Many expats get a shock from their first electricity bill in Vietnam. Here's how it usually works for renters and how to keep it under control.

How the official price works

The national utility, EVN, charges households in tiers: the more electricity you use in a month, the higher the price per kWh for the extra usage. Heavy air-conditioner use pushes you into the higher tiers.

How landlords often charge

Many landlords don't pass on the EVN bill directly. Instead they charge one fixed price per kWh, read from a separate meter. That price varies a lot between landlords, so ask for the exact number before you sign.

Protect yourself

• Photograph the meter on move-in day.
• Photograph it again at the end of every month, before the landlord reads it.
• Ask for the reading and the price in writing (a message is enough).

How to use less

• Air conditioner: set it around 26–27°C, close doors and windows, and clean the filter regularly.
• Water heater: switch it off when you don't need hot water.
• Fridge: don't leave the door open; keep it away from the stove.
• Standby devices: turn off power strips at night.

More renter tips every day on Facebook: Zyzymart