Heatwave action plan: How to avoid AC blast, reduce electricity bill this summer, check full steps here

India Today

16-05-2025

As the summer sun cranks up over Indian, the northern parts of the country are feeling the heat. Like literally. It is hot. Now, high temperatures mean the doors of your room will be shut, and the air conditioner will become your best friend. But this comfort can turn your electricity bill red-hot, draining your monthly budget.That's not the worst part. Improper use of AC can even lead to serious incidents like electrical fires — or 'AC blasts.' Last year, we reported many cases of ACs bursting in homes and residential areas. So how do you stay cool without switching off the AC entirely?advertisementWell, here's a quick 6-point heatwave plan to keep your home cosy and cool — without burning a hole in your wallet.1. Take care of your AC
Even if it's a machine with no heart, your AC still needs care. Overuse definitely wears down its functioning, and when you skip maintenance or if you overload it, you're asking for trouble. Always get your AC serviced before summer begins. A dirty filter or clogged coils can lead to overheating, which, in extreme cases, can trigger short circuits. So cleaning and caring is step one.Additionally, keep the power load separate. Never plug your AC into a shared extension cord with a fridge or microwave. Use a dedicated power point with proper earthing to evenly distribute the electrical load.2. 24 degrees is the sweet spotadvertisementSetting your AC to 18 degrees C won't turn your room into Shimla any faster — it'll only make your AC work harder and your electricity bill soar. According to the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, 24 degrees C is the recommended temperature. Additionally, every degree lower than 24 increases your energy consumption by 6 per cent.So, 24 degrees is considered comfortable for humans, power-efficient, and kind to your health — offering the balance between comfort and energy efficiency.3. Fan plus AC is the power duoThink turning on the ceiling fan is pointless when the AC is on? Think again. Using a fan alongside your AC helps circulate the cool air faster, so you don't end up feeling cold in one spot and warm in another. The fan helps your AC cool the room evenly — it's the OG power-saving duo.4. Curtain up the roomSunlight might be great for selfies, but not for your room temperature. So when you turn on the AC, close the curtains during the day to block the heat. You can also install reflective window films to bounce that heat right back outside. And make sure to close the doors and windows — or else the cool air will escape, and hot air from outside will sneak in, making your AC work harder.5. Switch to a Energy Star machineadvertisementStill using that old AC from 2010? That machine is probably guzzling electricity. Modern 5-star rated ACs consume up to 50 per cent less power. Even a 4-star one is a good upgrade based on your budget. Simply put, the more the stars, the less energy it uses — and the more you save.6. Timer and Sleep ModeIf you're the kind who turns the AC on all day and forgets even if you are not in the room, It's time to change that habit. Only turn on the AC when required and while sleeping use the timer or sleep mode. This mode allows the AC to gradually increase the temperature while you sleep, ensuring comfort without constant cooling. It can also be set to turn off automatically after 6 to 8 hours.