PETALING JAYA: As haze drives more Malaysians indoors, experts say smarter use of air-conditioning units – rather than blanket usage cuts – can keep households comfortable while optimising electricity costs.
“The combination of haze and hot weather puts consumers in a difficult position.
“People stay indoors with doors and windows closed, making homes warmer and driving up air-conditioning use and electricity bills,” said Federation of Consumer Associations of Malaysia (Fomca) chief executive officer Dr Saravanan Thambirajah.
He stressed that consumers should focus on efficient usage rather than avoiding air conditioning during unhealthy air quality episodes.
Saravanan advised setting the thermostat between 24°C and 26°C while running a fan simultaneously, then raising the temperature or turning off the unit once the room cools down.
He noted that drawing curtains, cleaning filters regularly and blocking heat reduce compressor workload and preserve indoor air quality.
“Saving electricity must not come at the expense of health. Drink enough water, avoid strenuous outdoor activities and protect vulnerable family members, including children and senior citizens,” he added.
To offset higher cooling costs, households can reduce the use of other appliances such as water heaters and ovens, turn off unused lights and avoid standby power.
Selecting energy-efficient models, sizing units correctly for rooms and using timers or sleep functions are also recommended.
“The key is not using less electricity, but managing it wisely,” Saravanan said.
Although Fomca receives frequent complaints regarding high bills, Saravanan cautioned against attributing spikes solely to haze without data.
S. Piarapakaran, president of the Association of Water and Energy Research Malaysia and CEO of the Centre for Water and Energy Sustainability, said that haze does not always mean higher outdoor temperatures.
“Generally, during the haze, the temperature will not be as high as when the skies are clear and sunny. There are times when the haze actually results in some form of cooling effect due to low sunlight penetration,” he said.
The main driver of higher air conditioning use, he added, is increased indoor activity as people avoid being outdoors.
To lower power consumption, Piarapakaran suggested opening windows briefly before turning on air conditioners to release trapped heat.
He emphasised that air conditioners operate most efficiently in sealed spaces, advising householders to block gaps under doors – particularly bathroom doors – using towels or draft stoppers.
