10 easy ways to save on electricity and water bills at home

1. CHOOSE FRONT-LOAD INSTEAD OF TOP-LOAD WASHERS

Front-load washers are designed to continuously lift and drop your clothes from and into water, much like handwashing.

Top-loaders, on the other hand, fully submerge clothes in water during the wash cycle, and so require more water than front-loaders.

If you're worried you might miss out on washing some items after starting your front-load washer, there is now a solution with Samsung Add Wash washing machine that lets you add clothes even during mid-cycle.

2. USE HEAT REFLECTIVE PAINTS

Can't take the heat?

Make the switch to a heat reflective paint, like the Dulux Weathershield KeepCool exterior paint.

It's designed to reflect a significant portion of solar radiation off building exteriors, which reduces heat build-up in its interior.

In turn, it diminishes the power consumption of your air conditioning unit as well as carbon dioxide emissions.

Also use low- or zero-VOC (volatile organic compounds that release harmful gases) paints.

3. INSTALL SOLAR FILMS IN YOUR WINDOWS

There are a number of benefits to installing specialised solar films in your windows.

These films are designed to evenly disperse natural light, and reduce the effects of the sun, including the reduction of ultraviolet rays and glare, and bringing down the heat.

They also help keep furnishings from fading so you don't have to replace them as often.

ALSO READ: 10 hacks to save on your water and electricity bill in the home

4. USE CURTAINS AND BLINDS TO REDUCE HEAT

Another way to keep your home cool is as easy as installing blinds and curtains, and keeping them closed during the day when you're out.

The Altex SecureZIP smart blinds ensure no gap between the fabric and its side channels for extra protection against UV rays and glare, and is ideal for outdoor spaces like the balcony or patio.

5. PLACE YOUR FAN AT THE RIGHT SPOT

Place your fan at the right spot if you're renovating your home, position your fans strategically for better ventilation and airflow.

Good ventilation means that fresh air circulates in your home, distributing heat evenly and reducing the need for air conditioning.

ALSO READ: Water-efficient toilet bowls, smart shower devices for homes

6. ENSURE YOUR CEILING FAN IS SPINNING THE RIGHT WAY

And speaking of fans, check the direction of your ceiling fan - to get a direct downward draft, your fan should be spinning counterclockwise as you look up at it. This pulls the cooler air down.

7. CONSOLIDATE YOUR LAUNDRY AND DISHES

This seemingly pedestrian chore can have a big impact on the earth.

Conserve water and energy by running full loads for each cycle.

And if for some reason you do need to run a smaller load, turn on the washer's "small load" or "eco" setting if there is, which uses less water and electricity.

ALSO READ: 4 easy, pain-free ways to save water

8. INVEST IN AN EFFICIENT RAIN SHOWER HEAD

A fancy rain shower adds a touch of luxury to your bathroom but its voluminous stream of water increases the likelihood of higher water usage.

But if a rain shower is at the top of your dream home wish-list, get your bathroom outfitted with one that's water-efficient, like Hansgroshe's Crometta Overhead Shower 160 1jet EcoSmart 9 l/min.

It injects air into the water stream for a heavier spray without actually requiring as much water.

9. CONSIDER WATER-EFFICIENT WCS

When purchasing a new WC, consider investing in one that has a built-in sink.

The sink uses clean water that is meant to fill the cistern, so you can save water when washing your hands.

ALSO READ: 10 everyday things Singaporeans should do to save the environment (& save money too)

10. SAVE WATER AS MUCH AS YOU CAN

Start by using a mug when you brush your teeth so you don't leave the tap running, and watering your plants with water you've used to wash rice.

This article was first published in Home & Decor.