Tips to save on energy

Tips to reduce your energy use

• Don't spend energy on appliances you aren't using

  You can reduce running costs by turning off your lights, heating and cooling when you're not in the room.

  In addition, many appliances keep using energy even when they are in stand-by mode. Make sure you turn them off at the wall when not in use and consider using an energy saving power board.

• Heat and cool more efficiently

  Heating and cooling appliances use a lot of energy. In fact, heating and cooling contributes 40% of the average Australian household's energy bill.

  Fans are a low-energy and effective way to stay cool, and natural ventilation (breezes) can also help to make your home cooler for free.

  If you're using air-conditioning or heating, set the temperature as high as is comfortable in summer and as low as is comfortable in winter — each extra degree of heating or cooling increases energy use by about 5–10%.

• Lower your lighting costs

  To reduce your lighting bill, you can take advantage of natural light through the day and use lamps in the evening.

  For hardwired lighting, consider swapping to light emitting diode (LED) bulbs. A good quality LED can use about 75% less energy than a halogen light bulb. LEDs also last much longer.

• Keep your heating and cooling indoors

  If warm air is escaping from your home in winter and hot air is entering in summer, your home will be less comfortable, and you'll need to use more energy to control the temperature.

  Stop draughts by sealing gaps around doors, floors, windows and skirting boards. You can also use curtains to help keep the heat in (or out) of your home.

• Save on water heating

  Did you know about 25% of the average Australian energy bill is associated with water heating?

  You can reduce your hot water costs by only running the dishwasher and clothes washer when full, using a cold wash, having shorter showers, and using a low-flow showerhead.

• Check for financial assistance

  Visit Rebates and assistance on energy.gov.au to see if you qualify for any financial assistance, such as electricity concessions, rebates or no-interest loans for energy efficient appliances.