Carbon dioxide emissions from households account for 16% of Japan's total emissions. The major contributors to this total are lighting and home appliances. As for lighting fixtures, LEDs are an efficient energy-saving measure, consuming about 80% less power than incandescent bulbs and 70% less than fluorescent bulbs, and can significantly reduce electricity bills. As for home appliances, the key is to choose energy-efficient appliances when replacing them. The newer the air conditioner, refrigerator, washer/dryer, water heater, etc., the more energy-efficient they are, and the more you can save on electricity bills. In addition, depending on your local government, you may be eligible for special incentives if you replace your appliances with more energy-efficient ones.

Next, about one-quarter of a household's carbon dioxide emissions come from heating and cooling. Insulating the home is an effective way to reduce these emissions. Covering the entire house with insulation will keep the heat from escaping to the outside, and efficiently warm and cool rooms. Double-glazing windows will help stop heat easily escaping through windows, and the use of curtains will further increase the effectiveness of insulation measures. Insulation also blocks heat entering from the outside, so you will need to run air conditioners less in summer.

It is said that a house with improved insulation is good for one's health. When taking a bath in the cold winter, heat shock caused by the temperature difference between the warm living room and the cold dressing room can lead to strokes and myocardial infarctions. This risk can be reduced if insulation is improved, and bathrooms and toilets are kept warm. In addition, homes with high insulation performance have less condensation and are less prone to mold and dust mites. Some studies have also shown that insulation has improved symptoms of allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, bronchial asthma, and other conditions.

episode 2
Make Your Home Energy Efficient