Saudi housewives are the most frugal users of energy in their homes and the most likely to switch off air conditioners and lights, a recent survey found.

The survey conducted by the Saudi Energy Efficiency Center (SEEC), a government body, found that mothers switch off air conditioners and lights 81 and 79 percent of the time respectively.

The survey also found that 70 percent of those surveyed monitor their maids' energy use at home. However, 48 percent of those surveyed did not know when there was peak consumption in the country, and 46 percent said they have rising electricity bills.

The survey was conducted before the SEEC launched its Energy Efficiency Program. It also found that 77 percent of men urge their wives and children to use electricity sparingly at home, and would also hold family discussions on electricity bills.

"Over 43 percent agree that homes should be insulated but 19 percent thought that this didn’t make any difference. While 56 percent said they don’t leave air conditioners on if they are not in a room, 33 percent said they do," the survey said.

According to the survey, 55 percent of men said they only consider the manufacturer's name and price when buying an air conditioner, while 17 percent said they look at other factors. A total of 51.5 percent said they regularly maintain their home electrical equipment, while 48 percent said they rely on their wives when buying electrical equipment.