Ang Init! 6 Best Ways to Avoid a High Electricity Bill When Temperatures Are Soaring

There's no doubt about it — summer is upon us. While we're used to humid days, there are still scorching hot afternoons that leaves us with no other choice but to turn on electric fans and air-conditioning units. However, as much as we want to stay inside air-conditioned bedrooms the whole day, we also need to be practical and keep in mind our monthly electricity bill.

How do you keep the house cool during summer without ending up with a high electricity bill?

You need to know when to open and close your windows, maximize your ceiling fans, and consider following a schedule when using heat-generating appliances. According to interior designer Claudine Medina, you also need to replace thick sheets with breathable fabrics.

What other parents are reading

How To Make Your Air Con Cool A Room Faster And More Efficiently

Know when to open and close your windows

“Thirty percent of the unwanted heat come from windows. Keep your window treatments closed during mid-day until late afternoon, especially on the side of the house where the rays of the sun are coming in,” interior designer Claudine Medina shares. If you still prefer having natural light at home, opt for sheer white curtains.

You can also invest in blackout blinds in light colors. “These reflect the sun’s heat rather than absorb it. By doing this, you can actually lower the mid-day temperature by almost 20 degrees,” the designer explains.

Before calling it a day, you can also open your windows to let the breeze in at night. “Temperatures drop in the evening. Make the most of these hours by letting the cool night air in. Just make sure to close your windows and window treatments before it gets too hot in the morning,” she adds.

Avoid using comforters and thick blankets

No one wants to wake up in the middle of the night with soaked pajamas due to heavy sweating. Instead of using thick blankets, bring out crisp sheets and light fabrics. “Replace your heavyweight sheets with lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen for your beddings. Save your fleece blankets and polyester sheets for colder months,” says Claudine.

What other parents are reading

Water Interruptions in Metro Manila and Rizal May Continue Throughout Summer

Consider investing in an air cooler

According to the designer, air coolers are more economical and energy-efficient compared to AC units. The bonus? These offer a more cooling breeze than trusty electric fans. “You just put cold water inside its water tank and enjoy the cool breeze. However, makes sure to leave your doors and windows open when using this to avoid moisture from getting trapped inside your room or house,” she shares.

Set your ceiling fans to rotate counter-clockwise

“The fan’s airflow will pull hot air up and create a wind-chill breeze effect,” Claudine explains. Consult with an electrician or a handyman to see how you can apply this at home.

If possible, avoid using heat-generating appliances during daytime

Ovens and washing machines generate a lot of heat. If amenable to your schedule, consider doing some of your chores at night. A little sacrifice can go a long way.

If you have an AC unit, don’t leave it on 24/7

While we’d love to leave the AC turned on the whole day, doing so will only result in a massive electricity bill and a unit that’s more prone to wear and tear. Set a schedule on when to use it. How about a few hours in the afternoon and at night? Once your room is cool, you can turn it off and rely on the electric fan to keep the room breezy and perfect for a good night’s sleep. If you’re thinking of buying an AC for your space, pick an inverter unit, and don’t forget to ask the store attendant about the features and energy consumption of each before selecting one.

This article originally appeared on Realliving.com.ph.

Minor edits have been made by the Smartparenting.com.ph editors.

What other parents are reading

These Objects in the Home Can Be Drowning Hazards for Young Kids

There's a Secret Trick to Keeping a Small Kitchen Neat and Clean

Ang Likot! How to Keep Your Active Toddler From Running Off

Isabelle Daza Reminds Herself: 'Not Everything Has to Be Recorded'