INFOGRAPHIC: Ways to lower your electricity bill

MANILA, Philippines ­– Electricity is a regular household cost and an integral part of your monthly budget. With a little strategy, you can greatly lower your consumption and your bill.

Being energy efficient at home also benefits the environment, as you reduce the emission of greenhouse gases and lessen your carbon footprint.

Did you know that you use the most electricity in the bedroom? The chart below illustrates the consumption pattern of a typical Filipino household consuming 350 kilowatt-hour (kWh) per month.

Upfront, here are some general tips on how you can cut back on your usage:

1. Don’t forget to switch off AND unplug. Pressing the power button is not enough. Unplug your appliances when not in use to avoid the “phantom load.” Electrical devices consume power even when off, as long as they’re plugged. Turn off, unplug and you could save up to P300 per month.

2. Use a power board or strip. It can supply power to several appliances at once and allows you to conveniently turn them off simultaneously using just one switch. That way, you don’t accidentally leave any equipment plugged in.

3. Switch to LED bulbs. These can save you as much as P220/month per bulb. Maximize natural light during daytime. It’s better not just for your bill, but for your health.

4. Keep your appliances clean and running well. Proper upkeep of your equipment should be mandatory. Well-maintained appliances use less energy, last longer, and save you more in the long run.

In the interactive infographic below, we show you more specific ways to save electricity in every corner of your house. Just hover over each appliance to read the tip.

Read, learn, and share. – Rappler.com

*Based from a typical household consuming 350 kWh per month