Be energy efficient
Being energy efficient is a great way to reduce your electricity bills and your impact on the environment. Below, you will find some handy tips and information that will help you become more energy efficient.
- Always close your curtains, shades or blinds during the hottest part of the day to keep you cool.
- Close doors and air conditioner vents in unused rooms to keep the cool or warm air in the popular areas of your house.
- Reduce the time your freezer and fridge doors are open.
- Cut back your use of any large, non-essential electrical appliances, such as your dryer, during times of high electricity use, such as the hottest part of the day during summer.
- Use shade to save cooling costs by setting up a pergola, some wide eaves, awnings and curtains. This will keep the ground and air temperature cool in those areas.
- Plant deciduous trees that shade you in summer but still allow the sun to warm you in winter.
- Keep appliances like your TV and lamps away from the air conditioner thermostat.
- Raise your air conditioner thermostat by three degrees in summer.
- Only use your air conditioner when you need it. Don't leave it running when you are asleep or not at home. If you have to leave it on, you should raise your thermostat.
- Clean your air conditioner filters.
When building a property
- Keep in mind how you plan to organise your home or building, for example, where you will place each room, as this can influence the amount of heat in certain rooms.
- Insulation under timber floors, in ceilings and in walls helps keep you cool and prevents air-conditioned air to escape.
- Installing double brick walls and concrete floors, plus sealing any gaps or holes in the exterior of your home, all contribute to your home or buildings energy efficiency.
Appliance information
Using energy efficient appliances can reduce your energy costs and your impact on the environment.
Energy Rating Australia and the State Government's website provide a range of information regarding energy efficient appliances. They also provide information on grants available to help you reduce your energy consumption in your home.