Electrical Economy.

Electricity in Great Britain is now rationed, consumers being allowed only 75 per cent. of last year's quantity. Excellent economy hints for British housewives, given in an article in “The Electrical Age,” should also prove of interest to New Zealand women who, though not rationed by the Government, are forced by the rising cost of living to economise where they can. Main points from the article “Rationing Electricity,” are as follow:—

Lighting.

For the cost of one unit a 25 watt lamp will give light for 40 hours; a 40 watt do. for 25 hours; a 60 watt do. for 16 hours; a 100 watt do. for 10 hours.

1.	Wherever possible concentrate the principal activities in the house in as few rooms as practicable.
2.	In all rooms make full use of floor and table standards, eliminating eye strain by placing light where it is needed.
3.	Use good quality pearl lamps. These give better results and longer life. Where possible use cream or amber coloured shades.

Heating—of Rooms.

A fire marked 1000 W., I K.W. uses 1 unit per hour; do. 2000 W., 2 K.W, uses 2 units per hour; do. 3000 W., 3 K.W. uses 3 units per hour.

1.	In rooms where it is essential to have a large electric fire, switch on full heat until the room is warmed, then switch down.
2.	Use only one bar when and wherever possible.
3.	For short periods and localized heating in rooms other than kitchens and bathrooms, bowl fires are to be recommended on account of their portability and low consumption of electricity.

Heating—of Water.

About 3 or 4 units will be needed to heat enough water for one bath. A 2-or 3-pint kettle can be used for half to one and a-half hours for one unit, depending on loading of kettle.

1.	It is important to see that the lagging of the tank is adequate, minimising the loss of heat.
2.	It will not be necessary to economise in the number of baths if the amount of water used is considerably reduced.
3.	On no account should either washing-up or hand-washing be done under a running tap. Organise your washing-up to avoid incessant drawing off of hot water.
4.	Where thermostats are installed, the local Electricity authority can be consulted with regard to economical temperature regulation.

Kettles.

1.	Heat only the amount of water required. This is to be recommended in any circumstances.
2.	Always heat water in the electric kettle except when cooking is being done and space is available for a kettle or saucepan on a boiling plate already in use.

Washing, Vacuum Cleaning, etc.

Electrical appliances which are driven by a motor, such as washers and vacuum cleaners, can be used for four to eight hours for one unit. If care is taken with the use of heavy current-consuming apparatus, it is possible to have full use and service of the labour-saving apparatus in the home, as the consumption of such apparatus is low.

Ironing.

An electric iron can be used for two to three hours for one unit. Temperature-controlled types should be used wherever possible.

Refrigeration.

1.	The refrigerator door should not be opened more than is necessary.
2.	Hot foods should not be put into the refrigerator.
3.	The regulator should not be set to “Freezing” longer than is necessary.
4.	The refrigerator should be used for perishable foods only and not as a store cupboard.

(To be concluded next month.)