Cover image via Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp for the latest stories and breaking news.
According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), we'll be in a for a dry, hot spell all the way through September.
Coupled with the latest haze levels, it looks like most of us will be spending a lot of time indoors.
While dry, hot weather is something we Malaysians have gotten used to, these spells can still be annoying to deal with. Plus, with the aircon running longer and fans constantly spinning at home, energy use can quietly skyrocket without us realising it.
Thankfully, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) has recommended a few small changes in your daily habits and appliance use to reduce energy consumption without sacrificing comfort.
Here are three practical ways to save electricity:
1. Be smart about how you cool your house (or prevent it from heating up)
Yes, you can still use your aircon, but TNB recommends setting the temperature between 24°C to 26°C, an energy-efficient range that still keeps the room comfortable. Ensure your aircon filters are clean to prevent your aircon from overworking.
Additionally, your aircon doesn't have to do all the work. Close curtains during the hottest parts of the day to block direct sunlight, and use thick blackout curtains to keep indoor temperatures down. At night, turn off the aircon if possible and use ceiling or standing fans to circulate cool air.
2. Utilise your electrical appliances efficiently — a small habit tweaks make a big difference
Avoid unnecessary energy drain by switching off appliances at the wall, not just the remote. Devices in standby mode, like TVs, game consoles, and chargers, can still draw power even when you're not actively using them.
Keep your fridge efficient by placing it at least 10cm away from the wall to allow proper air circulation. Avoid putting it near heat sources like stoves or windows with direct sunlight. Inside, aim to keep it about two-thirds full, which helps maintain a stable internal temperature and reduces energy strain.
When it comes to laundry, wait until you have a full load before using the washing machine. It uses the same amount of electricity whether it's full or not, so batching your washes saves energy. If your machine has a cold wash option, use it.
As a general rule, any appliance that generates heat tends to use more electricity. So, boil the full amount of water each time you use your kettle, and save the extra in a thermos. Switch off water heaters when not in use, and minimise reliance on microwaves or electric stoves unless necessary.
3. Monitor your energy usage in real-time, instead of at the end of the month
If your home already has a smart meter, take advantage of the myTNB portal or app to monitor your energy consumption in real time. This can help you identify unusual spikes and adjust your habits accordingly.
Understanding your usage patterns is the first step to better energy management, especially during peak periods like heatwaves.
Saving energy is something that everyone can do, and a few mindful steps can make all the difference
For more #lifestyle stories:
- Man Saves RM772,000 In 6 Years By Spending Less Than RM5 On Each Meal
- From RM500K Loss To RM1 Million Revenue: This Is How Moncherilive Pivoted To Profitability
- Bank Negara Cuts OPR To 2.75%. Here's What It Means For Your Loans, Savings & Expenses
- You Can Now Earn 4.2% P.A. Fixed Returns & With Flexible Withdrawals. Here's How
Got some cool brand news to share?
Take a look at all of our Spotlight stories to date here.
