The recent increase in electricity tariffs in Nigeria has sparked significant concern among citizens as they grapple with rising living costs and economic challenges. As the government implements a migration of many users to Band A and B tariffs, households are experiencing a dramatic surge in their electricity bills, compounding the financial strain on families already affected by inflation and declining purchasing power.
This shift not only threatens to diminish access to essential services like lighting and refrigeration but also raises questions about the overall impact on daily life and productivity, as many Nigerians struggle to adapt to the new financial reality. Ultimately, this turbulence in the power sector underscores the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions and policies that can alleviate the burden on consumers.
As electricity costs continue to rise, it’s crucial to adopt effective strategies for optimizing your energy consumption. Here are several key methods to help you extend the lifespan of your electricity unit:
Air Conditioner (AC)
- Temperature Setting: Set your AC between 24°C to 26°C (75°F to 78°F). This range is comfortable, efficient, and uses less energy than lower settings.
- Energy-Saving Mode: Use the energy-saving or eco mode if available, which optimizes cooling while minimizing power consumption.
- Regular Maintenance: Ensure that filters are cleaned regularly and the unit is serviced to maintain efficiency. Proper airflow helps the AC function better, consuming less energy.
- Use Fans: Complement your AC with ceiling fans or portable fans to circulate cool air more effectively, allowing you to set the temperature higher.
2. Refrigerator
- Temperature Setting: The ideal temperature for a refrigerator is around 3°C to 5°C (37°F to 41°F). This ensures food safety while using less energy.
- Check the Refrigerator Coils: Regularly clean the condenser coils to improve efficiency, as dirty coils can lead to increased energy consumption.
- Keep the Door Closed: Minimize the frequency and duration of opening the refrigerator door to maintain the internal temperature.
3. Freezer
- Temperature Setting: The optimal temperature for a freezer is around -18°C (0°F). This setting preserves food effectively while keeping energy use lower.
- Limit Door Openings: Keep the freezer door closed as much as possible. Each time the door is opened, cold air escapes, causing the freezer to work harder to maintain its temperature.
- Frost Buildup: Regularly defrost manual or semi-manual freezers to prevent ice buildup, which can reduce efficiency.
- Location Matters: Ensure that the AC and refrigerator/freezer are placed away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This can significantly impact their efficiency.
- Stocking: Keep the refrigerator and freezer adequately stocked, as this helps maintain cooler temperatures when the doors are opened, versus running them nearly empty.
- Energy-Saving Features: If available, use features like temperature alarms or smart controls that optimize energy usage based on your habits
1. Use Smart Power Strips
Invest in smart power strips that can automatically turn off power to devices when they are not in use. This helps eliminate “phantom load,” where electronics draw power even when turned off.
2. Unplug Unused Electronics
Many devices continue to consume electricity even when they are turned off. Unplug chargers, kitchen appliances, and electronics when not in use to prevent unnecessary power consumption.
3. Use Natural Light
Maximize the use of natural daylight by keeping windows unobstructed and using light-colored or reflective surfaces in your home.
4. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
Ceiling fans can help circulate air and maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. In summer, run them counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze, and in winter, switch to clockwise to distribute warm air.
11. Limit Oven Use
Instead of using the oven for cooking, consider using a microwave or slow cooker, which consume less energy. When you do use the oven, try to cook multiple dishes at once to make the most of the energy used.
