Energy-use
myths exposed
Myth:
It uses less energy to boil water if you start with hot
water from the tap.
Truth: It essentially
uses the same amount of energy (and costs essentially
the same amount of money) whether you use hot or cold
water. If you use hot water, you've already paid to heat
the water in the water heater.
Myth: It is more energy
efficient to leave your computer running when not in use.
Truth: Any time you
can turn off your computer it will save energy. However,
turning the computer off and on several times a day may
cause excessive wear and shorten its life. Many computers
now have energy-saving "sleep" features that
save energy when the computer is not being used.
Myth: Cold water from
the tap will freeze into ice cubes faster than hot water.
Truth: Actually, hot
water freezes faster than cold water because it evaporates,
leaving 25 percent less water to freeze.
Myth: Setting your
air-conditioner thermostat to its lowest setting when
you start it will cool your home faster.
Truth: This won't cool
your home any faster, it'll just use more energy.
Source: Bankrate.com, Portland General Electric
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