Editor's Review

While Kenyans may not influence external factors that cause the cost of electricity to skyrocket, some blunders contribute to high power bills.


Electricity costs can be a burden in many households, given the fluctuations in Kenya Power's power prices. 

While Kenyans may not influence external factors that cause the cost of electricity to skyrocket, some blunders are often made at homes and contribute to the high power bills. 

Notably, these blunders are usually witnessed in the kitchen, where most Kenyans own appliances such as fridges and cookers.

Here are some of the most notable blunders Kenyans make. 

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File image of an open fridge.

Opening the fridge door frequently

Frequently opening a fridge’s door leads to more power consumption and ultimately high power bills.

This is because when the door power opens, the cold air escapes. This makes the system use more power to make the inside of the fridge cool again.

Organization of the fridge

It is also advisable to organize food items stored in the fridge while at the same time avoiding the overloading of items.

"Keep your fridge organized so that air can circulate freely. This prevents overcooling and helps maintain a consistent temperature.

"Don't overstuff your fridge. Overloading it can block air vents, making it harder for the appliance to cool efficiently," LG noted on its website.

Frequent use of electric kettle 

As much as electric kettles save time in the kitchen, frequent use causes high energy consumption leading to high power bills.

Therefore, it is advisable to use the kettle only when required. For instance, one can use a kettle to warm water and store it in a thermos to avoid the frequent use of the device.

Ironing

Irons are the devices that consume the highest power in most homes. Therefore, one should always limit the amount of time ironing is done in their own home.

“Start ironing heavy clothes then switch off the iron in the last minutes of ironing light clothes,” the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) advises.

Other tips for saving electricity

Switch off and unplug appliances when not in use.

Switch to energy-saving bulbs.

Avoid using light during the day.

Reduce time spent in the shower when using an electric water heater.