Tips for saving energy at home

Here are some steps you can take to save energy around your home:

Living areas

In summer, keep cool by closing windows, doors, curtains and blinds.
In summer, try to use fans instead of air conditioners, and if you use your air conditioner, set it to 26 degrees.
In winter, reduce draughts by closing windows, doors and curtains.
Set central heating to 18 degrees.
Put in LED lights and turn them off when not needed.
Switch off appliances at the wall – some appliances keep using energy if you don't do this.

Kitchen

Make sure there is plenty of space around your fridge.
Check that the fridge seals keep the doors firmly closed.
Make sure the fridge isn't too full.
Cover pots and pans to reduce cooking time.
Wait until the dishwasher is full, then put it on.

Bathroom and laundry

Use cold water for washing.
If you prefer to use hot water, set it to 60 degrees.
Wait until the washing machine is full, then put it on.
Use a clothes line instead of the dryer.
Put in low-flow shower heads – ask at your hardware store.
Have shorter showers that are no more than 4 minutes.

Pools

If you're getting a new pool, don't go for the biggest.
Use a pool cover to keep the heat in and put in an efficient filter pump.
If you want a heated pool, think about a solar heating system.
Only put in the lighting you need.

Building or renovating?

If you're building or renovating, think about how energy efficient you can make your home. This could save you money in the long run.

Here are some energy saving ideas to think about:

Insulation – this keeps the house warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Ceiling fans – they use less energy than air conditioners.
LED lights – they use much less energy than other lights.
Light switches – consider having one light per switch instead of having one switch that turns on more than one light.
Solar hot water system – check if you can get a government rebate to install one of these.
Gas ovens and cooktops – these are usually cheaper to run than electric versions.
Double glazing for windows and doors – these keep the house warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

Tip

There's a lot of information available to help you understand your options when building or renovating. Visit the Australian Government's Your Home for more information.

Visit the Australian Government's energy.gov.au website for home energy saving tips in more than 30 languages, advice on energy efficient appliances and a government rebate and assistance finder. The energy.gov.au website also has detailed information and tips specifically for the 3 climate zones in Northern Australia.