Due to the increasing cost of electricity, many Pakistani citizens are trying to reduce their utility bills. Electricity bills have been rising, and every month, people become concerned about why their bills are so high.
However, sometimes people’s own habits contribute to the increase in electricity bills. Let’s learn about a few common habits that contribute to higher electricity bills:
- Not turning off appliances: Many electrical devices, even when switched off with a remote control, continue to consume a small amount of electricity as long as they remain plugged in. This is referred to as vampire energy.
Mobile phone chargers, TV plugs, and similar electrical devices that are not unplugged continue to consume electricity, leading to an increase in bills.
- Inefficient light bulbs: Different types of light bulbs consume varying amounts of electricity for illumination. Incandescent and compact fluorescent bulbs consume more electricity and contribute to higher bills, while LED bulbs are more energy-efficient.
LED bulbs, for example, use 75% less electricity compared to traditional bulbs and have a longer lifespan, helping to reduce electricity bills in the long run.
- Inadequate insulation: If doors and windows are not properly sealed, it can result in air leakage, particularly if you use an air conditioning system. If the air is escaping through windows or doors, it means that the AC system has to work harder to cool the room or house, resulting in increased electricity consumption and bills.
- Continued use of outdated and less efficient appliances: Old appliances are generally less energy-efficient compared to newer models, which can contribute to higher electricity consumption and bills. For example, old fans consume more electricity than new ones, and the same applies to refrigerators and televisions.
- Improper use of AC thermostat: If you continuously set the AC temperature lower than required, it means that the AC has to work for a longer duration, resulting in higher electricity consumption and bills. Setting the temperature to a comfortable level can help reduce energy usage.
- Increased usage during peak hours: Electricity rates in Pakistan vary throughout the day, with peak hours having the highest rates. Using appliances such as washing machines, ACs, or other heavy-duty electrical devices during peak hours can significantly increase electricity bills.
- Neglecting maintenance of electrical appliances: Neglecting the cleaning and servicing of ACs, refrigerators, and other electrical appliances can also contribute to increased electricity consumption. When filters in ACs become dirty, it becomes difficult for the machine to operate efficiently, leading to higher electricity bills.
- Not utilizing natural lighting: Although small bulbs may not seem to consume a significant amount of electricity, keeping them on during the day means that you are using electricity unnecessarily, leading to energy wastage and a potential increase in bills.
By being mindful of these habits and making conscious efforts to conserve energy, individuals can effectively reduce their electricity bills and contribute to a more sustainable environment.
