Here we give you some ideas on ways you can save on your water, electricity and gas bills around the home
Save on your electricity bill
Save money on your power bill and reduce your carbon footprint with these ideas:
Switch off and unplug appliances
A quick and easy way to reduce your electricity bill is to turn off appliances at the powerpoint when you’re not using them. When things like computers and TVs switch into standby mode, they still use electricity, which can really add up over time.
Get into the habit of turning off and unplugging your kettle, washing machine, stereo and other items when you’re not using them.
Other ways to switch off and save are:
- Unplug your second fridge – If you have a second fridge, keep it unplugged and switched off until you need it.
- Dress for the temperature – Put on a jumper and warm socks instead of turning on the heater.
- Avoid using the dryer – Hang your washing outside on sunny days, and use an indoor clothes rack when it’s raining, instead of using the clothes dryer.
- Hot water bottle – Use a hot water bottle instead of an electric blanket. If you do use an electric blanket, turn it on to warm up the bed before you get in. Then, turn if off before you go to sleep.
Turn off the lights
Take advantage of the sun and rely on natural light as much as you can each day. When you do need to use the lights, remember to turn them off when you leave the room.
If you have a single storey home, consider installing skylights.
Shop around for a better deal on your electricity
Compare energy suppliers to make sure you’re getting the best deal. You can compare energy offers in your area by visiting the Australian Government’s Energy Made Easy website.
Close the gaps and trap the heat inside
Use a door snake under the door, and seal up any gaps or cracks around your windows, doors, ceilings and floors.
When you’re using the heater, close the door to keep the heat inside the room. Then, when the room is warm enough, switch it off. Closing your curtains or blinds at night also helps to trap the heat in.
Check the energy rating of new appliances
When you’re buying a new appliance like an air conditioner, fridge, washing machine or dishwasher, check the energy star rating. This will help you find the most efficient products and save you money in the long run.
You can save a lot of electricity by buying energy efficient light bulbs and appliances. Download the Energy Rating app to see the running costs.
Save on your water bill
Here are some ideas on ways to save water at home, lower your water bill and do your bit for the environment:
Save water in the bathroom
There are lots of ways to save water in the bathroom. Here are some ideas:
- Take shorter showers.
- Install a water efficient showerhead.
- Install a dual flush on your toilet.
- Turn off the tap when you brush your teeth.
Fix plumbing leaks around the house
Dripping taps and leaking toilets are not only annoying – they could be adding extra costs to your water bill. Get these leaks fixed as soon as you spot them.
To check for hidden leaks, look at the reading on your water meter, then leave the house so that no-one uses water for a couple of hours. When you get back home, check the reading again. If it has changed, there is a hidden leak and you should call a plumber to fix it.
Save water to re-use on your garden
Look for ways to re-use water wherever you can.
Save the water you use when boiling eggs, vegetables or pasta, and use it to water your plants. You can also water your plants with grey water from your washing machine or shower.
Save water in the kitchen and laundry
- Put a plug in the sink if you’re running the tap to wash dishes by hand or rinse fruit and vegetables.
- Only use the washing machine and the dishwasher when they are full. Otherwise, adjust the water level to match a partial load.
- Wash clothes with cold water.
- Lower the temperature on your hot water system to 60°C.
Save on your gas bill
If you use gas to power your hot water system, cooking appliances or to heat your home, here are some ideas to reduce the amount you use:
Lower the temperature on your hot water heater
You likely won’t notice a huge difference when you shower or run a bath if you turn down your hot water heater a few degrees. You could also consider installing solar panels with a gas booster, allowing the sun to heat up the water in the day, and the booster when the sun isn’t warm enough.
Turn down your gas heater
Turning down your gas heating by just a few degrees can save you money on your bill. You’re also not likely to notice a huge difference in temperature if you lower it slightly.
Save gas in the kitchen
Turn your stove top or oven off just before the food is done, allowing it to cook with the residual heat from the oven, frypan or pot.
Dress warmly and rug up
If your feet are cold, your whole body is cold. Put on some warm socks instead of turning on the gas heater. If you’re still cold, put on a jumper or curl up under a blanket.
Trap the heat inside your home
Use a door snake under the door, and seal up any gaps or cracks around your windows, doors, ceilings and floors. When you’re using your gas heater, close the doors and close your curtains to keep the heat inside the room.
Shop around for a better deal on your gas
Compare energy suppliers to make sure you’re getting the best deal. You can compare energy offers in your area by visiting the Australian Government’s Energy Made Easy website.
Your energy and water bills don’t need to cost the earth. There are lots of little things you can do today to lower your costs around the house.
This article was originally published at www.moneysmart.gov.au/managing-your-money/budgeting/simple-ways-to-save-money/how-to-save-water-and-electricity
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