chill and humidity would be sufficient for a comfortable sleep! . Use fans to create cooling breezes. When planning for a new AC, get one with timer and remote.
7. Washing machine
Loading of dirty linen to washing machine is such that it should fully utilise the capacity. Time as well as power is wasted when we wash small quantity each time. Before applying the drier, see that water is fully drained off and clothes are well spun.. The level of water should be as specified by the manufacturer, the more water the more will be the current consumption.
8. Computer
Computer is not a current intensive unit. It is the monitor which consumes the electricity most. Music lovers listen to the CDs for hours together in multimedia computer. The monitor can very well be switched off at that time or set the computer to sleep after 10 minutes of inactivity.
Among household consumers, another significant loss is due to the leakage of electricity. Old wiring, frail and damaged insulation., leaking concrete and tiles,etc help electricity to flow to earth. The electricity meter doesn’t know whether this is the actual use of the consumer ,but would register it as usual.In some other houses when we touch wall,fridge,grinder,pipeline etc, there will be feeling of numbness. This is a very grave indication of leakage of electricity and popularly known as ‘earth’. This is mainly due to the low-grade wiring materials, nailing on the wall causing injury to insulation, unnatural bend, and persistent presence of moisture. Installing ELCB (earth leakage circuit breaker) will help to detect the leakage to some extend.. An electrical engineer can pin point the origin of the leak
Drawing of multi circuit from a single plug point using adapter would cause loose connection causing the wire to be heated up. This is another source of leakage of electricity. If the tester shows power supply in all the holes of a plug point, it can be presumed that the electricity is wasted there. If the electricity meter is functioning even when all switches are off except the main switch, the leakage can be confirmed.
In short, unneeded illumination, dirty lamps and shades, never-switched off lights, aged fridge, rotating fans in unoccupied rooms, television without any viewers etc are the origin of wastage of electricity. As said in the beginning Energy audit may be conducted from the family itself .The energy meter reading may be taken down every day at a particular time and observe the variation and realise where we spent more.
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