The hottest periods of the year affect more than just the sensation of heat. Intense heat changes the way we use appliances at home and can lead to a considerable increase in energy bills. Understanding this relationship prevents waste and guarantees more comfort with less expense.

Heat and energy consumption: what's the relationship?

When the thermometer rises, the equipment that controls the temperature starts to work harder. The air conditioning needs more time to cool the room, the fans are on for longer periods and the fridge runs the compressor more often to compensate for the external heat.

This combination of factors increases consumption inside homes precisely at the most critical times of the day, when the heat reaches its peak. And when millions of homes make the same move, the total demand on the electricity grid grows rapidly. It is this combination (greater individual use with greater collective demand for energy use) that can lead to system overload and, in extreme situations, supply interruptions.

These episodes are likely to become more frequent with climate change, which is prolonging and intensifying heatwaves around the world. That's why preparing your home and adjusting your habits is a way of getting through the summer with more security, predictability and control over spending.

At the same time, lower consumption reduces the need for electricity generation, which reduces emissions and the use of natural resources. Small actions done consistently create a positive cumulative effect: environments protected from the heat require less cooling and conscious daily choices avoid overloading the grid.

Tips for saving energy in summer

Saving energy doesn't mean giving up comfort. With small changes, it is possible to reduce consumption, avoid overloading the electricity grid and contribute to a more sustainable use of natural resources.

1. Use more efficient equipment
   Look for models with the Procel A Seal, which indicate lower consumption. Choosing more efficient equipment makes a difference in daily use, especially for air conditioning, refrigerators, fans and appliances that are left on for long periods.

2. Prioritize the fan
   Fans consume less energy than air conditioners and air conditioners - on average 3 to 4 times less than air conditioners. They don't reduce the temperature in the room, but they improve air circulation and increase the sensation of freshness, helping to keep the body cooler on hot days.

3. If you are going to turn on the air conditioning, adjust its use

• Set the temperature between 23 °C and 25 °C;
• Keep doors and windows closed during use;
• Clean the filters regularly;
• Avoid blocking the air outlet with curtains, furniture or objects that obstruct the flow.
• After cooling the room with the air conditioner, use fans to maintain a pleasant temperature.

4. Optimize the use of the electric shower
   On the hottest days, use the shower in the "summer" position or leave it off, if possible. Shorter showers reduce energy demand and also reduce water consumption.

5. Be careful when using the fridge
   On warmer days, the fridge has to work harder to maintain the internal temperature, as the external heat increases the strain on the compressor. A few simple precautions can help avoid wasting energy:

• Make sure that the appliance is in a well-ventilated place, with at least 15 centimeters of space between it and the walls/cabinets;
• Avoid opening the door repeatedly throughout the day;
• Do not put hot food in the refrigerator;
• Check that the door seal is working properly;
• Use thermoses to store cold water and reduce opening and closing the door.

6. Prepare your home for the hottest days:

• Install blackout curtains in rooms with afternoon sun;
• Use light paint on the walls to reflect sunlight;
• Reinforce door and window seals;
• Replace old light bulbs with LED models;
• Review cooling equipment before the summer to ensure good performance and lower consumption.

Find out more about buying appliances that help you save energy

• Energy efficiency
• Tips for buying household appliances: fans
• Tips for buying household appliances: air conditioners
• Tips for buying household appliances: electric shower
• Tips for buying a household appliance: refrigerator