Energy Coach - December 2024

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The stakes only get higher for your energy usage—and your potential savings—as the temperature heads towards its summertime peak. Whether you're planning a well-deserved holiday break or looking forward to a bit of 'staycation' time at home, there are plenty of ways to optimise your home's energy usage while maintaining comfort. Here's our guide to making your home more energy-efficient this December.

Beat The December Heat

Smart Cooling Strategies

The summer heat brings the highest average energy consumption and bill costs across the grid, but that doesn't have to include your home. Be smart, stay cool, and save money.

Start by setting your air conditioning thermostat no lower than 24-26°C – of course, it's tempting to set the aircon low and get that refreshingly chilly blast of air on a hot day, but every extra degree cooler will increase your energy consumption by up to 10%.

Try using your ceiling fans with air conditioning to improve air circulation and allow you to maintain the temperature a bit higher while maintaining comfort.

Air conditioning systems are often the largest energy consumers in Australian homes, especially during hot summers.

Install or check your external window shading – awnings, blinds, or shade cloths can block up to 80% of summer heat gain. For immediate results, close curtains and blinds during the hottest parts of the day, especially on north and west-facing windows.

Holiday Tips

If you're heading away for the holidays, don't just switch everything off at the wall (though that's a good idea). Clean your refrigerator and freezer, consolidate contents, and adjust the temperature settings slightly higher – but ensure food safety is maintained. For extended absences, consider emptying and switching off your fridge altogether.

If you’ll be staying home and entertaining, be strategic about appliance use. Run your dishwasher only when full and during off-peak hours, typically late evening. When cooking Christmas lunch, maximise oven efficiency by cooking multiple dishes simultaneously and using lids on stovetop pots to reduce cooking time.

Pool Management

For pool owners, December requires special attention. Run your pool pump during off-peak hours and consider reducing the running time – most pools remain clean with 6-8 hours of filtration daily. Install a pool cover to reduce evaporation and maintain temperature, potentially saving thousands of litres of water and reducing the energy needed for filtration.

Medium-Term Improvements

Sealing and Insulation

Improving thermal efficiency by blocking off drafts is advice that applies year-round, but it's especially important in summer and winter when the heat differential will be greatest.

Check and, if necessary, improve sealing around doors, windows and any other gaps. Install door seals, weather stripping, and draught stoppers. Check for gaps around windows, doors, and other openings where cool air might escape.

Consider professional draught sealing – it's a relatively low-cost improvement that can reduce energy costs by up to 25%.

Smarter Technology Integration

Install a smart thermostat to optimize cooling cycles and manage temperature zones more effectively. Smart plugs can help eliminate standby power waste from electronics and appliances – particularly relevant during holiday periods when entertainment systems might see more use.

Consider installing ceiling fans in the main living areas if you haven't already. Modern, energy-efficient fans use minimal power while significantly improving comfort and reducing air conditioning needs.

Long-Term Investments for Future Summers

Solar Solutions

With December bringing long, sunny days, it's the perfect time to evaluate solar options. Modern solar systems with battery storage can significantly reduce or eliminate energy bills. While the initial investment is substantial, government incentives and rebates can make the transition more affordable. Solar hot water systems are another excellent option, potentially reducing hot water heating costs by 50-90%.

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Home Improvements

Consider these significant but impactful improvements:

Upgrade to double-glazed windows or apply window films to reduce heat gain
Install or upgrade roof and wall insulation – good insulation can reduce cooling costs by up to 45%
Replace old air conditioning units with energy-efficient models (look for high star ratings)
Install light-colored or heat-reflective roofing materials during planned roof replacements

Holiday Period Specific Considerations

If You're Going Away

Turn the air conditioning off, or if you're concerned about heat damage, set it to 30°C, so things won't get crazy hot in your empty home, but you won't waste money keeping it cool
Switch off and unplug non-essential appliances
Set water heater to vacation mode if available
Activate security lighting on timers rather than leaving lights on continuously.

If you're settling in for a Stay-cation

Use natural ventilation during cooler morning and evening hours
Position Christmas lights and decorations away from thermostat sensors to prevent false readings
Switch to LED holiday lights, which use up to 90% less energy than traditional bulbs
Plan cooking times to avoid the heat of the day
Make use of outdoor cooking areas to reduce indoor heat gain.

New Year Planning

December is an excellent time to plan energy efficiency improvements for the coming year. Start by conducting an energy audit or arranging a professional assessment. Monitor your energy usage patterns during the holiday period to identify areas for improvement. Consider setting up a dedicated savings account for energy-efficient upgrades, taking advantage of post-holiday sales for appliance upgrades.

Conclusion

Energy efficiency in December requires a balanced approach between immediate actions and long-term planning. Whether you're heading away for the holidays or preparing for some downtime at home, these strategies can help maintain comfort while managing energy costs. Remember that many of these investments will continue to provide returns long after the holiday season ends, making your home more comfortable and sustainable for many summers to come.

Remember to check with your local government and energy provider about available rebates and incentives for energy-efficient upgrades – many programs run on calendar years, making December an ideal time to take advantage of remaining benefits while planning for the year ahead.

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