The price of electricity has never been so high in Spain. In summer, the high temperatures caused by the last heat wave and the use of devices such as air conditioning or fans, cause the demand for electricity to increase and, therefore, also its price. The same happens in winter with low temperatures. Is there a way to save electricity to avoid high bill charges?
Using appliances during off-peak hours, lowering the blind to keep the environment cooler or taking advantage of natural light can help save on electricity bills. However, there are some tips and tricks that can be useful to better control the cost of electricity.
Use LED or smart bulbs
Replacing incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs can be one of the best options to save electricity. Especially if the bulbs are smart, since they can be programmed or adjust the intensity for lower consumption. In general, LED bulbs consume up to 80% less than conventional ones. Ideally, look for a bulb with 10W power.
LED bulbs also offer other advantages over incandescent ones. For example, its useful life is usually longer . In addition, conventional light bulbs can produce more heat.
The prices of LED bulbs are very varied. We can find from the most basic with E27 socket (the most common) at a price of 5 euros per pack of two bulbs . The smart ones usually have a higher price, of about 10 euros per bulb for the most basic model.
Charge your devices in off-peak hours
The off-peak hours are those in which the price of electricity is cheaper. It happens every day from 00:00 to 08:00 and on weekends throughout the day . These hours are the most recommended to charge the devices that we are going to use during the day. For example, the laptop, mobile, batteries, etc. In this way, we avoid consuming energy at times when the price of electricity is higher.
Smart plugs are also a good option to save energy
Another useful option to save electricity is to use smart plugs , since they allow to automatically disconnect the devices connected to them. For example, if we connect a fan to a smart plug, we can configure the accessory to activate the device during off-peak hours.
Check if your appliances have an energy saving mode
It is advisable to buy an appliance with a low consumption level. However, if you already have a washing machine, dishwasher or other appliance in your home, you can choose to apply a low consumption mode . This allows you to save electricity and therefore money on your electricity bill. Most appliances that have an energy saving mode have a green badge.
If your appliance does not have an energy saving mode, you can use a short program or, for example, minimize the power if it is a fan or air conditioner.
Beware of the Standby of some devices
Televisions, monitors, video game consoles, audio equipment, or other technology products and appliances are often in Standby mode when not in use. They make lighting easier, but also consume more electricity.
Therefore, the most advisable thing is to disconnect them from the power. Do it, of course, in those devices that you do not use commonly.
