Energy Efficiency
Want to save money?
If you’re looking for ways to save some money on your energy bill, you’ve come to the right place. There’s a bunch of ways to be more energy efficient at home, some will cost you only effort while others will cost a few bucks to get up and running.
*Please note the below advice is general only, based on information from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, and should be considered in light of your personal circumstances. For more information, visit www.energy.gov.au/households.
Heating (around 20% - 50% of household energy use depending on the climate or season)
Install Insulation - In winter, up to 60% of your heating could be lost through your ceilings and walls if you don't have insulation. If you don't have ceiling insulation, consider having it installed. If you rent, ask your landlord if they will install it. Insulation can deteriorate over time, so ensure it is replaced or topped up when it's no longer effective.
Get some curtains - Up to 20% of your heating could be lost through your windows. Thick curtains and pelmets are an effective way of insulating your windows to help keep your rooms warmer.
Appliances (around 25% of household energy use)
Compare and estimate running costs - Use the
Energy Rating website
to compare running costs of appliances.Buy energy-efficient appliances - The savings can add up over the life of the appliance to more than a higher purchase price.
Use appliances efficiently - Washing clothes with cold water can save up to 10 times more energy than a warm wash.
Reduce standby power - Many appliances use power when left on, even if not in use. However, DON’T switch off fridges, freezers, security systems and medical equipment.
More tips!
Only fill the kettle and pots with the amount of water you need. Remember to use lids on pots while cooking.
Opt for air drying clothes on the line instead of using the dryer – it won't cost you a thing! If you must use the dryer, make sure to clean the lint filter after each load.
Be mindful that any items with a small light or clock are consuming power, and even your mobile phone charger continues to draw power when not in use. Turning off the power at the wall can save up to 10% of household energy usage and is a simple way to conserve energy.
Hot water (uses around 15% to 30% of household energy use)
Get the temperature right - The recommended setting for thermostats is 60°C for storage hot water systems and no more than 50°C on instantaneous systems.
Give your hot water a holiday - If you're away for more than a week, turning off your storage hot water system saves money and energy. When turning it back on allow time for the water to become hot enough to kill any bacteria that may have grown. The water must remain above 60°C for at least 35 minutes before you can safely use it. It could take several hours to reach this temperature.
Install a water-efficient showerhead - A 4-star rated showerhead could save a family of 4 (with average expenses) around $315 a year on water bills, there will also be savings on energy bills because less water will need to be heated.
Replacing a hot water system - If your system fails, replacing it with a suitable energy-efficient model can reduce energy use. Research the options in advance to avoid making a rushed decision.
Type of hot water systems
Electric – Cheap to buy and install but generally expensive to run.
Solar – Purchase and installation of these systems is generally expensive.
Heat pump – Highly efficient, uses 70% less energy than conventional electric hot water systems. They're expensive to buy but cheaper to run and come in 2 types
- Integrated with tank and compressor combined
- Split with the tank and compressor separate
Gas – Gas hot water heaters are usually installed outdoors because of venting requirements. They have medium-to-high purchase, installation and running costs. Continuous flow (also called instantaneous) is the most common type of gas water heater. Gas storage systems are particularly inefficient, especially in cold climates. They have very high heat loss because it’s not possible to insulate at the point where the gas flame is heating the tank.
Lighting (around 10% of household energy use)
Use natural light when possible - Lighter coloured furnishings and reflective surfaces also reduce the need for artificial lighting.
Use lights efficiently - Use reading lamps rather than lighting a whole room. Switch lights off when you leave the room and consider sensors for outdoor lights.
Switch to energy-efficient lighting - LEDs use around 80% less energy than old-style bulbs and last longer too.