European household energy efficiency guidance

Consumer guidance regarding energy and water consumption efficiency continues to be highlighted for households in Romania and Germany.

In Romania, technical guides emphasize the importance of maintenance and monitoring. For gas heating, homeowners must distinguish between boiler inspections, required every two years by authorized firms, and gas installation inspections, which follow ANRE regulations requiring checks every two years and periodic revisions every ten years. Failure to comply may result in the suspension of gas supply. Regarding solar energy, guidance addresses troubleshooting low photovoltaic production caused by shading or panel defects, while suggesting smart plugs to maximize solar self-consumption. On a larger scale, gravitational energy storage, such as pumped hydro, is noted as a method for managing renewable energy surpluses.

In Germany, consumer organizations such as Verbraucherzentrale Hamburg and Verbraucherzentrale Brandenburg suggest technical upgrades to reduce costs. Water heating accounts for 14 to 15 percent of domestic energy use. Recommendations include installing water-saving showerheads, which can reduce flow from 12 to 15 liters per minute to 6 to 8 liters, potentially saving up to 300 euros annually. Replacing older hydraulic instantaneous water heaters with modern electronic models may reduce electricity consumption by 10 to 20 percent. For heating, smart radiator thermostats like the Bosch Heizkörperthermostat II are recommended for automated control. Additionally, tools from Buderus can help estimate energy savings and state subsidies under the Federal Funding for Efficient Buildings (BEG). In the kitchen, avoiding unnecessary oven preheating can save up to 20 percent energy, though users are cautioned against leaving oven doors ajar to release heat, as this may damage adjacent furniture.