How is energy transferred into your home?

Answer 1

Energy used to heat the home is generally lost through poorly insulated walls, openings around windows and doors, and right up the chimney.

Energy used to heat hot water escapes the heater to it's surroundings, or runs straight down the drain during long showers or after doing the dishes.

Energy used to keep food fresh is wasted by the inefficiency of old refrigerators, or, during the summer, it is dually wasted by removing that heat from our homes by running an air conditioner (Seems okay to unplug the fridge occasionally, or set it to operate at night when the ambient air is naturally cooler).

Energy used to fuel human bodies is wasted by sitting on the couch watching TV or Surfing the internet for answers to questions at Answers.com. However, this energy is generally stored as fat and can be used later as entertainment on NBCs Biggest Loser.

Electricity can be saved by using newer appliances, or using the ones we own more wisely. I tell my wife she can heat up chicken nuggets in the toaster oven instead of heating up our conventional oven. Old dryers, washers, fridges, TVs, hot water tanks, and even computers almost always waste more energy than new ones.

Also, insulate your home, wrap your pipes and hot water tank with appropriate insulation, turn the heat down and cool off your shorter shower. Put a brick in your toilet tank to save a quart of water each time you flush (its better than lowering the bulb, because you retain the same hydrostatic pressure). I know that's not energy related. Put carpet over hardwood floors. Wear slippers. Make soup in the microwave. Eat your leftovers... you already spent the energy to cook them!

And don't stand there with the door open!

Answer 2

leaving our lights on taking long showers washing only one cloth at a time

Answer 3

Lost through seals around windows and doors.

Answer 4

There are two main sources, electricity and natural gas. You may also burn coal or wood.

Answer 5

Through the walls and ceiling (lack of insulation) through the glass (lack of double glazing) or draughts (lack of door and window seals)