Tips for reducing energy usage
LIVING AREAS
Reduce draughts by closing windows, doors and curtains.
Set central heating / cooling to 25 degrees Celsius, each 1-degree increase of the thermostat saves about 10% on your energy usage!
Switch all appliances off at the wall.
Cover bare floorboards or tiles with carpets or rugs to add comfort but also heat retention.
Open your house up to embrace Canberra’s brilliant winter sunny days by drawing back your curtains and letting in the warm air. Close your curtains during the evening as the chill draws in.
If you are considering upgrading your AC heating/cooling system, first try and install high-performance windows, such as double glazed or spectrally selective coatings. In the long run, this one-time purchase may reduce years of heating costs through efficient insulation.
Federal rebates and assistance
KITCHEN AND LAUNDRY
Make sure your fridge has an energy efficient rating. A household fridge is constantly running and producing cold air through the thermostat, making it one of the most costly appliances. The optimal settings for your fridge are 4 to 5 degrees Celsius and for your freezer, -18 to -15 degrees Celsius.
When washing your dishes, aim to use the economy mode and always aim to have a full load before turning on the dishwasher. The same goes for the washing machine.
Wash your clothes using cold water. It takes energy to heat up water. Washing your clothes in cold water can save around $115 per year! You can increase this saving by choosing the shortest washing cycle and making sure you have a full load of washing before you begin.
Ditch the dryer and air dry your clothes.