Kerala is heading towards lockdown-like situations as the state is being ravaged by the second wave of Covid 19. Keralites are likely to spend more time indoors as the government plans to impose more restrictions on civic life in a bid to rein in the spread of the pandemic. Current bills had come as a rude shock to many during the first phase of lockdown, last year. As per the current regulations, the rates would jump to the next slab if the usage crosses a certain unit. You could avoid getting ‘shocked’ by the electricity bills if you are a bit careful while using the electrical appliances at home.
Air conditioner
The summer sun has been blazing and the temperature has risen to unbearable levels in many places. Most people love to cool down and relax in an air-conditioned room. However, the current bills too could skyrocket if the air conditioners aren’t used wisely. Usually, a regular 1 ton AC requires 6 units of current to run for 12 hours. It is better to use ceiling or table fans on days when the weather isn’t too hot. While purchasing air conditioners make sure that it has a BEE star rating. The 5 star labeled products are the most energy-efficient. Inverter AC that is more energy-efficient than the regular ones is available in the market these days. The electricity usage would drop by 5% when the temperature setting of the AC goes up by a degree from 22 degrees Celsius. So, it is better to set the thermostat at 25 degrees Celsius. Make sure that there is enough airflow around the condenser of the air conditioner. Do not forget to clean the AC filter at least once every month.
Refrigerator
A 165-liters fridge is enough for a family of four members. The consumption of electricity too would go up when the size of the fridge gets bigger. Switch off the fridge during peak hours (6.30 pm – 10.30 pm) to save power and also to increase the durability of the fridge. It is a common misconception that the power consumption would be more when the fridge is switched on after giving it a rest during the peak hours. Inverter refrigerators that are energy efficient are available in the market. While the regular fridge uses 2 units of electricity per day, an inverter fridge requires just under a unit.
The power consumption would be more if the fridge is loaded with food items. Make sure that the food is kept in the fridge only after it has cooled down completely. Similarly, the cold food should be kept at room temperature for some time before reheating them. Wastage of power happens when the freezer gets filled with chunks of ice or frost. So, make sure to defrost the freezer at the stipulated time mentioned by the manufacturers. Ensure that the door of the refrigerator is properly closed. The quality of the rubber beading on the door should be constantly checked. The rubber beading must be replaced if they are worn or damaged.
Mixer / blender
It is not good to use a mixer for too long as its motor runs very fast. If too much water is added, then it would take longer to grind the ingredients. It is better not to switch on electrical appliances in the evening when the voltage is low. The rice and urad dal must be soaked before grinding. It has been estimated that up to 15% of electricity could be saved if these items are ground after soaking for at least two hours.
Washing machine
Make sure to use the washing machine in its full capacity. Instead of washing only a few clothes daily, it is better to wash them once or twice a week. This would considerably save not only electricity but water too. Clothes that aren’t too dirty could be washed in the quick cycle mode. Switch on the washing machine only after loading the clothes in the drum. Make sure that the washing machine is switched off and the plug is removed from the socket after use. It is better not to use a washing machine during the peak load between 6.30 pm and 10 pm. Dry the washed clothes under the sun.
