Key takeaways
Air conditioners, water heaters and old refrigerators usually consume the most electricity at home.
Choose appliances with higher BEE star ratings; they cost less to run.
Set ACs around 24°C, use timers and maintain filters.
Rooftop solar with net metering can sharply reduce bills.

Electricity bills spike in north Indian summers. Small changes can make a big difference.

Know where power goes

Appliance	Typical share
Air conditioners	Often largest in summer
Water heaters	Large in winter
Refrigerator	Runs all day
Lighting	Small with LEDs
Pumps and motors	Moderate

Air conditioning

Set to around 24°C; the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has promoted this as an energy-saving default.
Use inverter ACs with higher star ratings.
Clean filters regularly.
Seal doors and windows; use curtains.
Use ceiling fans with the AC.

Lighting

Switch to LED bulbs and tubes.

Water heating

Use timers on geysers.
Consider solar water heaters.
Insulate hot water pipes.

Appliances

Buy higher BEE star-rated appliances.
Replace old refrigerators.
Switch off standby loads at the socket.

Understand your tariff

Electricity tariffs are often slab-based, so higher consumption costs more per unit. Check your sanctioned load and tariff category. See PSPCL connection guide.

Solar

Rooftop solar with net metering, supported by subsidy, can cut bills substantially. See PM Surya Ghar.

When buying or renting

Ask about orientation, insulation, shading and the cost of power backup.

Frequently asked questions

What uses the most electricity at home?

Usually air conditioners in summer and water heaters in winter, followed by refrigerators and pumps.

What temperature should I set my AC to save power?

Around 24°C is widely recommended for energy efficiency.

Do BEE star ratings matter?

Yes. Higher star-rated appliances use less electricity for the same function.

Can rooftop solar reduce my bill?

Yes, especially with net metering; subsidies are available under PM Surya Ghar.

Related HomeAcross guides

Official sources and further reading

This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules, rates and procedures change; confirm current requirements with the relevant authority or a qualified professional before you act. Read our editorial policy.

Cutting Your Home Electricity Bill: Practical Energy Efficiency Tips

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