As haze conditions drive more Malaysians to stay indoors, experts are advising households to use air-conditioning units more efficiently rather than reducing their use altogether in order to maintain comfort and manage electricity costs.

Dr. Saravanan Thambirajah, chief executive officer of the Federation of Consumer Associations of Malaysia (Fomca), highlighted the challenges posed by the combination of haze and hot weather. With doors and windows kept closed to avoid polluted air, indoor temperatures rise, increasing the reliance on air conditioning and consequently electricity consumption. He urged consumers to focus on smart usage practices rather than avoiding air conditioning during periods of poor air quality.

Dr. Saravanan recommended setting air-conditioner thermostats between 24°C and 26°C while running a fan to circulate cool air. Once the room reaches a comfortable temperature, the thermostat can be raised or the unit turned off to conserve energy. Additional measures include drawing curtains to block heat, regular cleaning of air filters, and reducing compressor workload to help maintain indoor air quality efficiently.

He stressed that saving electricity should not come at the expense of health, particularly advising people to stay hydrated, minimize strenuous outdoor activities, and protect vulnerable groups such as children and senior citizens during haze episodes.

To balance higher cooling costs, households are encouraged to cut usage of other energy-intensive appliances like water heaters and ovens, switch off unused lighting, and avoid leaving devices on standby. Selecting energy-efficient air-conditioning systems, choosing units properly sized for room dimensions, and using features such as timers or sleep modes can further improve energy management. “The key is not using less electricity, but managing it wisely,” Dr. Saravanan said.

Despite frequent complaints about rising electricity bills during haze periods, Dr. Saravanan warned against automatically blaming haze without supporting data to confirm the cause.

S. Piarapakaran, president of the Association of Water and Energy Research Malaysia and CEO of the Centre for Water and Energy Sustainability, noted that haze does not necessarily cause higher outdoor temperatures. “Generally, during haze, the temperature will not be as high as when the skies are clear and sunny,” he said, adding that haze can sometimes have a cooling effect due to reduced sunlight penetration.

Piarapakaran identified the main factor driving increased air-conditioning use as more time spent indoors rather than outdoor heat. He advised briefly opening windows before activating air conditioners to let build-up heat escape. Since air conditioners perform best in sealed rooms, he recommended sealing gaps under doors, such as bathroom doors, using towels or draft stoppers to reduce energy loss.

Together, these measures highlight a balanced approach to managing comfort and electricity consumption during Malaysia’s recurring haze episodes.