As summer brings increased use of household appliances, such as air conditioners and refrigerators, many
households experience higher electricity bills than in other seasons. Adopting energy-saving habits can bring
double benefits: it helps protect the environment and reduces utility bills at the same time. Notably, by
participating in the Carbon Point System and reducing energy consumption, you can enjoy the benefits of cash
incentives. Let's learn more about energy-saving practices that can bring relief during summer months.
Save the planet and get incentives with the Carbon Point System!
The 'Carbon Point System' is a campaign to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across
the country. The system calculates carbon points by comparing current energy use with energy use during the same month over the past two years. In accordance with the reduction rate for energy items, such as electricity, water supply, and city gas, carbon points are given out to users twice a year (in June and December). In the case of electricity consumption, a reduction of 5 to 10% is equal to 5,000 points, while a reduction of 15% or more brings 15,000-point savings. If you save more than 15% on your city gas, you will earn 8,000 points, and 2,000 points are granted for water-supply reductions. You can convert these incentives into cash for up to KRW 2 per point. These points are automatically calculated on the website and users don't have to bother entering or registering their energy consumption information separately.
Make a habit of turning off the engine when parking and stopping!
Yeonsu-gu has designated zones to restrict idling, or leaving vehicles engine running while stationary. The purpose of this measure is to prevent air pollution by reducing unnecessary energy waste and emissions. The restricted idling zones include public parking lots, parking lots for multi-use facilities, and garages. Idling for more than three minutes in these spots will make you subject to a KRW 50,000 penalty. When the air temperature
drops below 5℃ or rises above 25℃, the idling limit is extended to five minutes before a penalty is imposed. It is always good to make a habit of turning off the engine when parking or stopping your car, which is helpful for reducing emissions and saving energy. Driving at a regulated speed and not stepping on the accelerator when going downhill are other tips for eco-friendly driving.
Tips for saving energy while using household appliances
+ Air Conditioners
You need to clean your air-conditioning filters once every two weeks. Built-up dust on the filters decreases the cooling performance and increases your electricity consumption. Another good trick to
save power is to use a conventional fan that helps lower the cooling level for the air conditioner. Keep in mind to set the cooling temperature for your home at 25- 26℃ to avoid unnecessary wasted energy.
+ Refrigerators
Your refrigerator should be stocked at 60% capacity or less to ensure that the cold air is well circulated and to increase the refrigeration effect. Conversely, it is recommended that the freezer remain filled at more than 90% capacity, as frozen foods can easily maintain their frozen state by transferring cold air to each other.
+ Electric Rice Cookers
You can save power by cooking only enough rice to eat up immediately, so that there is no rice left to be kept warm in the cooker. Alternatively, rather than leaving warm rice in the cooker for a long time, freeze it and then heat it up again, as needed, to save additional energy and help preserve better-tasting rice.