TNB advises prudent electricity use as hot weather and festive celebrations drive up consumption, offering safety tips and efficiency advice to manage bills and risks.
KUALA LUMPUR: Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) has advised the public to use electricity prudently amidst the ongoing hot weather and ahead of the upcoming festive season.
The utility company stated that electricity consumption typically increases during hot weather due to longer operating hours for appliances like air conditioners and fans.
Usage also tends to rise during festive periods because of prolonged use of decorative lighting, food preparation, and hosting open houses.
“The combined factors of the hot weather and festive season may lead to increased electricity bills, and potentially safety risks if precautions are not followed,” TNB said.
The company issued a series of electrical safety tips for the public.
It advised switching off the main power supply when leaving home and unplugging unused electrical appliances.
All appliances should be kept away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, or flammable materials like curtains and paper.
Sockets, plugs, and wiring should be checked to ensure they are not damaged or loose.
The public should also ensure Residual Current Devices are functioning properly and tested regularly.
Only Energy Commission (ST)-registered electrical contractors should be engaged for wiring or repair works.
TNB recommended using electrical appliances and decorative lights certified by ST-SIRIM with high energy efficiency ratings.
It warned against overloading sockets or using extension cords for high-powered appliances.
The public is also advised not to charge mobile phones while using them or leave electrical appliances operating unattended.
Fireworks and festive materials should be kept away from electrical poles and cables.
For prudent usage, TNB suggested setting air-conditioner temperatures between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius.
Air-conditioner filters should be cleaned regularly with proper ventilation ensured.
Refrigerator contents should be arranged properly to allow good airflow, and the door should not be opened too frequently.
Using timers for decorative lights and maximising natural daylight during daytime can also help.
The company advised planning appliance usage to avoid operating high-powered appliances simultaneously.
Limiting the use of water heaters while bathing and switching off appliances when not in use are further recommendations.
Choosing energy-efficient appliances and ironing clothes in bulk can reduce electricity consumption.
TNB also suggested switching off rice cookers after cooking and transferring food to insulated containers.
Clothes should be dried under sunlight instead of using a dryer whenever possible.
Any electricity disruptions or abnormalities can be reported via TNB CareLine at 15454.
Reports can also be made through the Chatbot SARA on the myTNB portal or TNB CareLine’s social media accounts on Facebook and X.
“TNB wishes everyone celebrating a Happy Chinese New Year,” it said.
The company expressed hope that the festive season would bring happiness, well-being, and safety to all.
The Sun Malaysia
