How to save electricity while staying cool at home without aircon
As we approach high-humidity months, here's how you can stay cool without increasing your electricity bill.
By: Connor Taylor-Parton
As remote work becomes the new norm for many of us, staying cool while working from home for extended periods is becoming increasingly challenging, especially as we approach the high-humidity months. Unfortunately, not everyone has access to air conditioning, and with rising costs of bills and financial constraints, it's becoming more difficult for many to afford to run it.
This article will explore some tips on how to save electricity and reduce your electricity bill, and find out how many kilowatts (kWH) a device is using in a month or a year so you can find ways to cut down on usage.
On top of that, we will recommend the best fans for working from home without aircon, from compact and portable options to robust and efficient models. Fortunately, several types of fans – ceiling, standing and wall fans – are available that can help you stay cool and productive without breaking the bank.
On top of that, we will share with you
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Products that suck energy
High energy-consuming home appliances you should know of:
1. Set-top box
Cost per year $50
Average wattage: 27 watts
If you have set-top boxes, speakers and televisions, remember to check these items. Plug off these items if you have them in your guestroom.
2. Fans
Cost per year $50
Average wattage: Up to 50 watts
Try using a fan with a switch timer so you can automatically switch it off when not in use.
3. Audio gears
Cost per year $180
Average wattage: 100 to 200 watts
Amplifiers and stereos can be easily switched and plugged off to save you almost up to $180 per year.
4. Air-con
Cost per year $441
Average wattage: up to 300 watts
The lower the temperature setting, the more energy is used by your air-conditioner. Try cooling down your room in an hour with the air-con, and switch over to a fan after that.
5. Water heater
Cost per year $124
Average wattage: up to 3000 watts
Bet you didn't know the average water heater uses up to 3000 wattages! Turn off the water heater when not using. Unlike instant water heaters, storage water heaters continue to use energy to heat water when left switched on.
Best standing fans to buy now
Whether you're on a budget or willing to invest in a high-end fan, we've got you covered. So, sit back, relax, and let's find the perfect fan to help you beat the heat and stay productive while working from home.
1. Dyson Purifier Cool Formaldehyde air purifier TP09 (Nickel/Gold)
The TP09 uses advanced HEPA and activated carbon filters to capture a wide range of air pollutants, including allergens, VOCs, and harmful gases. It also features a unique formaldehyde sensor to detect and remove this dangerous gas from the air. It can be controlled via the Dyson Link app or with voice commands through Amazon Alexa or Siri. It also features a built-in LCD screen that displays real-time air quality readings, making monitoring and adjusting the purifier's settings easy. It’s even designed to consume less energy than conventional air purifiers, helping you save on your electricity bill while still maintaining a high level of air purification.
2. Dyson Purifier Cool air purifier TP07
The TP07 is the older model of the TP09. Both models use HEPA and activated carbon filters to capture pollutants, but the TP09 has an additional formaldehyde sensor to detect and remove this harmful gas from the air. The TP07 is designed for smaller spaces and doesn’t have a built-in LCD screen that displays air quality readings. It’s the more affordable option of the two and is still a reliable air purifier that can effectively clean the air.
3. Xiaomi Mi Smart Standing Fan 2
The Xiaomi Mi Smart Standing Fan 2 is a powerful and versatile fan that offers several features, including dual-layer 7+5 blades that allow it to generate a powerful airflow while remaining quiet. It has a natural breeze mode that mimics the gentle airflow of the outdoors, creating a more comfortable and relaxing environment. The fan can be controlled through the Mi Home app. It’s designed with a DC motor that reduces power consumption while maintaining high performance.
4. EuropAce 9" Jet Turbine Fan with Remote Control
S$105 S$139 at Lazada Singapore
If you’re working from home, you won’t necessarily have to blast the whole room with a fan; you can use a smaller desk fan for sitting by you and your computer to keep you cool. This three-speed fan which can be powered by a remote control, is perfect for just that.
5. Cornell Stand Fan 16 inch
Beat the heat with the 16-inch Cornell Stand Fan! With its sturdy metal construction and adjustable height feature, this fan is perfect for cooling off any room. With three speed settings, you can adjust the airflow to your liking, and the oscillation function ensures that the cool breeze reaches every corner of your space. Plus, it's relatively quiet, so you can enjoy a refreshing breeze without any distractions.
6. The Mistral Mechanical Tower Fan
The Mistral Mechanical Tower Fan is a compact and affordable cooling solution with a slim and modern design. It features three-speed settings, an oscillation function, and a built-in handle for easy portability. With a height of 76cm and a 60-degree oscillation angle, this tower fan is suitable for small to medium-sized rooms.
