Ways to save on your electricity costs

Lights

  •  Replace incandescent light globes with fluorescent bulbs that can save up to 75% of your lighting costs.
  •  Turn lights off in rooms not being used.
  •  Install timers, automatic switches and daylight or movement sensors for outside lighting.

Appliances

  •  Turn off your television, sound system and computer when no-one is using them. Remember if the standby light is on, they are using electricity.

Air conditioning

  •  Run your air conditioner at the recommended temperature in summer of 24°C – 27°C. Every 1°C cooler will increase your energy costs by around 10 to 15%.
  •  Keep the curtains closed for rooms that are westerly facing to block out the sun in the afternoon.
  •  Use ceiling fans rather than air conditioning or in conjunction with your air conditioner.

Hot water

  •  Turn of your electric hot water if you are going on holidays.
  •  Lower the temperature of your hot water system
  •  Installing a solar-boosted hot water unit can save you up to 90% of your hot water costs on a sunny day.
  •  Repair any dripping taps. A hot water tap dripping can cost your money not only the heating but the cost of the water.
  •  Install new AAA rated shower rose, and save about 25% of hot water energy.
  •  Take a four minute shower, remember the less hot water you use showering or bathing, the less you need to heat.

Kitchen

  •  Cook some food in a microwave they use 70% less electricity than ovens.
  •  Buy energy efficient appliances.
  •  Ensure oven seals are not broken.
  •  Only run the dishwasher with a full load.
  •  On hot days wash up and let your dishes dry on the rack.
  •  Limit the amount of time you open the fridge on a hot day.
  •  Set your fridge between 3°C and 4°C and your freezer between minus 15°C and 18°C. Every 1°C lower will increase your energy costs by around 5%.
  •  Turn off spare fridges and freezers when not in use.
  •  Make sure your fridge is out of direct sunlight and heating cooking appliances.

Laundry

  •  Use cold water for everyday washing
  •  Don’t overload the washing machine.
  •  Front-loading washing machines are up to 15% more energy efficient than top loading machines.
  •  Hang clothes on the line where possible rather than using clothes driers.
  •  Put clothes on a n extra spin cycle before going into the drier