WINTER ENERGY SAVING TIPS

Winter is here and we all need to start thinking about how to stay warm, and still save energy... to keep greenhouse gas emissions down along with our energy accounts!

Here are Australian Power & Gas' Top Tips for saving energy this winter, so you can stay warm and spend less.

If you'd like more information about how your home is using energy, call our friendly customer service team who can help you conduct a Home Energy Assessment. Call us on 133 298 anytime between 8am and 7pm Monday to Friday or between 9am and 4pm on Saturdays.

TOP TIPS FOR SAVING ENERGY

1. Don’t crank up the heat

Operate your heater efficiently by setting the thermostat no higher than 19 or 20 degrees Celsius, and you’ll start saving right away. Each degree above this temperature will cost you around 10% extra in running costs!

2. Plug the gaps to stop draughts

Heat escapes through gaps under doors, the chimney and through windows that are open or without curtains.  Make sure you plug any gaps with a door snake or anything that will prevent heat escaping. Close the doors to rooms that aren’t being used and put up heavy curtains to stop heat loss. 

3. Take shorter showers to save hot water

Use a shower timer to help you take shorter showers, or contact your local council to ask them about water efficient shower heads. They’ll save up to 10 Litres per minute, and they won’t affect the shower quality much at all.

4. Use energy efficient appliances

Often, the cheapest appliances to buy are the most expensive to run.  The star ratings on appliances is a good guide, and remember, we use the most energy on space heating and hot water, so spend wisely on those appliances.

5. Install energy saving light globes

A simple way to save money, and help the environment, is to install energy efficient light globes. 

6. Don’t forget the little things

a. Turn off appliances at the wall when they’re not in use (to avoid standby use)
b. Put on a jumper instead of turning up the heater and make sure the kids do the same
c. Dry clothes on the line rather than in the dryer, or inside when the heater is turned on. If you do use the dryer, spin dry clothes on high first and this will save on drying time.
d. Get rid of the drinks fridge – it’ll save you around $150 a year!