Avoid raising the temperature around your refrigerator
Most households place their refrigerator in the kitchen, but kitchens tend to be too warm for optimal refrigerator placement. If relocation isn't feasible, position it away from direct sunlight. Additionally, avoid placing it near appliances like ovens, televisions, stereos, or microwaves, as this increases energy consumption.
Allow airflow space when storing food
A fully stocked refrigerator may satisfy food lovers, but overcrowding increases energy consumption. Refrigerators operate by suppressing moisture evaporation to preserve freshness. Leave approximately 10mm of space between items.
Don't put hot food directly in the refrigerator
Many people assume hot food is fresh and will spoil quickly if not refrigerated.
However, placing piping hot food directly into the refrigerator raises its internal temperature, forcing the refrigerator to work harder to cool down, which increases energy consumption.
Avoid frequent door openings
In summer, it's tempting to keep opening and closing the fridge door to enjoy the cool air, right?
Occasional use is fine, but each time the door opens, the refrigerator must restart to restore internal temperature. Continuous compressor operation easily leads to higher electricity consumption.
Adjust refrigerator temperature appropriately
External conditions affect refrigerator performance. Adjust the temperature controller based on seasonal changes, food types, and quantity. Tailor settings to your specific refrigerator—after all, refrigerators have their own quirks!
Air Conditioners: Masters of Cooling and Heating
Many assume summer electricity spikes stem mainly from air conditioner use—and they're not wrong, since ACs consume significant power. Thus, knowing energy-saving techniques for your AC is crucial.
25-27°C is Most Energy-Efficient
In cooling mode, raising the temperature by 1°C (1 kilowatt-hour) can save approximately 10% in electricity.
There's no need to set the AC too low in summer. 25-27°C provides sufficient cooling while saving energy and reducing the risk of catching a cold.
Frequent On/Off Cycles Harm the Unit and Waste Energy
Turning the AC on when it gets hot and off when it cools down increases the number of cycles. This keeps the unit constantly operating, as startup requires the most power and causes electricity consumption to spike rapidly.
Running air conditioners all night is exhausting for them too.
There's no need to run your AC all night. If you wake up around 7 or 8 a.m., setting a timer for 4 or 5 a.m. and using residual coolness to maintain a comfortable temperature is perfectly fine, provided your room doesn't heat up too quickly.
Did you know fans pair better with AC?
Setting your AC to 26°C and using a fan together can feel cooler without significantly increasing power consumption.
Our Rice-Cooking Master: The Rice Cooker
Choose the Right Size Rice Cooker
While larger rice cookers might seem more economical, select one based on your household size (unless you frequently host gatherings). Budget determines power rating—higher-wattage models save both time and electricity.
Soaking rice saves electricity
Soaking rice before cooking reduces cooking time. Additionally, using the rice cooker's residual heat to warm leftovers saves both time and electricity.
Unplug after cooking
Rice cookers with keep-warm functions automatically turn back on when the internal temperature drops below 70°C. This increases energy consumption and shortens the appliance's lifespan.
Often Overlooked: The Television
Adjust Volume and Brightness
Each 1-watt increase in audio output consumes an additional 3-4 watts of power. Maximum brightness uses 50-60% more electricity than minimum brightness. Lowering brightness typically saves about 10%.
Setting color, volume, and brightness to optimal personal levels saves energy and extends lifespan.
Dust protection saves energy too
A dust cover prevents excessive dust intake. Accumulated dust can cause electrical leakage, increasing power consumption while degrading sound and picture quality.
Turn off the power whenever possible
Standby power consumption is often overlooked. While 8.1 watts may seem small, "small amounts add up over time." Make it a habit to turn off the power to save energy. The same principle applies to computer monitors.