Electricity is one of the most significant expenses for most households. Every day, we rely on electricity to power our homes, from turning on the lights to running appliances like the refrigerator, washing machine, and air conditioner.

Here are some smart tips on how to save electricity at home:

1. Use energy-efficient light bulbs
   Energy-efficient bulbs like LED (Light Emitting Diode) bulbs use less energy and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. You can save up to 80% of electricity by replacing all your bulbs with LED ones.
2. Unplug unused appliances
   Even when turned off, many appliances continue to consume energy if they are plugged in. Unplugging your appliances when not in use, especially chargers and electronics, can significantly reduce your electricity bill. And even just turn off power points when not using appliances or lamps or phone chargers.
3. Adjust your heating and cooling temp
   A standard air conditioner’s temperature should be set to 25 to 27 degrees for cooling in Summer, and around 18 to 20 degrees for heating in Winter.
4. Do your laundry overnight
   This is not always a viable option, but if you have a washing machine that you can set a timer for, set it to start washing your clothes after 11pm and before 7am. This is when most electricity providers charge “off peak” rates.
5. Keep your fridge and freezer full
   This one may not be so easy to do due to the current cost of food, but if you keep your fridge and freezer full, it does reduce the amount of energy they consume. The contents of your fridge and freezer act as insulation, reducing the amount of cold air that escapes when you open the door.
6. Air-dry your clothes
   Instead of using a dryer, hang your clothes instead, as often as you can. This not only saves electricity but also extends the life of your clothes and reduces your carbon footprint.
7. Open your blinds and curtains
   Use natural lighting by opening your blinds and curtains during the day. Most relevant for anyone with Teenage Kids! Doing so lets the natural light in, reducing the need for electric lighting.
8. Turn off lights when leaving a room
   It’s a simple tip but turning off the lights when leaving a room can save you significant energy.

Reducing electricity consumption in your rented home is essential for both the environment and your finances. With the cost-of-living increase, these useful tips can actually help you take control of your expenses. By making small changes to your habits, you can make a big difference in the amount of energy you consume at home.

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