With the increasing price of electricity, we’ve put together several ways you can save money on your electricity bills and help the environment.
1. USE THERMAL MASS & THERMAL LAG TO YOUR ADVANTAGE.
Materials with high thermal mass are typically heavyweight construction materials such as concrete. Thermal mass is the ability of a material to absorb, store and release heat, where thermal lag is the rate at which a material releases stored heat. Typically, the higher the thermal mass, the longer the thermal lag. In mixed climates that require heating in winter and cooling in summer, using concrete as a building material (structural and flooring), can help to passively heat and cool your home at low cost.
2. ENERGY EFFICIENT LIGHTING
When it comes to lighting, the best way to save money is to switch off lights when not using them and to replace old bulbs with energy efficient Light LED bulbs.
LED bulbs have a significantly longer life span vs traditional incandescent bulbs and fluorescent lights, so even if you pay more for them at purchase, you save money over time.
When it comes to your garden and outdoor settings, solar lighting is another great way to save on your electricity bills!
3. INSULATION
Insulation will help you attain an energy efficient house and in turn save money. Insulation acts as a barrier to heat loss and heat gain, especially in ceilings, walls and floors. If your home has inadequate insulation, heat escapes during winter and unwanted heat gets inside during summer.
4. INSTALL ENERGY EFFICIENT APPLIANCES & HOT WATER SYSTEMS
The upfront price is one factor to consider when weighing up the cost of your appliance, the other is your running costs. You could save a considerable amount of money when you select an energy efficient rated appliance.
For appliances you already have, it’s a good idea to check the energy rating and weigh up the replacement cost vs continuing to use them.
Air conditioners
Clothes dryers
Coffee machines
Computer monitors
Dishwashers
Fridges
Freezers
Fans & Heaters
Televisions
Washing machines
Select the product with the highest number of stars. Also consider the rating for water use on products such as washing machines and dishwashers, which can also impact the cost of your water bills.
5. CONTROL STANDBY POWER WASTAGE
Switch off appliances at the wall to save money or install a Standby Power Controller (SPC).
6. SOLAR
For most households, solar is a fantastic way to start saving on your electricity bills, and if you have an electric car, save again on your petrol bills!
When obtaining quotes for a solar install, ensure you consider your current bills and the payback period of your solar install, along with duration you will be occupying your existing home to ensure your investment is viable.
There is currently (as at 2022) a government rebate in NSW, this rebate decreases annually over the next 9 years. Check your respective states for rebate information.
Other considerations include; product warranties and installation warranties, the number of years your installer has been in business and if they are using sub-contractors or staff to install your system. It’s also a good idea to peruse Google reviews and solar forums.
7. REVIEW YOUR ENERGY BILLS
Compare energy provider rates with market options.
If you already have solar, compare the feed-in-tariff rebate of your current provider vs market options.
If your water system isn’t already set to off-peak, consider if this suits your household needs and the savings.
8. SAVVY USAGE TIPS
If you don’t have solar, use items such as washing machines, dryers’ and dishwashers during off-peak periods (when your cost is lowest). Check your bill or contact your retailer for these times.
For those with solar (without a backup battery) use the items noted above and air-conditioning (when possible) during high solar production periods.
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