Whether you have solar panels installed or not, it is important to be proactive about minimising your household energy use. Not only will you be reducing your electricity bill, but you will feel good knowing you’re looking out for the environment!
Here are some tips and tricks to make your home more energy efficient:
Not using it? Turn it off
Make sure you turn off all lights and heating or cooling when you leave the house.
It’s also a good idea to switch off ALL of your electrical appliances at the powerpoint (or even unplug them from the wall) when you’re going on holidays or leaving the house for an extended period of time. That includes printers, internet routers, televisions, toasters, kettles, phone chargers etc.
Change your bulbs
LED light bulbs are up to 80% more energy efficient than regularly light bulbs. They also last longer, so making the switch is a win win!
Heating up and cooling off
Heating and cooling systems are some of the most energy (and money) hungry users in your home. A simple way to reduce the costs of heating and cooling is to shut your doors and draw your curtains closed, trapping the hot or cold air inside.
Close the doors of the rooms/areas you want to heat or cool as well, and only turn on these appliances in rooms/areas that you spend the most time.
Drawing your curtains closed will help seal your windows – stopping the warm or cool air from escaping.
Be smart about your laundry
When you can, wash your clothes in cold water and make sure you are only starting a washing cycle when the machine is full.
Clothes dryers are extremely energy hungry appliances, so if possible, try dry your clothes naturally outside or use a fan to dry them inside. It may take slightly longer, but it’s worth it! Plus, the sunshine acts a natural antibacterial treatment, giving your washing an extra level of cleanliness.
Anything broken or not working properly?
When an appliance is broken, defective or needs servicing, it doesn’t work as efficiently. Have a walk through of your house and ensure that all appliances are in good working condition.
Things to check:
- Fridge and freezer door seals – broken seals can let cool air out, making your fridge work harder to keep a constant temperature.
- Dishwasher filters – clean or replace your filters to make your dishwasher run as well as possible.
- Heating and cooling appliances – make sure you are regularly servicing your heating and cooling systems.
When checking appliances, consider how old it is. Newer appliances are far more energy efficient than older models. Appliances on the market now, are rated on a 6-star energy efficiency rating system. The more stars, the more energy-efficient the product is, in comparison to other models in its category.
So there you have it! Save some $$ by utilising these handy home hints. It doesn’t take much but over the long term, these small changes will make a big difference to your expense bills.
