Energy is a necessary cost for all Victorians but, with winter here, bills are at their peak for many.
Whether you’re ready to make a long-term investment in your home or are looking for easy, low-cost solutions, here are 8 top energy efficiency tips:
Low cost, quick results
1. Block draughts: Door snakes cost just a few dollars from the hardware store and are a great way to plug the gaps under your doors that let pesky draughts in.
2. Replace your lightbulbs: Swap traditional lightbulbs for LED bulbs. They're long lasting, cheap to run and can be used in most existing light fittings. Just make sure you follow the right safety procedure or hire an electrician to install them if you're unsure.
3. Get a cheaper energy deal: Switching your energy plan is one of the best ways to save money on energy without making any behavioural or structural changes around the house. And the good news is, switching plans is easy. For example, switching to Arcline by RACV can be done online in just a few minutes. So grab your latest bill and compare your rates – if you haven't switched in a while, there may be a better deal available.
4. Don't waste energy: Be conscious of your actions around the house. Switch off lights and appliances when you're not using them, open the blinds to let the sun in and dry your clothes on the line or clothes airer rather than in the dryer.
Larger investment, bigger payoff
5. Install solar: Take advantage of the sun and power your house with free, renewable solar power. Solar Victoria estimates households that install solar panels can save over $1000 on energy a year. Over the decades-long life of the system, it can more than pay itself off.
6. Upgrade your hot water system: Hot water heat pumps are the most efficient hot water systems on the market. Heat pumps can use up to 80% less energy than conventional hot water systems, drastically reducing hot water energy consumption.
7. Heat your home more efficiently: Heating uses the most energy in the average Victorian home so investing in an efficient heater, such as a reverse cycle split system, is a great way to reduce your bills. Electric split systems are the most energy efficient, low-cost options available and will also cool your home in summer.
8. Keep the heat in with good insulation: Insulation creates a barrier between the inside and outside of your home, helping to reduce heat loss and your reliance on heating. It’s incredibly cost-effective and can reduce heating and cooling costs by 40-50%.
Identify the best upgrades for your home
For most, the journey to a more efficient home is a gradual one. Unless you're building or renovating, many start with a few big-ticket items, such as improving insulation or installing solar, and then look at replacing their old, inefficient appliances as they reach their end of life.