In the intense summer months of Dubai, when cooling systems run around the clock, electricity consumption is bound to increase, resulting in higher DEWA bills. Regular AC maintenance plays a key role in cutting electricity costs. Without proper upkeep, your AC unit can become inefficient, consuming more power to deliver less cooling, which directly reflects in your monthly DEWA bill. However, it is not the only factor. By combining AC service with other energy-saving practices and making simple adjustments to your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your monthly electricity bill. Check out the tips below.
1. Understand DEWA Summer Tariffs
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority applies tiered rates that climb as consumption increases. In summer, greater AC usage pushes households into more expensive slabs. Understanding these tiers is crucial: with lower usage you will end up paying the base rate only, while with excessive consumption you will have to pay premium rates. By keeping consumption within the mid-range slab, energy costs stay moderate.
2. Set the Thermostat Wisely
Adjusting the thermostat settings of your AC by just a few degrees can save up to 10% on electricity. Aim for a setting between 24°C and 26°C for optimal efficiency. Most modern AC units also feature timers and scheduling functions. You can use these features to cool your home during peak heat hours and scale back at night. These small adjustments significantly reduce compressor runtime, helping to lower your overall DEWA bill without sacrificing comfort.
3. Use Smart Meters
DEWA’s smart meters track total energy consumption and display it on an online portal. By reviewing these patterns, you can identify usage spikes that are often linked to running multiple appliances simultaneously. With this knowledge, shifting energy-intensive tasks to off-peak hours can lead to immediate cost savings.
4. Using Energy Monitoring Apps
Smart plugs connected to third-party apps can show how much electricity each device uses. Install them on high-usage items like water pumps, gaming consoles, or chargers to spot hidden power drains. Once you know what’s using extra energy, you can unplug or switch off those devices when they’re not in use.
5. Improve Home Insulation
A well-sealed home retains cool air longer, reducing AC workload. Check windows and doors for gaps and seal leaks with weather stripping. Insulation and roof reflective paint can also lower indoor temperatures. By following these small tips, systems run less often, translating to fewer kilowatt-hours used. These minor improvements can lead to notable savings during the summer months.
6. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
Beyond cooling, kitchen gadgets, lighting, and water heaters contribute to bills. Replace old fridges, washers, and dishwashers with models rated A++ or above. For even better results, use LED bulbs, as they use less energy compared to halogens. Over time, efficient devices repay their upfront cost through lower monthly charges.
7. Explore Solar Energy Options
Dubai’s abundant sunshine calls for rooftop solar panels. DEWA’s Shams Dubai program allows households to export surplus power back to the grid. By generating clean electricity, reliance on grid energy drops, shrinking bills. While installation costs are substantial, payback often occurs within a few years.
Combined with battery storage, solar systems can power AC units during peak hours without drawing from the grid. This option is more viable for residents who own villas.
8. Consider Alternative Cooling Methods
In Dubai, it’s hard to stop using AC completely, but you can take steps to reduce how much you rely on it. Ceiling and tower fans use much less electricity and can help you feel just as cool if you raise the thermostat by 2°C.
9. Behavioral Tips for Daily Savings
Instruct household members to switch off lights and appliances when not in use. Furthermore, it is better to run washing machines and dishwashers full rather than half-loaded. These simple adjustments may seem minor, but they quickly add up, resulting in significant savings.
10. Optimize AC Performance
Routine maintenance keeps AC systems running at peak efficiency. Filters trap dust and debris over time, restricting airflow and forcing motors to work harder. So, make sure you remove the filters and wash them every few months.
Similarly, clean exterior coils with a soft brush or coil cleaner to remove dirt. When coils are clean, the AC doesn’t have to turn on and off as often, which helps keep the temperature steady and saves energy.
For further technical AC maintenance tune-ups, like checking refrigerant levels, tightening electrical connections, or lubricating moving parts, hire professional AC technicians. Just visit the ServiceMarket website or download the app and schedule a visit at your convenience, whether you need AC cleaning, AC repair or any other home service.
