The recent increase in electricity tariffs by the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has impacted many Nigerians financially.
The prices for Band A consumers have risen, making it critical to manage energy consumption effectively to avoid further increases in power costs.
Here are six frequent mistakes that might result in increased electricity bills, as well as recommendations for avoiding them.
1. Turning on appliances unnecessarily
Many individuals leave lights, fans, and other appliances turned on when not in use, which can drastically raise energy expenditures. To reduce waste, turn off all appliances at the power strip and turn off lights in empty rooms.
2. Using outdated or inefficient appliances.
Older appliances use more electricity. Upgrading to newer models with the Energy Star designation can result in significant energy savings over time.
3. Neglecting appliance maintenance.
Poorly maintained appliances, such as air conditioners with dirty filters, work harder and consume more energy. Regular maintenance ensures that they run efficiently, reducing energy expenses.
4. Overuse of Air Conditioning
Air conditioners are huge energy users. To save money, set them to a moderate temperature and use fans instead to circulate air and chill areas.
5. Continuing to use incandescent bulbs.
Incandescent bulbs consume more electricity than their energy-efficient alternatives, such as LED or CFL bulbs. Although more expensive at first, energy-efficient bulbs save money in the long run due to their lower power consumption and longer lifespan.
6. Overloading circuits
Connecting multiple devices to a single outlet or power strip can increase energy usage and inefficiency. To optimize power utilization and decrease expenses, make sure that circuits are not overloaded.