Feel nervous each time you receive your utilities bill? It may be time to take stock of how efficiently you’re using your electricity, especially when so much more time is spent at home now. Here are some energy saving tips to help you power up your electricity savings!
Tip #1: Switch off plugs when not in use
When appliances such as televisions, TV set-up boxes, speakers, and microwave ovens are left on standby, they can unknowingly suck up large amounts of power and account for up to 10% of our electricity bill in Singapore. For instance, vampire power sockets can amount to an additional S$25 per year, while leaving the water heater on can lead to an additional S$110 per year on your bill.1 Switch them off at the source and you can save up to S$150 a year!2
Tip #2: Choose energy efficient appliances with higher energy ratings
Check the labels before purchasing new appliances and choose those with 4- or 5-tick energy efficient ratings. Though they may cost slightly more upfront, you will end up saving more over the lifetime of the appliance. For instance, using a 5-ticks air conditioner as opposed to a 2-ticks set will potentially save you up to S$270 per year.3 Similarly, you can save up to S$70 per year4 by using a 4-ticks energy saving fridge over one that is only rated 2-ticks.
Tip #3: Switch to LED lights
Thinking whether to choose LED bulbs, energy saving lights, or incandescent bulbs? Note that LED bulbs generally use the least amount of electricity to achieve the same level of brightness. By using LED lights, you can generate savings of up to S$35 per bulb every year.4 Moreover, LED lights have a longer lifespan – giving you long-term cost savings and reducing your average electricity bill in Singapore.
Tip #4: Stay at 25˚C
In our sweltering climate, the air conditioner has become almost a necessity that we keep on throughout the day. However, did you know that you can save up to S$25 a year4 for every degree you raise? Try setting the temperature at a minimum of 25˚C for the comfort of your wallet and yourself.
Tip #5: Go natural
Compared to air conditioners, fans use less than 10% of the electricity when switched on for the same amount of time. Try opening the windows and switching to a fan – you can save up to S$842 a year5 by keeping cool naturally!
When you give these tips a go, you can potentially save more than S$1,400 every year!
Bonus tip:
Use the DBS Home Marketplace to search, switch, and save conveniently!
If you are looking to switch to an alternative electricity supplier in Singapore, DBS Home & Living Marketplace can help you find a plan that suits you most based on your preferences.
You can easily compare up to 3 price plans and re-compare them at any point in your browsing journey. Eco-friendly plans are also available for those who wish to contribute to a more sustainable environment. In addition, save time with conveniently pre-filled forms when you switch plans via your DBS/POSB iBanking credentials login.
Visit the DBS Home Marketplace today and enjoy an easy reduction in electricity bills without affecting your daily usage.
If you have a POSB Everyday Card, you can also enjoy up to 3% cash rebates on your recurring utilities and telecommunications bills.
1 Based on an electricity tariff of $0.2996 per kWh, assuming 35W of standby power in a home.
2 Based on an electricity tariff of $0.2996 per kWh of electricity, assuming a multi-split 7.5kW cooling capacity air-conditioner used 8 hours daily.
3 Based on an electricity tariff of $0.2996 per kWh, assuming a 400-litre refrigerator used 365 days a year.
4 Based on an electricity tariff of $0.2996 per kWh, assuming daily usage of 6 hours for 365 days a year.
5 Based on an electricity tariff of $0.2996 per kWh, assuming a single-split, 1000W air-conditioner and/or a 31W electric fan where relevant. Used for 365 days a year.
6 Projected savings are based on prevailing retailer rates that may change over time.
Sources: SP Group, NEA and Energy Efficient Singapore
Tell us if you will consider using our lifestyle banking tips
