Practical Tips to Save Energy and Cut Electricity Bills in Accra

Electricity costs in Accra can be high, especially with frequent power consumption from air conditioners, refrigerators, and water heaters. Reducing your electricity bill not only saves money but also helps improve energy efficiency in your home.

This guide will show you practical ways to reduce electricity costs in an apartment while maintaining comfort.

1. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances

Older appliances consume more electricity, leading to higher bills. Switching to energy-efficient models can save money in the long run.

Best Energy-Efficient Appliances for Apartments:

• Inverter air conditioners – Use less power compared to regular AC units.
• LED TVs and refrigerators – Consume 30-50% less energy than older models.
• Energy-saving washing machines – Reduce water and electricity consumption.
• Electric kettles with auto shut-off – Prevent unnecessary power usage.

Why It Works:

Modern energy-efficient appliances require less electricity to operate, lowering your bill significantly.

2. Unplug Devices When Not in Use

Many appliances continue using power even when turned off—a phenomenon known as phantom load or standby power.

Devices That Consume Power in Standby Mode:

• TVs and home theater systems
• Phone and laptop chargers
• Microwave ovens and electric kettles
• WiFi routers and gaming consoles

How to Reduce Standby Power Consumption:

• Unplug devices when not in use.
• Use power strips with switches to turn off multiple appliances at once.
• Avoid leaving chargers plugged in when not charging devices.

Why It Works:

Eliminating standby power waste can reduce electricity consumption by up to 10%.

3. Reduce Air Conditioner Usage

Air conditioners are one of the biggest contributors to high electricity bills in Accra due to the hot climate.

How to Lower AC Power Consumption:

• Set the temperature to 24-26°C instead of the lowest setting.
• Use ceiling or standing fans as an alternative cooling option.
• Keep curtains and blinds closed during the day to block heat.
• Turn off AC units when leaving the apartment.

Why It Works:

Every degree increase in AC temperature can reduce energy usage by 5-10%.

4. Switch to LED Light Bulbs

Traditional incandescent bulbs consume a lot of electricity and generate heat, increasing cooling costs.

Why LED Bulbs Are Better:

• Use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs.
• Last up to 10 years, reducing replacement costs.
• Produce less heat, lowering AC usage.

How to Save on Lighting Costs:

• Replace all bulbs with LEDs to cut lighting costs.
• Use motion-sensor or solar lights for outdoor areas.
• Turn off lights when leaving a room.

Why It Works:

LED bulbs significantly reduce lighting costs and help lower overall energy consumption.

5. Reduce Refrigerator Energy Usage

Refrigerators run 24/7, making them one of the biggest energy consumers in an apartment.

How to Save Electricity with Your Fridge:

• Keep the fridge full—a full fridge retains cold air better.
• Avoid opening the door frequently, as it lets cold air escape.
• Set the fridge temperature between 3-5°C for efficiency.
• Defrost regularly if using a non-auto-defrost model.
• Keep the fridge away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Why It Works:

Efficient fridge use reduces energy wastage while keeping food fresh.

6. Use Water Heaters Wisely

Electric water heaters consume a lot of power, especially if left running continuously.

How to Reduce Water Heater Energy Use:

• Turn off the heater after use instead of leaving it on.
• Use instant water heaters instead of storage-type models.
• Take shorter showers to reduce hot water demand.
• Consider solar-powered water heaters if available.

Why It Works:

Using water heaters only when necessary helps cut electricity costs significantly.

7. Take Advantage of Natural Light

Using natural light during the day reduces the need for artificial lighting.

How to Maximize Natural Light:

• Keep curtains open during the day to let in sunlight.
• Use light-colored walls and reflective surfaces to brighten rooms.
• Arrange furniture near windows to take advantage of daylight.

Why It Works:

Natural light is free and energy-efficient, reducing dependence on bulbs and lamps.

8. Wash Clothes in Cold Water

Washing machines use extra energy to heat water, increasing electricity costs.

How to Save Energy When Doing Laundry:

• Use cold water settings instead of hot water.
• Wash full loads instead of multiple small loads.
• Air-dry clothes instead of using an electric dryer.

Why It Works:

Using cold water can cut washing machine energy use by 50% or more.

9. Use Smart Power Strips

Smart power strips automatically cut off power to devices that are not in use.

Best Ways to Use Smart Power Strips:

• Plug in entertainment systems and computers to prevent standby power use.
• Use them for chargers, kitchen appliances, and office equipment.

Why It Works:

A smart power strip prevents energy waste without manual unplugging.

10. Monitor Your Electricity Usage

Tracking your electricity consumption helps you identify areas to cut down on usage.

How to Monitor Your Power Usage:

• Check your electricity meter weekly to track usage.
• Use a prepaid meter to control spending.
• Identify which appliances use the most power and adjust usage habits.

Why It Works:

Monitoring power usage helps you make informed decisions to reduce your electricity bill.

Why Use Apartments.com.gh to Find Energy-Efficient Apartments?

If you are looking for an apartment with energy-saving features, Apartments.com.gh helps you:

• Find apartments with prepaid meters for better electricity management.
• Compare listings with energy-efficient appliances and good ventilation.
• Connect with landlords who offer solar power or alternative energy solutions.

Start your apartment search today at Apartments.com.gh.

Conclusion

Lowering electricity bills in an apartment in Accra is possible by using energy-efficient appliances, reducing AC and water heater usage, unplugging devices, and maximizing natural light. By following these steps, you can cut costs and save money every month.

Looking for an energy-efficient apartment? Visit Apartments.com.gh today to explore rental options with lower electricity costs.