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Energy Efficiency

With measures that can be easily applied in homes for energy efficiency and savings, we can save on both energy consumption and cost.

Reducing external dependency in energy and supplying energy from clean sources to leave a livable environment for future generations is one of the first goals of our developing country.

Small changes in our consumption habits can contribute to both our budget and the environment by reducing energy consumption. Research shows that in uninsulated buildings, windows, walls, ceilings, and floor coverings play a significant role in heat loss. Thermal insulation, which reduces the amount of heat escaping from a building, stands out as the first and most important step towards energy saving. In addition, electrical appliances and lighting used in homes also have a significant share in daily energy consumption. In homes, electricity is used for refrigerators, washing machines and dishwashers, televisions, lighting, and other electrical appliances. A representative distribution of the electricity we use in our homes is as follows: 30% Refrigerator and Freezer 12% Lighting 9% Washing Machine 9% Heaters 7% Television 4% Dishwasher 3% Dryer 26% Other This distribution can vary depending on many variables. For example, if you don't use air conditioning in your home, your electricity consumption for heating and cooling may be lower. Or, if you frequently use an iron in your home, the share of electricity usage under the "other" category may increase. There are simple steps that can be taken to reduce energy consumption in homes, both when purchasing appliances and during daily use. These steps can help save energy without compromising comfort levels. Below are practical suggestions for different appliances and uses.
When purchasing: - Check that the air conditioner has a label. This label indicates that the air conditioner is safe and complies with relevant laws and regulations. - Check that the air conditioner has an energy efficiency label. - Verify that the brand and model information on the energy efficiency label matches the air conditioner it is for. - Ensure that the user manual and warranty certificate, as required by Law No. 6502 on Consumer Protection, are present. - When purchasing an air conditioner, it is essential to seek expert advice regarding the capacity and installation location. Many air conditioning companies provide this service free of charge. - Before purchasing an air conditioner, the type of air conditioner should be decided upon with the approval of an expert. - Choosing the appropriate capacity is crucial for efficient air conditioning use. A larger air conditioner doesn't always mean better. - Especially when purchasing an air conditioner that also has a heating function, consider the climate zone in which you live. - Consider the efficiency of the air conditioner; inverter-type air conditioners, which operate on/off, should be preferred over those that are much more energy-efficient. - Pay attention to the noise level of the air conditioner and choose devices with low noise levels. - Your air conditioner's filters should be easily removable for regular cleaning. Filters should be cleaned at intervals recommended by the manufacturer. - The air conditioner's remote control should be easy to use, the thermostat setting should be easily visible, and there should be a timer function for on/off. - When comparing similar air conditioners, choose those with high efficiency. - If heating is to be done with the air conditioner, heat pump models that can provide heating under the desired outdoor conditions should be preferred. When using: - When operating your air conditioner in cooling mode, do not set it to a very low temperature. Doing so will not provide faster cooling. Choose the highest temperature at which you feel comfortable. In Turkey, this temperature is around 24°C. Lowering the temperature by one degree will increase the air conditioner's electricity consumption by 10%. - Do not set the fan speed of your air conditioner unnecessarily high. - On humid days, operate your air conditioner in dehumidification mode. - On very hot days, you can save energy by blocking the sun's heat with curtains, blinds, and shutters. - Make sure that the air inlet and outlet of your air conditioner's indoor unit are not blocked by curtains, furniture, etc. The air intake and exhaust of the outdoor unit must also be unobstructed. - Do not use your air conditioner for purposes other than its intended use, such as drying, heating/cooling food. - Cleaning the filters at the intervals specified in the user manual and having periodic maintenance performed by authorized service centers will extend the life of your air conditioner. - You can use your air conditioner's timer to automatically turn off the air conditioner when the house is empty and turn it on at the time you arrive to cool the house.
When purchasing: - Check that the range hood has a marking. This marking indicates that the range hood is safe and complies with relevant laws and regulations. - Check that the range hood has an energy efficiency label. - Verify that the brand and model information on the energy label matches the range hood it is for. - Ensure that the user manual and warranty certificate, as required by Law No. 6502 on Consumer Protection, are present. - Make sure the range hood you purchase meets your needs. - Choose a range hood with the appropriate suction power based on the dimensions of your kitchen or the area where it will be used. - Always choose range hoods with a higher energy efficiency class. More efficient range hoods, although more expensive, will save you money on energy costs over time. - Before purchasing the range hood, check if the installation location is suitable. It should be mounted 65 cm above your stove. - Check if the range hood is suitable for your needs depending on whether you prefer ducted or ductless use. When Using: - Clean/wash the extractor fan filters at regular intervals. - When using a ducted extractor fan, install the ventilation pipes according to the specified rules so that the air drawn in can be released to the outside in a healthy manner and the extractor fan can operate at the specified performance. Make sure to select a pipe suitable for the diameter of the chimney and that the pipe is not bent.
When purchasing: - Check that the oven has a marking. This marking indicates that the oven is safe and complies with relevant laws and regulations. - Check that the oven has an energy efficiency label. - Verify that the brand and model information on the energy efficiency label matches the oven it is for. - Ensure that the user manual and warranty certificate, as required by Law No. 6502 on Consumer Protection, are present. - Make sure that the oven you purchase meets your needs. - Always choose ovens with a higher energy efficiency rating. More efficient ovens consume less energy, even though they are more expensive. This allows you to save on energy costs throughout the time you use your oven. When using: - Place ovens away from flammable environments. - Do not open the oven door unnecessarily during the cooking process. - Allow frozen food to thaw before cooking in the oven. - Turn off the oven a few minutes before the end of the cooking time.
When purchasing: - Check that the tumble dryer has a label. This label indicates that the tumble dryer is safe and complies with relevant laws and regulations. - Check that the tumble dryer has an energy efficiency label. - Verify that the brand and model information on the energy label matches the tumble dryer it is for. - Ensure that the user manual and warranty certificate, as required by Law No. 6502 on Consumer Protection, are present. - Make sure that the tumble dryer you purchase meets your needs. - Always choose tumble dryers with a higher energy efficiency rating. More efficient tumble dryers consume less energy, even though they are more expensive. This saves you money on energy costs throughout the drying process. When using: - Before drying, wring out the clothes thoroughly in the tumble dryer. Higher spin speeds shorten drying time and reduce energy consumption. - Do not exceed the recommended maximum load capacity. - Ensure that the filters are cleaned after each drying cycle. - Ensure the room where the machine is located is well ventilated during the drying process. - Dry similar types of products together. - Do not open the machine door unless necessary during the drying process.
When purchasing: - Check that the tumble dryer has a label. This label indicates that the tumble dryer is safe and complies with relevant laws and regulations. - Check that the tumble dryer has an energy efficiency label. - Verify that the brand and model information on the energy label matches the tumble dryer it is for. - Ensure that the user manual and warranty certificate, as required by Law No. 6502 on Consumer Protection, are present. - Make sure that the tumble dryer you purchase meets your needs. - Always choose tumble dryers with a higher energy efficiency rating. More efficient tumble dryers consume less energy, even though they are more expensive. This saves you money on energy costs throughout the drying process. When using: - Before drying, wring out the clothes thoroughly in the tumble dryer. Higher spin speeds shorten drying time and reduce energy consumption. - Do not exceed the recommended maximum load capacity. - Ensure that the filters are cleaned after each drying cycle. - Ensure the room where the machine is located is well ventilated during the drying process. - Dry similar types of products together. - Do not open the machine door unless necessary during the drying process.
When purchasing: - Check that the tumble dryer has a label. This label indicates that the tumble dryer is safe and complies with relevant laws and regulations. - Check that the tumble dryer has an energy efficiency label. - Verify that the brand and model information on the energy label matches the tumble dryer it is for. - Ensure that the user manual and warranty certificate, as required by Law No. 6502 on Consumer Protection, are present. - Make sure that the tumble dryer you purchase meets your needs. - Always choose tumble dryers with a higher energy efficiency rating. More efficient tumble dryers consume less energy, even though they are more expensive. This saves you money on energy costs throughout the drying process. When using: - Before drying, wring out the clothes thoroughly in the tumble dryer. Higher spin speeds shorten drying time and reduce energy consumption. - Do not exceed the recommended maximum load capacity. - Ensure that the filters are cleaned after each drying cycle. - Ensure the room where the machine is located is well ventilated during the drying process. - Dry similar types of products together. - Do not open the machine door unless necessary during the drying process.
When Buying: - Check that the washing machine has a label. This label indicates that the washing machine is safe and complies with relevant laws and regulations. - Check that the washing machine has an energy label. - Check that the brand and model information on the energy label belongs to the washing machine it is on. - Make sure that the user manual and warranty certificate, which must be present according to the Law No. 6502 on Consumer Protection, are present. - Make sure that the washing machine you purchase meets your needs. - Always choose washing machines with a higher energy class and that consume less water. More efficient washing machines consume less energy and water, even though they are more expensive. Thus, they allow you to save on energy and water costs for as long as you use the washing machine. When Using: - Run the washing machine at full capacity, but not exceeding it (You can practically determine full capacity by pressing down on the laundry and checking that the space between the laundry and the drum is approximately one hand's width). - You can save energy by washing lightly soiled laundry at low temperatures. - Don't add too much detergent, as it will make washing more difficult. - If your laundry is lightly soiled or the quantity is small, choose the economical/quick programs. - Do not use pre-wash or high temperatures for laundry that is not heavily soiled or stained. - If you are going to dry your laundry in a dryer, choose the spin speed recommended for your washing program.
When Buying: - Check that the dishwasher has a label. This label indicates that the dishwasher is safe and complies with relevant laws and regulations. - Check that the dishwasher has an energy label. - Check that the brand and model information on the energy label belongs to the dishwasher it is on. - Make sure that the user manual and warranty certificate, as required by the Consumer Protection Law No. 6502, are present. - Make sure that the dishwasher you purchase meets your needs. - Always choose dishwashers with a higher energy class and that consume less water. More efficient dishwashers consume less energy and water, even though they are more expensive. Thus, they allow you to save on energy and water costs for as long as you use the dishwasher. When Using: - Run your dishwasher at full capacity, but not exceeding it. - Choose economic programs when washing small amounts of dishes. - Remove coarse debris from the dishes before placing them in the machine. - Unless high-temperature washing is necessary, prefer washing your dishes at low temperatures. - Only use pre-wash programs when necessary. - When selecting a washing program, take into account the program information specified in the machine's instruction booklet. - Load the dishes correctly into the machine so that you make the best use of your machine's energy consumption in terms of washing and drying performance.
When Buying: Pay attention to the markings on the refrigerator. This marking indicates that the refrigerator is safe and complies with relevant laws and regulations. - Check that the refrigerator has an energy efficiency label. - Verify that the brand and model information on the energy label matches the refrigerator it is for. - Ensure that the user manual and warranty certificate, as required by Law No. 6502 on Consumer Protection, are present. - Make sure that the refrigerator you purchase meets your needs. - Always choose refrigerators with a higher energy efficiency rating. More efficient refrigerators consume less energy, even though they are more expensive. This allows you to save on energy costs throughout the use of the refrigerator. When Using: - Place the refrigerator away from heat sources such as ovens and radiators, and from direct sunlight. - Leave space behind and to the sides of the refrigerator when placing it. - Open the refrigerator doors as little as possible and do not leave them open for extended periods. This will help save energy. - Remove excess packaging from food before placing it in the refrigerator. - As the thickness of the protective coatings increases, your refrigerator will use more energy to keep food cool. - Do not put hot food or drinks in the refrigerator. Otherwise, your unit will work longer to remove the heat, consuming more energy. - Remove frozen items from the freezer compartment of your refrigerator the day before you plan to use them and place them in the refrigerator to thaw there. - Cover liquid foods; otherwise, the humidity inside the refrigerator will increase, causing the refrigerator to work harder.
When Buying: - Check that the television has a label. This label indicates that the washing machine is safe and complies with relevant laws and regulations. - Check that the television has an energy label. - Check that the brand and model information on the energy label belongs to the television it is on. - Make sure that the user manual and warranty certificate, as required by the Consumer Protection Law No. 6502, are present. - Make sure that the television you are buying meets your needs. - Always choose televisions with a higher energy class. More efficient televisions consume less energy, even though they are more expensive. Thus, they allow you to save on energy costs as long as you use your television. When Using: - Electronic devices used at home, such as televisions, music systems, and computers, continue to consume electricity even in standby mode (according to relevant legislation*, 5-7% of the annual energy consumption when on, depending on the screen size). Do not leave these electronic devices in standby mode when not in use; turn them off using the on/off switches, or even unplug them from the socket. - When positioning your television, adjust it so that it doesn't receive direct sunlight from the front of the screen; if possible, position it so that the light comes from behind the screen. This allows you to use your television without increasing the contrast setting, thus saving energy. - Although the power consumption is low in standby mode, electronic devices left in this mode for extended periods can consume a significant amount of electricity.
• Two compact fluorescent lamps consume as much energy as one LED lamp. LED lamps have a longer lifespan. • Turn off the lights in rooms you are not using. • Choose lamps with adjustable light intensity. These lamps help save electricity. • Clean the dirt and dust from light bulbs with a dry cloth. Energy losses in ballasts can be reduced by approximately 30% if electronic ballasts are used instead of magnetic ballasts in tube-type fluorescent lamps. • In areas requiring more lighting, if space permits, use high-wattage lamps instead of numerous low-wattage lamps. • Choose high-efficiency, suitable light sources and luminaires that use light efficiently. Regularly maintain the luminaires. • Do not use lampshades that block light transmission. • Concentrate lighting on areas necessary for reading, working, and security. Reduce lighting in other areas; avoid creating excessively bright or dark areas. Prefer partial lighting instead of general lighting. • Use low-wattage lamps for stairwell lighting. Prefer lighting with occupancy sensors in general use areas. • Reduce your need for artificial lighting by painting your rooms in light colors. • Avoid decorative lighting except for special occasions. • Try to utilize daylight instead of electric lighting during the day. • Replace classic light switches with new, modern ones. • Energy savings can be achieved if outdoor lighting is controlled. Therefore, set a timer for lighting or add motion sensors.
On average, 15 minutes of using a hair dryer consumes the same amount of electricity as a 75-watt light bulb burning for 3 hours. Things to keep in mind when drying your hair: • Dry your hair thoroughly with a towel before using a hair dryer. • Set your hair dryer to the lowest temperature setting. Remember! By reducing drying time by 10%, you can save 10% on energy costs.
The most frequently used electrical appliance for cleaning in our homes is the vacuum cleaner. By paying attention to energy efficiency when choosing and using a vacuum cleaner, you can save up to 10% on energy costs. • When choosing a vacuum cleaner, pay attention to its efficiency in electricity consumption. If you have different brands and models with the same suction power, choose the one with the lowest power. • Use vacuum cleaners with water tanks instead of bagged vacuum cleaners. • Empty and replace the vacuum cleaner bag frequently. This will increase the suction power of the vacuum cleaner, allowing you to clean more efficiently and in a shorter time. • Clean the brushes and tubes to prevent loss of suction, and replace them if necessary. • At least once a year, open the motor compartment and clean out any dust and lint.
Even when choosing an iron, which we might not think will consume much energy because it's a small appliance, there are important details to consider. Therefore, when choosing an iron, make sure to: • Choose one with high energy efficiency, • Low power consumption, • Adjustable steam and high steam capacity, • Thermostat-controlled and suitable for use with tap water, • Self-cleaning limescale, • A soleplate with a non-scratch coating, • Glides smoothly over fabric. It is estimated that choosing such irons will save at least 10 percent. After choosing your iron, the next step is to use it correctly and efficiently. • Hang your laundry neatly on a hanger before ironing. This will help you use less energy while ironing. • Iron your laundry while it is still damp. • When using the iron, set the thermostat to the lowest level according to the fabric type. If water remains on the fabric in droplets, the steam setting should be reduced. • Plan the ironing so that you don't need to reheat the iron. • Unplug the iron a few minutes before you finish ironing, and iron your last garment with the remaining heat. Because saving 5 minutes of power on a 1500 Watt iron is equivalent to running a 15 Watt light bulb for 8 hours for free.
Benefits of Thermal Insulation: • Thermal insulation improves your quality of life by ensuring balanced air distribution inside the building, reduces the amount of energy you use for heating, saves energy, and extends the lifespan of your building. The money spent on thermal insulation is amortized in a short period of 3-5 years through the energy savings it provides. • It contributes to the prevention of environmental pollution and global warming by reducing fuel consumption and therefore exhaust gases. • Smaller capacity boilers and smaller radiators can be used in thermally insulated buildings. Therefore, the money you spend on thermal insulation also saves you money on heating systems. • It increases the earthquake resistance of the building by preventing the rusting of the iron inside the concrete. • With thermal insulation, we can reduce the energy we spend on heating in our homes by 50%. Simple Measures for Heating: • Take advantage of the sun more by opening the curtains of your windows that receive more sunlight than others. • Windows and doors cause a quarter of the heat loss in our homes. Heat loss from single-pane windows is approximately 20% of the loss in an uninsulated house. By using double glazing, you can halve this loss. • Use window tape and foam to prevent air leaks from the edges of your windows and doors. • Open the curtains on sunny days in winter. Be sure to close the curtains after sunset. • Do not use long curtains that will obstruct the heat flow of radiators. Closed and appropriately fitted curtains prevent heat loss from windows by 25%. • Definitely repair cracks around door frames. • The heat from radiators heats the wall behind the radiator. To prevent this heat loss, place aluminum foil-covered insulation panels behind the radiators. • Turn down or turn off the valve of your heater or radiator when you are away from home for vacation or other reasons. • Never place objects (marble, laundry, etc.) in front of or on top of your heater or radiators. • Ensure there are no water leaks in the radiator connection pipes. • Always turn off your heater when ventilating your rooms.