A long overdue reset to the tariff reform agenda promises better outcomes for energy consumers. Plus a new report finds that retailers really do charge residential customers more than business.
It's here - we're in the middle of winter, and most of us are feeling the chill, as well as the pain of high energy bills. Here's our roundup of what you can do to shrink your bills while keeping your home's comfort levels high.
Here we are, right in the middle of winter, paying the price for not optimising our homes in preparation for these colder months. But it's not too late - now is an opportune time to maximise energy efficiency in your home. This not only keeps your home comfortable but also helps save on energy bills. Here are some seasonal tips and practical advice, covering short-term and long-term strategies to enhance energy efficiency in Australian homes during July.
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Use Programmable Thermostats: Set your thermostat to lower temperatures when you are not home or at night. Programming it to a comfortable level at home ensures efficiency without compromising comfort.
Zone Heating: Only heat the rooms you are using. Close doors to unused rooms and use space heaters to avoid heating the entire house.
Seal Drafts: Check for drafts around windows, doors, and other openings. Use weather stripping, caulk, or draft stoppers to seal any gaps. This prevents warm air from escaping and cold air from entering.
Curtains and Blinds: Close curtains and blinds in the evening to add an extra layer of insulation and retain heat. During the day, open them to let sunlight naturally warm your home.
Smart Use of Heaters: Use electric blankets or heated throws as a personal heating solution. They are more efficient than heating an entire room.
Optimize Hot Water Usage: Set your water heater to a lower temperature (around 60°C). Take shorter showers and use cold water for laundry when possible.
Use Energy-Efficient Lighting: Replace incandescent bulbs with LED or CFL bulbs. These use less energy and last longer, reducing both energy consumption and replacement costs.
Use Natural Light: Take advantage of natural light during the day. Position mirrors to reflect light into darker areas and reduce the need for artificial lighting.
Long-Term Strategies for Sustainable Energy Efficiency
1. Upgrade Insulation
Roof and Wall Insulation: Investing in high-quality insulation for your roof and walls can significantly reduce heat loss. This keeps your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer, leading to substantial energy savings year-round.
Double Glazing Windows: Double glazing windows provide better insulation compared to single glazing. They help in reducing heat loss in winter and keep your home cooler in summer.
Heat Pumps: Consider installing a heat pump, which is one of the most energy-efficient heating and cooling systems available. They use less electricity compared to traditional electric heaters and provide consistent warmth.
Radiant Floor Heating: This is an effective and efficient way to heat your home, as it evenly distributes heat from the floor up. Though the initial installation cost can be high, it pays off in the long run with reduced energy bills.
3. Renewable Energy Solutions
Solar Panels: Installing solar panels can significantly cut your electricity bills. They generate electricity from sunlight, which can power your home during the day. Any excess energy can be stored in batteries or fed back into the grid for credits.
Solar Hot Water Systems: These systems use solar energy to heat water, which can be a significant portion of your energy use. They are particularly effective in Australia, given the ample sunlight available.
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Home Automation Systems: Invest in smart home technology that allows you to control heating, lighting, and appliances remotely. This ensures you use energy only when needed and can lead to significant savings.
Service Heating Systems: Ensure your heating systems are serviced regularly to maintain their efficiency. Clean filters and check for any issues that might reduce their performance.
Check Insulation: Over time, insulation can degrade or be damaged. Regularly check your insulation and replace or repair as needed to maintain its effectiveness.
2. Behavioral Changes
Dress Warmly: Wear appropriate clothing indoors during winter to reduce the need for excessive heating. Layering clothes and using warm socks and slippers can keep you comfortable without turning up the heat.
Use Rugs: Placing rugs on cold floors can add an extra layer of insulation and make your home feel warmer.
3. Energy Audits
Professional Energy Audits: Consider hiring a professional to conduct an energy audit of your home. They can identify areas where energy efficiency can be improved and recommend specific actions.
DIY Energy Checks: Perform a DIY energy check by looking for drafts, checking insulation, and identifying energy-hungry appliances. Simple fixes can lead to immediate improvements.
Chimney and Fireplace: If you have a fireplace, ensure the chimney is clean and the damper is closed when not in use to prevent warm air from escaping.
Covering Windows: Use heavy curtains or thermal blinds to cover windows at night. This helps retain heat and adds a layer of insulation.
Maximizing energy efficiency in your Australian home in July requires a combination of immediate actions and long-term investments. By optimizing your heating systems, improving insulation, using energy-efficient appliances, and adopting renewable energy solutions, you can significantly reduce your energy bills while keeping your home comfortable. Implementing these seasonal tips and practical advice not only enhances energy efficiency but also contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle.
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Here are some seasonal tips and practical advice covering short-term wins and longer-term investments to optimise energy efficiency in your home this November.
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Richard Foxworthy
