Top tips to reduce energy usage, save on utility bills

> Set the AC thermostat at a higher temperature — When the difference between indoor and outdoor temperature is smaller, AC units run more efficiently. > Include an AC cycling schedule — An AC cycling schedule can significantly reduce the consumption of electricity. During the summer, don’t leave it on all day, set a timer instead. > Avoid heat-emanating appliances near AC thermostat — The extra heat will cause AC units to run longer than necessary. If you keep them away, your electricity consumption will reduce. > Turn off the lights — When you leave a room, simply turn off the lights. By reducing the amount of energy consumption, this reduces greenhouse gas emissions. > Set the refrigerator to the ideal temperature — To increase the energy efficiency of refrigerators at home, set the temperature between 1.5 to 3.5 celsius for food and -18 celsius for the freezer. Regularly defrost the freezer. > Switch off the tap — Whether you’re washing your face, brushing your teeth, or cleaning the dishes, switch off the water when not in use. It can save 13,129 gallons of water each year per person. > Don’t throw it away — We’re talking about food here. Reducing food wastage in your home and at restaurants keeps food out of landfills where it produces methane, in turn increasing climate change. > Unplug unused electronics — While your charger may not consume a drastic amount of power, keeping devices plugged in all day at the same time results in a large jump in energy consumption. Unplugging electrical appliances can save money and energy.