Australia is a land of scorching summers and rising energy costs, so the need for energy conservation, especially on the hottest days of the year, is becoming more of a necessity.Here are some ways to save on electricity during the summer months. Energy Saving Appliances Appliance usage accounts for about one-third of a home’s energy consumption. This consumption comes from the largest appliances in the home, such as the refrigerator. If you’re particularly concerned about your energy consumption, do an analysis of your appliances and then look into energy-efficient models.Checking the energy rating on an appliance before purchasing is a good place to start. Go by the energy star rating - the more stars a product has, the more energy efficient it is! And remember, only buy what will best fit the needs of your home. If you’re a household of two, no need to splash out on a large fridge. How to be a smart energy user Ensure that all doors and windows are tightly secured when the air conditioner is on, and turn off bathroom and kitchen extractor fans when not needed Make sure your AC is well-tuned – this helps it work more efficiently If you live in a house, Install attic insulation to improve energy efficiency Block out the sun as much as possible with blinds, shades and curtains; even trees and big pot plants can do the trick! Automate your energy-savings by using thermostats and electric power sockets on a timer Where possible, use the cold water setting on your washing machine – the detergent will work just as well and you could save up to 40% on electricity! Unplug appliances when they’re not being used Making a few simple changes around the home can go a long way towards reducing your electricity usage during the summer months. From choosing energy-efficient appliances to adjusting everyday habits, small steps can help keep your home comfortable while lowering running costs. By being more mindful of how and when you use energy, you can stay cool through the warmer months without putting unnecessary pressure on your power bill.
