There are many simple, effective ways that you can reduce your household’s energy usage.

Take a look at our energy-saving tips, and learn more about the energy usage of different household appliances below.

Hot water

Regardless of the type of hot water heater you have, everyone can save energy and water by following these tips:

• Taking shorter showers.
• Installing a water-saving shower head (AAA-rated) can reduce the water used from 22L per minute to just 9L per minute.
• Less water used means less energy used to heat the water.
• Immediately repair dripping hot water taps.
• When doing the dishes, fill the sink with just the water you need instead of leaving hot taps running.
• Ensure that the temperature on your hot water storage tank is set at 60 degrees Celsius. Higher than this will use gas and electricity unnecessarily, but a lower temperature may allow bacteria to thrive. The temperature on an instantaneous system should be no more than 50 degrees Celsius.
• If you have a hot water storage tank system, turn it off when you go on holiday.
• Maintain your hot water system every five years.

Heating

Save money on your heating costs by:

• Lowering the temperature on the thermostat – a couple of degrees will make all the difference.
• Buy some thicker curtains. These will help keep the heat in, and limit the amount of time the heating needs to be on in winter.
• Thicker duvets and blankets on your bed will also limit the need for heating.
• Consider putting the heating on a timer so it automatically switches off. It can be very easy to forget to switch your heating off.

Lighting

• Turn off lights in rooms you are not using.
• Consider using a lamp rather than overhead lights.
• Change old globes to energy-efficient fluorescent globes.

Washing machine

Some washing machines use hot water via a hot water inlet, whereas others take in cold water and heat it within the washing machine. Washing in cold water will effectively clean clothes and remove stains.

• Consider using warmer water only for heavily soiled clothes or bedding.
• Washing your clothes on a cold water cycle will generally save energy.
• Making sure you have a full load when using your washing machine will also help.

Energy-efficient appliances

By choosing energy-efficient appliances, you can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save money on your gas and electricity bills.

When purchasing new appliances, consider the size and features you need in your appliance, then look closely at the Energy Star Rating labels. You can use the ratings to compare the energy efficiency and running costs of different appliances.

Additionally:

• Don’t leave your appliances in standby mode, turn them off at the wall.
• Check your fridge seals to ensure they are intact and not letting out cool air.

For more ways to beat the chill and bill shock, check out more of our saving energy tips.