13 Practical Ways to Save Electricity at Home in Pakistan Amid Inflation

Electricity is a valuable resource that plays an integral role in our daily lives. However, with increasing electricity prices and inflation in Pakistan, it’s crucial to adopt energy-efficient habits to not only reduce your bills but also contribute to conserving energy and protecting the environment. In this article, we will explore practical ways to save electricity at home while keeping the rising costs in mind.

1. Opt for LED Lighting: Traditional incandescent bulbs are notorious for consuming excessive energy and generating heat. Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs that consume significantly less electricity and last longer. Although LED bulbs may have a higher upfront cost, the long-term savings are substantial.
2. Unplug Unused Appliances: Many electronic devices and appliances continue to consume energy even when they are turned off or in standby mode. Unplug chargers, coffee makers, and other appliances when not in use to prevent energy wastage.
3. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances: When purchasing new appliances, look for the Energy Star label. These appliances are designed to meet specific energy-efficient standards and can help you save electricity and reduce your bills.
4. Efficient Use of Air Conditioning: Air conditioners can be major electricity guzzlers. To save electricity, set your air conditioner to an optimal temperature, ideally around 24-26 degrees Celsius. Additionally, make sure to seal any gaps around windows and doors to maintain a cooler indoor environment. Regularly clean or replace the air filters to ensure your AC operates efficiently.
5. Smart Use of Fans: Ceiling and floor fans can be used to complement your air conditioner. They help distribute cool air more effectively, allowing you to set your thermostat a bit higher without compromising comfort. Don’t forget to turn them off when you leave a room.
6. Solar Panels: While installing solar panels may involve an initial investment, they can significantly reduce your reliance on the grid, especially in regions with ample sunlight like Pakistan. Solar power can substantially decrease your electricity bills and even allow you to sell excess energy back to the grid.
7. Ditch the Dryer and Dishwasher: Another effective way to save electricity is by reducing the use of your dryer and dishwasher’s heated drying cycle. For your laundry, opt for natural drying methods. Whenever possible, take advantage of direct sunlight to dry your clothes. If you must use the dryer, select a lower heat setting, even if it means slightly longer drying times.

   When it comes to your dishwasher, avoid the heated drying cycle by using a napkin to dry your dishes manually. An alternative is to leave the dishwasher door ajar and let your dishes air dry. This small change can save you money by cutting down on the heat cycle’s energy consumption. Rest assured that air-dried dishes are just as hygienic as those dried with heat.

8. Load Shedding Schedule: Be aware of your area’s load shedding schedule. You can organize your daily activities around these timings, using high-power appliances during non-peak hours and reducing electricity consumption during outages.
9. Reduce Your Refrigerator Temperature: It’s easy to overlook the temperature setting on your refrigerator, especially when you’re primarily focused on keeping your drinks cold and your vegetables fresh. However, making a small adjustment and lowering the temperature by a few degrees can significantly contribute to energy conservation. By fine-tuning your refrigerator’s thermostat, you can maintain the freshness of your items while reducing the workload of the cooling system, ultimately leading to cost savings on your energy bills.
10. Regularly Defrost and Unplug Your Freezer: Your freezer benefits from a monthly defrosting session. When ice accumulates excessively, the freezer’s system has to work harder to preserve all the built-up ice and maintain a steady flow of cold air. This extra workload translates to higher energy consumption and increased energy costs.

    To defrost your freezer, start by unplugging it and removing all food items. Leave the freezer door open to expedite the melting process, and then ensure it’s completely dry before plugging it back in. Once it’s cooled down, repack your food items while taking care to arrange them for optimal airflow, promoting better energy efficiency. This small practice helps reduce the strain on your freezer’s system and, consequently, saves electricity.

11. Educate Your Family: Make sure everyone in your household understands the importance of saving electricity and practices good habits. Encourage your family to switch off lights, fans, and appliances when not needed.
12. Insulate Your Home: Properly insulating your home can help maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the year. This means you’ll use less energy for heating and cooling.
13. Cook Efficiently: Using energy-efficient cooking methods, like pressure cookers, microwave ovens, or slow cookers, can help reduce electricity usage. When using stovetops or ovens, cook in batches to save both time and energy.

In a time of rising electricity prices and inflation, it’s essential to adopt energy-saving practices in your daily life. Not only will these actions help you lower your electricity bills, but they will also contribute to a sustainable environment and energy conservation. By making conscious choices and instilling good habits, you can play your part in saving electricity and keeping your home efficient and cost-effective in Pakistan.