Aussies are facing cost-of-living pressures left, right and centre. So, finding ways to save is critical. With energy prices significantly impacting household budgets, it makes sense to start auditing your energy usage… and start saving big on your electricity bills. With a few simple changes, it’s easy. Let’s cut down your energy usage, room by room.

How can I save more on my electricity bills?

Living room

For many families, life revolves around the living room. So, it’s one of the first places to get energy-savvy.

  • Heating and cooling: Consider your heating and cooling. In winter, aim for a heating range of 18°C – 20°C. In summer, aim for 25°C specifically. Every degree above or under these parameters can increase your energy usage by 5-10%, according to Origin Energy
  • Sealing: When it comes to sealing, close doors, draw curtains and blinds, and check for gaps around doors and windows that can cause drafts
  • Appliances: Switch off appliances at the wall, and, invest in smart plugs to schedule automatic shutdowns

Kitchen

The heart of the home is full of appliances, so it’s equally full of energy-saving opportunities.

  • Appliances: If possible, choose energy-saving appliances like slow cookers, microwaves and air fryers instead of ovens and stove-tops
  • Oven: Skip preheating when possible, and use the fan-forced setting when cooking
  • Dishwasher: Run this when it’s full and opt for economy or quick wash settings if available. If possible, run the dishwasher during the day when it’s off peak-demand times, earning you extra savings
  • Energy-efficient upgrades: If it’s time to buy a new appliance, check the energy rating labels and opt for the most energy efficient option
  • Fridge and freezer: Make sure there’s enough space around your unit to allow for air circulation which can prevent overheating. It’s also a good idea to set your fridge and freezer to recommended temperatures (per the user guide)

Home office

  • Energy-saving equipment: Plug computers, chargers, etc. into energy-saving power boards
  • Switch off: Switch equipment off at the wall once you’re finished with the work day

Bedroom

  • Curtains and blinds: Control sunlight during the summer months to regulate room temperature instead of relying on cooling. The opposite goes for winter
  • Seal drafts: Check and seal drafts around windows and doors to maintain a comfortable temperature no matter the season
  • Switch off: Switch equipment, such as a TV, off at the wall when not in use

Bathroom

  • Limit hot water: They say showering in luke-warm water is best for your skin, but it’s also an obvious hot-water saver too! Try shortening shower times and installing energy-efficient showerheads to reduce hot water consumption as well
  • Switch off: Make sure all hairdryers, chargers etc. are switched off at the wall when not in use

Laundry

  • Washing machine: Similar to the dishwasher, opt for economical settings as much as possible and run loads during the day to save on peak-demand rates
  • Cold water: Whenever possible, wash clothes in cold water and save on heating costs
  • Dryer: Avoid overloading the dryer so clothes can dry efficiently, quicker. If possible, use a drying rack or air clothes to dry outside and reduce reliance on the dryer

 

A little goes a long way. By auditing your home energy usage and family patterns, you could significantly reduce your household’s energy consumption. And, slash your electricity bills too! Let’s start saving energy and money. If you have a solar system, check out more ways you can accelerate your solar savings.