Smart Changes For BIG Savings

Smart changes for BIG savings

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

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.

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 air-conditioners. 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 long term savings.

Clean and service

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.

Right size 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.


Timely upgrades

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

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.

No more phantom loads

Some appliances or electronics continue to consume electricity even after they are turned off. These silent energy vampires can lead to a significant phantom load over time simply because they are on stand-by mode all day and night. And they could account for up to 10 per cent of your electricity bill. Entertainment systems, which include televisions, set-top boxes, audio systems, phone and device chargers, laptops and computers, modems and video game systems are often the biggest culprits. To get rid of phantom load, make it a point to switch them off at the power socket after use.

Cool wisely

In this scorching climate, the air-conditioner is a lifesaver that keeps many of us functioning well during the day and sleeping soundly at night. To minimise energy wastage, however, ensure that the temperature is set at around 25 degrees Celsius. You’ll enjoy more savings if you can set it a degree or two higher.

Yay for off peak periods

Are you a night owl or an early bird? Consider using your washer and dryer at night to enjoy off-peak electricity rates. From 11pm to 7am, you can enjoy significant savings off your electricity costs. Some appliances connect to an app so that you can schedule your laundry.

Get smart

Going around the house to switch things off can be tedious. Smart plugs or power strips are helpful tools to tackle phantom loads if you’re not ready to invest in a smart home system. While they also run on standby, smart plugs can help you save energy without hassle. You can switch them off from your phone or set a timer to automate the process.

Consider the life cycle cost

Look at the life cycle cost, too, which consists of the purchase price and the estimated electricity cost over a seven-year lifespan. You can do so easily with the Life Cycle Cost Calculator on www.e2singapore.gov.sg, which lists the popular models of air-conditioners, refrigerators, clothes dryers, televisions and lights.

 

TEXT Airis Abdullah

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