A typical Singapore household spends about 50% of its electricity bills on the air-conditioner and refrigerator. If you want to reduce energy at home and save money, the best way is to use your air-conditioner and refrigerator wisely. You can choose to do one or more of the following:
Air-Conditioner
If you need to buy an air-conditioner, choose one that is energy-efficient and suitably sized for your home. Check out the models with the Energy Label from this NEA database.
Set your air-conditioner’s thermostat to a higher comfortable temperature (about 25 degree Celsius).
Clean the air filters regularly and service your air-conditioners annually. For general servicing, approach Coolserve or other contractors.
Set the timer to switch off your air-conditioner before dawn or after some hours of usage.
Stop using your air-conditioner and switch to a fan (standing, box or ceiling type) that can keep you comfortable while using much less energy than your air-conditioner.
Use your air-conditioner and fan on alternate days. For example, use the air-conditioner on even days and the fan on odd days.
Switch on your air-conditioner one hour before going to bed. When it’s time to sleep, switch off the air-conditioner and use the fan instead. The fan is able to circulate the cool air and keep you comfortable.
Refrigerator
Adjust the thermostat in the refrigerator to a higher temperature or setting.
Close the refrigerator door immediately after taking out the food.
Ensure that the refrigerator is not placed near heat sources (eg. heating appliances or sunlight).
Ensure that there is space for airflow near the compressor and condenser coils.
Check that the door is air tight by closing the door on a piece of paper, which should stay in place.
Allow hot food to cool before placing the food in the refrigerator.
Allow sufficient space in the refrigerator for air circulation and do not stuff too much food inside.
Buy a refrigerator with the smallest model to suit your needs and choose one with the energy efficient Energy Label.
