QUICKTIP

How can a power board save energy?

Particularly if you have many older electronic gadgets, standby power can be a significant power user, which gives you no benefit.

This power use can sometimes be reduced if you plug multiple appliances into one power board with a switch on it. You can then switch off all the appliances with the flick of a single switch. Examples where this can be useful are where you have multiple related appliances, particularly computer accessories or home theatre components. Sometimes some components need to be left on permanently (for example if they have a clock that needs to be kept energised). These appliances can be plugged in separately to a power point (or power board) which is left permanently on.

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EDITORIAL

Debunking a climate change sceptic.

Many climate sceptics have been making ridiculous claims. As an aid to promoting informed debate, I have analysed the claims in ‘Why an Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) is not necessary’ by Australian sceptic Leon Ashby. The majority of the claims are ridiculous, and even the two or three reasonable questions he raises are readily answerable.

Because Leon's power point presentation has been widely distributed you are likely to hear his arguments at barbeques and the like. I urge you to have a read of my debunking of his arguments so you are equipped to counter erroneous perceptions.

As the presentation is 1.1MB I have put it on my web site, rather than including it in this e-mail. Download it from debunking a climate sceptic

I urge you to have a read of it and forward it on to those you think would be interested.

If you have any comments please contact us.

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PRACTICAL ENERGY SAVING

Basic rules for energy conservation (and reducing greenhouse gases)

It is worth thinking about how much electricity an appliance uses, before spending too much time on minimising its use. The two characteristics that determine how much an appliance uses are how much power does it draw and for how long. If something draws a lot, or for a long time, then it is worth minimising waste. As a rough guide, things that heat something, like an electric jug, and products with a powerful electric motor, like a swimming pool pump, use a lot of energy.

If an appliance is on for a long time it is worth minimising its use.

The same basic rules apply for most appliances.

 

• Do you really need to use it?
• Can you switch it off for more time?
• Does it need to be that large?
• If they come with star ratings, choose a high number of stars

 

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