For many condo owners in Metro Manila, saving on electricity is a constant concern. But according to Fitz Villafuerte, a Registered Financial Planner (RFP), the most expensive mistake happens even before you plug anything in—when you bring the wrong appliances into your small space.
“Bringing your 2HP air conditioner from home and into your 20-sqm condo unit will just result in wasted energy and higher electric bills,” Fitz shared in an exclusive interview with Financial Adviser PH.
It may seem convenient to reuse what you already own, but Fitz says this approach can backfire. Appliances are designed with specific room sizes in mind, and mismatching them leads to inefficiency—and unnecessary costs.
Many first-time condo dwellers don’t realize that oversized appliances not only waste energy, but also make living uncomfortable. Overpowered air conditioners cool spaces too quickly, leading to short cycling and increased wear and tear on the unit. Worse, your electric bill continues to rise without delivering proportional comfort.
Fitz emphasized the importance of understanding your actual lifestyle before making purchases. One story he shared illustrates the point clearly.
“A friend bought an electric stove for his condo even though he doesn’t really cook. He says that it seems necessary to have one,” Fitz said. It’s a common mindset—thinking that every home should have all the standard appliances. But when lifestyle doesn’t match usage, you end up paying more for something you rarely use.
“He later admits that he usually just uses it to reheat food he bought outside. That’s when I told him to sell the stove and replace it with a microwave oven, which uses less electricity for that purpose.”
This small shift—from electric stove to microwave—not only matched the friend’s daily routine better, but also brought long-term savings on energy bills.
The lesson? Don’t shop based on assumptions. Shop based on your space and actual usage. Ask yourself: Do I really use this appliance often? Is it sized appropriately for my unit? What’s the most energy-efficient option for my needs?
Condo living offers many advantages—convenience, proximity, and access to amenities. But the compact space requires intentional decisions. Oversized or underused appliances create silent expenses that pile up over time.
“Bringing your 2HP air conditioner from home and into your 20-sqm condo unit will just result in wasted energy and higher electric bills,” Fitz repeated. It’s not just about what you buy—it’s about what fits your space and serves your habits efficiently.
