You know times are tough when you are scared to open your electricity bill. If checking your energy account is a stressful experience, it’s worth investigating small changes that can add up to big energy savings.
Breaking the cycle of unaffordable electricity
Energy is getting more expensive, and unless you live off-grid, you can’t fully eliminate power bills. However, some manageable lifestyle changes can trim household energy usage and significantly lower your power bill. Here, we explore energy-saving ideas that will put money back in your pocket.
Factors that affect your electricity bill
Consumer preferences are rapidly changing in response to high electricity and gas prices. On the flip side, the costs associated with solar, wind, and battery storage are falling. Emerging technologies also play a role, so it’s no surprise that many people are looking for the sweet spot where they have greater control over their power bills. Factors that affect energy use include:
- The weather and climate in your location.
- The size of your home.
- The design of your home.
- The number of hours your home receives direct sunshine daily.
- Heating and cooling for your home.
- The size and number of appliances in your home.
- Your appliance’s energy efficiency capabilities.
- Cooking, showering, and clothes washing routines.
A good first step toward lowering energy bills is to look at what uses the most energy in your home. The usual culprits include fridges, freezers, air conditioners (thermostats), hot water systems, ovens/cooktops, washing machines, dryers, pools, and spas. So how do you find the happy medium between convenience and cost?
Easy steps to start saving up to $760 per year for a family of 4
More energy consumption equals bigger power bills, and the reverse is also true. Here are some energy-saving tips for the average household in Australia.
- Ditch the second fridge. Savings will add up to around $172 per year.
- Use the clothesline once a week instead of the dryer and save around $79.00 per year.
- Turn consoles, chargers, and other devices off at the switch for savings close to $193 per year.
- Use a water-efficient showerhead for up to $315 of savings on water heating costs per year.
- Avoid using major appliances at peak times when electricity costs are highest.
- Switch your thermostat, heaters, and fans off when they are not needed.
- Keep the cold out and let the sunshine in by adjusting your curtains.
* Source: Department of the Environment and Energy
More energy-saving tips for Australian households
The above strategies result in immediate savings. Now, let’s focus on fine-tuning your energy-saving initiatives. Every dollar saved is a small victory that will add up to big annual savings.
1. Switch off your lights
The average Australian home has 37 lights. This equates to around 10% of annual household electricity bills. Turn the lights off when leaving the room for immediate savings.
2. Use LED lights
Incandescent LED bulbs use about 75% less energy than other lightbulbs. They also last about 10 times longer than regular halogen lightbulbs. LEDs cost a little more, but the running costs pay off over time.
3. Adjust the air conditioner and heater at energy-efficient settings
Heating and cooling make up about 40% of energy use in the average Australian home. Avoid cooling dramatically in summer and heating your home like a furnace in winter. Moderation is key to major energy bill savings. Keep cool air in and hot air out (or vice versa) by closing the curtains.
4. Switch to a cold wash
Your water heater can work less. Wash clothes using cold water instead of hot water and save around 85% on clothes-washing energy costs. Your clothes will get clean, and they will also last longer.
5. Plan for energy-efficient cooking times
It seems hardly anyone eats as a family anymore. It’s understandable, as we all have individual routines for work, school, and play. Plan the menu and cook multiple dishes in the oven simultaneously for energy-efficiency. Only heat as much water as you need to minimise the boiling time.
6. Don’t over-charge your devices
Your phone and devices might be 100% charged, but your charger won’t know it. The charger will continue to draw power and use energy day and night until you switch it off. Most devices only take an hour or two to fully charge.
7. Save entertainment centre energy
Did you know that entertainment accounts for around 5% of household electricity usage? Gaming consoles, computers, and TVs are getting bigger, the resolution is crisper, and everything can be connected to the internet for smart home connectivity. But it all comes at a cost. Switch everything off at the wall when not in use and save.
8. Upgrade appliances for energy efficiency
Inefficient older appliances are power-hungry. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances with high energy-star ratings will lower your electricity bills. Energy ratings are clearly labelled on all new appliances sold in Australia. You may be eligible for a rebate to help offset costs.
* Use a full load for dishwashers and washing machines to save even more.
9. Insulate for long-term savings
Look into appropriate insulation to reduce your home energy heating and cooling costs. Insulated walls, floors, and ceilings can save up to 15% on cooling costs and a further 45% on heating costs. Rebates may be available.
10. Install solar panels for sustainability
Australia is ideal for capturing solar power energy. Your power bills can be reduced significantly, and the upfront purchase and installation cost can be recouped within 3 to 5 years. Solar energy doesn’t create harmful emissions.
Bonus tip: switch energy providers with GoSwitch
The GoSwitch energy price comparison search tool will uncover the best energy deals for your postcode. If your circumstances have changed, you are moving home, or the contract incentives and introductory rewards have expired, now is a good time to switch to a new energy provider (retailer).
Why customers choose the GoSwitch price comparison service
It can often feel like your energy supplier has got you over a barrel, but that’s not necessarily true. You can use a comparison site like GoSwitch to help you identify competitive deals from gas and electricity suppliers in your area. Your GoSwitch energy consultant will help you find the best energy plan for your home. Our service to you is 100% free, with no obligation. The savings are all yours to keep.
Find energy quotes in Australia.
* For even more savings with GoSwitch, use our price comparison service for business electricity, competitive gas deals, cheaper internet, and affordable private health insurance.
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