We all know the rule: While lathering in the shower, the water should be switched off – call for energy saving and of course water. But how much water is used while taking a shower? What effect does it have when the hot water runs over my body for several minutes in the morning just to bring me back the pleasant feeling of the warm blanket I just got up from?
Hot water is not only expensive, but also one of the largest energy consumers and CO2 sources in the private household. Most people are not aware of the high energy requirements needed for preparing hot water. 16 % of the energy required in a household can typically be attributed to preparing hot water – the majority of this is for showers and baths. To compare: Cooking and lighting generate approximately 5 % of energy requirements in a household.
“One second in the shower consumes more energy than a notebook PC in 1.5 hours.”
To get an overview of my energy consumption, I became aware of the Amphiro consumption meter. It allows you to gain an overview of your consumption in the shower. You can develop a feeling for your personal energy requirements when showering or monitor your efficiency goals and, ideally, save a lot of energy and water.
HOW DOES AMPHIRO WORK?
The flow of water drives a small generator. This supplies the electronics with power and at the same time serves as a sensor for the water volume. The device displays the water and energy consumption of individual showers as well as the current shower temperature and energy efficiency class. After a short interruption, such as to apply soap or shave for example, the device continues to meter. Only after a long interruption does the device switch itself off and start to measure again from zero.
A polar bear animation is intended to be a reminder of the long-term effects of energy consumption and the resulting CO2 emissions. Depending on the efficiency class, the ice floe becomes smaller or the bear and flounder completely disappear (efficiency class F +) – also easily comprehensible for children.
MY EXPERIENCE WITH AMPHIRO
I’ve been using Amphiro a1 for a few months now, and finally know how much water and energy I usually consume while showering (there is also available Amphiro b1 which can be synchronized via app). Regardless of the heat energy, it is really frightening how many liters of water are lost in a single shower.
Here an overview of my previous shower behavior, which I have already considered quite economical:
Even before I lather, so from turning on the faucet and the first rinse of the body, already 10 liters of water are consumed. For this, I have rinsed my whole body just once really quickly. Then I stop the water, wash my hair and soap myself. To rinse my hair 10 liters are gone, then again briefly rinsing the body, again 10 liters. The shower process is not very long and actually kept efficient. Nevertheless, I come to a consumption of at least 30 liters of water. Trend upwards. 🙁
With 30 liters, I’m mediocrity. At a water temperature of 37 degrees, the following applies: Less than 25 liters per shower means you belong to the most economical households in Europe; above 36 liters and you are considered to be a high consumer.
A bit disappointing. Of course, I want to be as economical as possible. Central Europe is a water-rich region, we should be grateful for every drop of water and the opportunity to even think about the use of water, considering that it’s not even close to debate in other parts of the world. A real luxury problem.
Even more, I would like to use water more mindful. The information that I receive through the use of Amphiro helps me to use heat energy in a conscious way and motivates me towards the more sustainable use of valuable resources. Even if you continue to shower as usual, you will always be reminded of the result, which in the long run definitely causes rethinking.
Are you trying to save energy in your household? What simple tips and tricks do you know? I would appreciate advice!
* This article was written in cooperation with Amphiro. The consumption meter was provided to me free of charge. Many thanks! I don’t recommend anything that I’m not convinced of. My opinion is always honest and can’t be bought.
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