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Even if you only cut that bill down by AED 100 per month, that's still an extra AED 1,200 at the end of the year.
18 June 2019
| Last updated on 19 January 2020
To lower the temperature or to not lower the temperature? Well…
The weather in the UAE can be described into two: You can either go outside for a picnic, or it’s too hot to have a picnic.
Being a beautiful desert country, throughout the year it’s mostly the latter. According to the National Centre of Meteorology and Seismology (NCMS), summer weather in the UAE can spike up to 49°C and humidity levels are estimated to come up to 90%.
In the US, the general rule is that you should try to avoid spending no more than 30% of your monthly income on your housing, including utilities.
But we live in the UAE, where the key to a comfortable living is a cool, air-conditioned home. By trying to survive the high temperatures, it’s not unusual to feel the heat of a doubled or even tripled electricity bill.
SEE ALSO: 6 Ways to Spring Clean Your Finances
Start saving your money now with these six ways to reduce how much air-conditioning you use.
1. Know your air-conditioner
Rationalize your AC consumption by understanding your appliance.
SEE ALSO: The Hidden Costs of Moving Into a Property in Dubai
AGE – Older models tend to consume more power. Newer models are usually more energy efficient. If it’s more than 10 years old, it has to go.
CLEANLINESS – Change the AC filter at least once every three months. Over time filters get clogged with dust and dirt that hinder its filtering process, forcing you to bump up the cooling and using up extra power. It could add 5 – 15% to your air-conditioning bill.
Sometimes, the AC might just not work.
MAKE – Is it cost-efficient? Don’t just grab the nearest AC with the biggest sale sticker. Try and opt for energy-saving appliances. They’ll cost an extra couple of bills from your wallet but watch as it saves your utility bills in the long run. You’ll be getting back that additional spent cash in savings.
2. Check for cracks and leaks
Inspect your home for cracks, gaps, and leaks, typically on windows and doors. If you feel as though any cold air is escaping where it shouldn’t, it’s time to seal them off.
3. Don’t go any lower than 24°C
The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) suggests homeowners to avoid setting the device to any figure lower than 24°C. Doing so saves power while keeping it at a temperature that’s comfortable enough for everyone.
4. Shade your windows
You don’t want to be around that smoldering summer sun, and neither does your AC. Your device will run more efficiently when the windows are shaded, as windows will otherwise soak up the heat of the day. Blinds and black-out curtains are your AC’s friends.
5. Take advantage of fans
Ceiling fans, electric fans – any fans that will help keep the air cool and circulating in your house. Even better if the fans aren’t at a fixed position as it would promote airflow.
6. Install a programmable thermostat
Smart-technology thermostats can save you money on your utility bill. Oftentimes we forget to change the thermostat and leave the same AC temperature on. Instead of leaving it at a fixed number, a smart device will automatically adjust its cooling output based on the temperature throughout the day.
