How to Save Power in Your Home – Top 10 Tips

If you’re concerned about rising electricity prices, you’re not alone. According to a recent CHOICE Consumer Pulse Report, three in 10 Australians are struggling to get by on their current income, and are particularly worried about their power bills, with electricity coming in at the No 1 cost concern – even above food or medical expenses.

So, what can you do about it? You may not be able stop the prices going up, but you can try to use less power and therefore have a smaller bill to pay. There are plenty of ways to do this. Check out our top 10 tips below to get started.

Top 10 tips for saving electricity

1. Make the most of technology. Look at fitting your home with smart energy-saving technologies like solar panels, solar hot water and LED lighting – Contact us to explore your options
2. Get rid of extras. What extra appliances are chewing up unnecessary power in your home? eg. do you really need that extra fridge or freezer? If you do, does it need to be on every day or just at Christmas?
3. Buy smart. When you buy new appliances, make sure they are energy efficient. Look for the star rating on the front and choose the one with the most stars.
4. Maintain your appliances. Make sure your appliances are working as well as they can. eg. defrost your freezer; make sure your fridge seals are in good order; get your air conditioner serviced.
5. Switch to economy. Can you switch your hot water system or pool pump to an economy tariff? (This gives you discounted electricity during certain hours.) Talk to your electricity provider.
6. Get a bigger discount. Is your electricity provider giving you the best deal? Shop around to find out who can.
7. Turn it off at the switch. Turn appliances off at the power switch, so they don’t sit on standby 24 hours a day. eg. Use power boards that have individual switches for each appliance.
8. Check your hot water system. Is it the right size for your needs? Is it energy efficient? Are the pipes well insulated? Is it close to where you need the hot water? (eg. your kitchen)
9. Lights down. Use sensors and low wattage bulbs (eg. LEDs). Turn off lights when you’re leaving a room. Can you make use of natural light by installing a sky light, sky tube or solar tube? Contact us to explore your options.
10. Think about your habits. Can you hang your clothes on the line rather than use the dryer? Can you wash in cold water instead of hot? Use power when you need it, rather than out of habit.