Smart changes for BIG savings

Practical ways to save energy, reduce your electricity bills and do good for the world.

TEXT Airis Abdullah

There’s been much in the news recently about electricity costs creeping up. The bad news is experts anticipate these costs to rise in the future. So it’s now more important than ever to choose options and adopt solutions that aid in saving energy at home so as to lower household bills in the long run. That said, the key to an energy-saving home is setting it up to conserve as much energy as possible without you having to do extra on a day-to-day basis. Here’s how you can do it.

Clean and service

Timely upgrades

Opt for LED lights

When buying lights, go for energy-efficient options such as LED bulbs. To produce the same amount of light, LED bulbs use up to 85 per cent less electricity than incandescent light bulbs. On top of the electricity cost savings, LED bulbs last much longer than conventional bulbs.

Check the ticks

From 2022, the National Environment Agency (NEA) will raise the minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) for refrigerators, clothes dryers, casement and window air-conditioners, and split-type airconditioners. With these enhanced standards, you will be getting more energy-efficient appliances that reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. With the Mandatory Energy Labelling Scheme (MELS), you can make informed choices by comparing the energy efficiency of appliances. The maximum, five ticks, means the most efficient. Note that there may be more upfront costs for those with more ticks. However, you could benefit from more longterm savings.

Keeping your appliances and electronics clear of accumulated dust and lint ensures no blockages for maximum efficiency. If you regularly do so but notice them making more noise than usual, it may be time to send your appliances for servicing. Signs of wear and tear often mean that your appliances might be working harder than before.

Another way to get the most savings in energy is to upgrade your appliances and electronics when the technology changes. Televisions, washing machines and refrigerators, for example, are constantly evolving. New models come with updated features that reduce energy consumption and care for your clothes and food better, thereby protecting the planet.

Load them optimally

Rightsize your appliances

When buying appliances, be sure to get the most appropriate size for your space and needs. A large fridge might look good, but if it is too big for your needs, you’ll be spending more on energy just to keep it running.

Keeping your refrigerator full provides less room for warm air to slip in when you open the door. But keeping it over-filled can be detrimental as the cold air needs to circulate effectively. Likewise, washing a full load of laundry saves energy and water in the long run, but overloading your washing machine stresses your machine over time as well.