Saving energy is not only about lowering electricity bills. Efficient use also reduces strain on electrical equipment, limits unnecessary heat generation and can help extend the service life of appliances and installations. The following practical measures are suitable for most homes in Switzerland.

Start with the biggest energy users

Heating, hot water, cooking, refrigeration and laundry generally account for a large share of household energy consumption. Focus first on these areas rather than relying only on small changes such as switching off a single standby light.

Set heating controls to comfortable temperatures and avoid heating empty rooms unnecessarily.
Use washing machines and dishwashers with full loads, and select eco programmes when appropriate.
Keep refrigerators and freezers at the manufacturer’s recommended temperatures, and check that door seals close properly.
Use lids when cooking and choose an appliance suitable for the quantity being prepared.
Dry clothes efficiently and avoid placing a tumble dryer in an unventilated or excessively warm room.

Reduce standby consumption safely

Many devices continue to consume a small amount of electricity when they are not actively being used. Grouping entertainment equipment on a suitable power strip with an integrated switch can make it easier to disconnect devices during long periods of absence.

Do not overload sockets or connect multiple power strips together. Chargers, adapters and extension leads should be used only within their rated capacity and should be replaced if they become hot, damaged or discoloured.

Protect appliances from avoidable damage

Good ventilation is important for refrigerators, freezers, routers, televisions and other electrical equipment. Keep ventilation openings clear and follow the manufacturer’s required clearances. Dust accumulation can reduce cooling and increase the risk of overheating.

Protect sensitive electronics by using reputable surge protection where appropriate, particularly for computers, networking equipment and home entertainment systems. Surge protection is not a substitute for a correctly installed electrical system or for adequate protection against lightning and major power events.

Inspect visible warning signs

Arrange a qualified electrical inspection if you notice any of the following:

Repeatedly tripping circuit breakers or residual-current devices (RCDs).
Burning smells, buzzing sounds, scorch marks or unusual heat around sockets, switches or appliances.
Flickering lights that cannot be explained by a faulty lamp.
Loose, cracked or damaged sockets, plugs, cables or light fittings.
Extension leads being used as a permanent substitute for fixed wiring.

Do not remove covers, bypass protective devices or continue using equipment that shows signs of overheating. Switch off the affected appliance if it is safe to do so and contact a qualified electrician. If there is smoke, fire or an immediate danger, leave the property and call the appropriate emergency service.

Use lighting efficiently

LED lamps generally use less electricity and last longer than older lamp types. Choose the correct brightness and colour temperature for each room, and use timers or presence sensors in areas such as corridors, storage rooms and outdoor access points.

Only install lamps and fittings that are compatible with the fixture and dimmer. If a light flickers after changing the lamp, stop using it until compatibility and the electrical installation have been checked.

Be careful with outdoor and damp areas

Electrical equipment used outdoors, in bathrooms, kitchens, cellars or laundry rooms must be suitable for the environment. Keep plugs and connections away from water, use only equipment intended for outdoor use and do not use damaged cables.

Never operate portable electrical equipment with wet hands or in standing water. For changes involving fixed wiring, outdoor circuits, bathroom installations or protective devices, use a qualified professional rather than attempting the work yourself.

Plan maintenance instead of waiting for a fault

Keep a simple record of recurring faults, older appliances and any circuit that trips regularly. This information helps an electrician identify patterns and recommend proportionate improvements, such as repairing a connection, replacing an unsafe accessory or assessing whether the installation meets current requirements.

When purchasing a new high-power appliance, check its electrical requirements and the capacity of the existing circuit. An electrician can confirm whether the supply, protection and connection are suitable before installation.

A safe energy-saving routine

Identify the largest energy users in the home.
Switch off or schedule equipment that does not need to operate continuously.
Keep appliances clean, ventilated and maintained according to their instructions.
Check visible plugs, cables, sockets and fittings for damage.
Record and investigate repeated trips, heat, noise or burning smells.
Use a qualified electrician for fixed electrical work, testing and fault diagnosis.

Small behavioural changes can reduce consumption, but electrical safety should always come first. If you are unsure about the condition or capacity of an installation, professional advice is the safest and most efficient next step.