Malaysia has been experiencing a scorching heatwave for the past month, with temperatures hitting a sweltering 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) and even nearing 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) on some days, posing a serious health risk to the population with at least two heatstroke-related deaths reported across the states.
The scorching heat is also taking a toll on the daily lives of citizens, with many facing unusually high electricity bills. Recently, a woman from the country went viral on social media after sharing her experience of paying RM2,072 (USD 490) for her electricity bill for the month of April, the highest she has ever had to pay. Her previous highest bill was RM1,600 (USD 378).
RM2,072 Electricity Bill Due to 2 Wrong Air Conditioning Habits
According to World Of Buzz, the woman, named Rose Tiara, recently took to Facebook to share her shock upon seeing her April electricity bill, which amounted to RM2,072 (USD 490). Rose said that it was also the highest amount she has ever had to pay before, with her second highest bill being RM1,600 (USD 378).
The woman’s post quickly gained traction online, garnering over 2.5k shares, 700 comments, and over 400 reactions.
At first glance, the amount is enough to make anyone’s jaw drop, but when Rose shared her air conditioning habits, it all made sense.
The woman’s post has garnered over 2.5k shares and 700 comments.
“The weather is so hot, and I have been turning on my air conditioner almost 24/7. Not only that, I also set it to 16 degrees Celcius (61 degrees Fahrenheit) because I want the room to be as cold as possible,” Rose wrote in her Facebook post.
“Don’t tell me to set the temperature to between 24 to 26 degrees Celcius (75-79 degrees Fahrenheit), I won’t do it. I will still set it to 16 degrees Celcius (61 degrees Fahrenheit) because I want to be very cold and comfortable,” Rose added.
Perhaps it is due to these two “extreme” air conditioning habits that the woman likened her monthly electricity bill to her “house loan installment, which is even more expensive.”
The woman’s unusual air conditioning habits have led to a spike in her electricity bill. (Image via the woman’s Facebook)
Rose said that including her previous unpaid balance, she will have to pay a total of RM5,831.75 (USD 1,375) by May 14.
Speaking to World Of Buzz, Rose said that she did not expect her post to receive so much attention and clarified that she did not intend to complain about her electricity bill, but was merely expressing her surprise.
“I didn’t mean to imply anything. Regardless of how much the bill is, I will still pay it in full and on time,” Rose said.
Rose also said that she is considering installing solar panels to reduce her electricity bill. In the meantime, here are some energy-saving air conditioning tips that can help you save on your electricity bill this summer.
Energy-Saving Air Conditioning Tips
1. Use an air conditioner with Inverter technology
Air conditioners that use Inverter technology, also known as variable frequency drives (VFDs), are designed to save energy and operate more efficiently. When the air conditioner is turned on, the compressor starts slowly and then ramps up to full speed, which uses less energy. Once the room temperature reaches the desired setting, the compressor slows down to maintain a steady temperature and avoid wasting energy.
2. Set the air conditioner temperature appropriately
Many people make the mistake of setting their air conditioner temperature to the lowest setting to cool down quickly. However, this causes the unit to run at full capacity immediately, which can lead to premature wear and tear and increased energy consumption. It is better to start at a higher temperature and then gradually lower it.
(Image for illustration purposes only)
The ideal indoor temperature is between 24 to 28 degrees Celcius (75-82 degrees Fahrenheit), which is a comfortable setting that allows the air conditioner to operate efficiently without having to work too hard to cool down a large temperature difference.
3. Clean and maintain your air conditioner regularly
This is another energy-saving air conditioning tip that you should know. After using your air conditioner for a period of time, usually around 3-4 months, dust and dirt will accumulate on the indoor and outdoor coils, which can make the unit less efficient at cooling and reduce its lifespan.
Therefore, it is important to clean the fan blades, coils, and air filters regularly to keep your air conditioner running smoothly. You can also call a qualified technician to perform maintenance after extended periods of air conditioner use.
4. Avoid running your air conditioner 24/7, use a fan instead or in conjunction with it
It is not advisable to run your air conditioner 24/7, even during hot weather, because being in an air-conditioned environment for too long can lead to dehydration, dry skin, and respiratory problems. Additionally, running your air conditioner all day will significantly increase your electricity bill and wear out the internal components, reducing its lifespan.
Therefore, it is better to use a fan instead of an air conditioner when the weather is not too hot, which will save energy and help circulate the air in the room.
Furthermore, when using your air conditioner, you can also turn on a fan because the combination of an air conditioner and a fan will help distribute the cool air more evenly and quickly throughout the room, while also saving energy.
Source: Đời Sống Pháp Luật
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