Top 5 Ways to Save Electricity at Home

We're lucky in this country to enjoy a climate that's ripe for energy conservation. We also have access to a wealth of resources that can assist us in becoming more energy-efficient. However, the sheer volume of options available to us can feel overwhelming. Where do you start, then?

That’s where Cyber Electrical comes in, with the top five ways to save electricity at home. These simple, practical energy saving tips can help you contribute to a more sustainable future without breaking the bank.

1. Switch to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Making the switch to energy-efficient appliances is a crucial step in your journey to save electricity. Australia’s energy rating system makes it easy for you to identify these appliances. Simply look for the star rating – the more stars an appliance has, the more energy efficient it is. This information can be found on the Australian Government’s energy rating website.

Just a few things to remember:

• Old appliances are major energy guzzlers. Whenever financially feasible, consider replacing them with higher star-rated ones that help you to save energy.
• Small changes count too. For example, you can significantly reduce electricity costs simply by switching from conventional light globes to LED bulbs. LEDs use much less energy and last significantly longer than traditional bulbs, making them a smart choice for every household.

Whether you’re looking for a more energy efficient kitchen, or want to install gas heating that will lessen the impact on your electricity bill, energy ratings will go a long way to helping you make smarter choices.

2. Consider Your Heating and Cooling Practices

Heating and cooling often take up anywhere between 20-50% of household energy use. Therefore, changing your climate control habits can be an effective way to save electricity. Instead of relying too much on your air conditioner, consider adopting efficient alternatives and practices that reduce energy usage, such as:

• Using ceiling or pedestal fans instead of air conditioning units whenever the weather warrants it. Fans typically consume significantly less energy than HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, all while still providing a comfortable breeze.
• Installing insulation in your home. Proper insulation ensures your home stays warm in winter and cool in summer, reducing the need for constant temperature control through air conditioning.
• Make the most of window coverings. Curtains, blinds, or shutters can block out the scorching Australian heat during the day and retain warmth at night. They are also great to help you make better use of natural light and reduce lighting costs throughout the day.

Some of these changes may be small and require little to no initial financial expense. Others, such as installing insulation, may be a little more costly. However, it will add value to your home and provide the results you need by enabling you to save power.

3. Save Electricity By Implementing Solar Power

As Australians, we’re fortunate to have an abundance of sunshine throughout the year. So why not save electricity by taking advantage of this natural resource? Installing solar panels at home can significantly reduce your energy costs and your dependence on grid electricity. The benefits are twofold:

• Solar energy helps you to slash your electricity bill.
• Any excess power generated can often be fed back into the grid, potentially earning you credits.

Before you pull the ladder out of the shed and rush out to install a solar PV system on the roof, you must do your research. The Clean Energy Council’s guide to switching to solar is a great starting point. It provides a wealth of in-depth information about buying solar panels, choosing the most suitable solar energy system for your home, and understanding the various government incentives that you might be eligible to receive.

4. Adjust Your Habits For Better Energy Efficiency

Did you know you can have a major effect on how much energy you use in your home without spending a cent? Being mindful of your day-to-day habits and routines, and making simple, energy-smart adjustments, can go a long way in your quest to save electricity.

Here are a few energy-smart habits you can start today:

• Make it a point to switch off lights whenever you leave a room. It’s a small action that can add up over time.
• Unplug devices from the power point when they’re not in use. Standby power can account for a surprising amount of electricity usage.
• Use cold water instead of hot water on your washing machine. Energy use is far less
• Use the cold wash setting on your washing machine. It uses far less energy than warm cycles and, for most loads of washing, can be just as effective.

Remember, these small energy saving tips might not seem like much on their own, but when combined, they can lead to significant savings on your energy bill and overall running costs.

5. Regular Maintenance and Upgrades Help Save Energy

You can significantly improve the efficiency and lifespan of your major electric appliances and systems with regular, scheduled maintenance. Over time, they can accumulate dust and grime. This means they have to work harder than necessary to deliver the same performance, which means they use more electricity.

Proper upkeep with simple tasks like cleaning your air conditioner filters and servicing the panels of your solar hot water system, can help you to reduce energy consumption and save electricity.

Moreover, staying on top of technological advancements can also help. When it’s time to replace an appliance, opt for a model that offers superior energy efficiency.

All In All …

In conclusion, saving electricity at home isn’t just about reducing your bills – it’s about contributing to a more sustainable Australia with fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

These top five methods, from upgrading to energy-efficient appliances and being savvy about heating and cooling, to harnessing solar energy, adopting energy-smart habits, and keeping to a regular maintenance schedule, can make a significant difference and help you to save electricity. They all highlight that everyone can play a part, and every little bit truly does help.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.