Let there be (natural) light…
Make the most of natural lighting by drawing the curtains and opening your windows during the day. This way, you won’t have to switch on the lights until sunset comes around.
Leaving your windows open also helps ventilate your room instead of relying on air-conditioning all the time. Who doesn’t love the natural breeze? Unless, it’s a really hot day, of course!
Using energy efficient lighting can also make a difference to your electricity bill. It’s best to use LED bulbs as they consume less energy and last longer.
Pull the plug!
Did you know that you’re still using electricity when you leave your devices plugged in and on standby mode?
Get into the habit of switching off and unplugging all your appliances when not in use. We’re often guilty of leaving our phone or laptop chargers, smart TVs, and other appliances on for convenience.
And boy, are you wrong if you think leaving them on standby mode doesn’t matter. They will still draw small amounts of energy which add up over time. As the Malay proverb goes, “Sedikit-sedikit, lama-lama menjadi bukit” but in this case the “bukit” shows in your electricity bill!
Check, check, check…
While we’re on the topic of plugs and appliances, make sure you regularly checks the appliances around your house.
Service your air-conditioners regularly, check your water heater thermostat, fridge compressors, and washing machine. Servicing your air-conditioner regularly means making sure it runs efficiently – cooling your room faster and reducing the amount of electricity used.
Afterall, the harder the appliance has to work, the more energy is consumed.
Maximise to minimise consumption
“My laundry basket is half full, should I put it into the washing machine?” The answer is a big N-O! No, you do not use less energy and water when you wash half a load of laundry.
In fact, a single big load saves you about 25% to 50% of the energy of two small loads, meaning you not only save energy but also time. Only if you have to, hand-washing is definitely faster and far more efficient than running the machine at half load.
Give these tips a try. It doesn’t take much to save electricity at home and soon, you’ll see how the smallest of actions can make a difference to your electricity bill.