10 ways to reduce your energy bills

Investments in having a qualified electrician install energy-reducing technology will irrefutably pay for itself over time. The money saved can be used for other expenses around the home.

Here are a few ideas to get you started, some of which you can tackle by yourself!

Article Summary

1. Add more insulation
2. Switch to storage heating
3. Upgrade your windows
4. Switch off appliances
5. Look at solar panels
6. Washing clothes
7. Take simple measures
8. Compare energy suppliers
9. Use natural light
10. Keep up with your HVAC maintenance

1. Add more insulation

The cost of insulation to buy and install is very minimal, whilst also being one of the best ways to save on your energy bill. Insulation keeps your home warm in cold months and cool in summer, by making it more difficult for heat to transfer through your walls and roofing. Investing in insulation can pay for itself in a couple of years and the benefits will be felt for many years to come. This is arguably one of the easiest ways to reduce your utilities expenditure.

2. Switch to storage heating

Storage heating systems can help reduce the costs of your heating bills by drawing energy during the night (during off-peak) for use during the day. This means you are using energy whilst you sleep at a lower unit cost, rather than using premium price energy during peak hours in the daytime. 

3. Upgrade your windows

Windows and doors are among the biggest offenders when it comes to leaking heat and adding unnecessary costs to your energy bills. We recommend upgrading your windows to modern models with higher energy efficiency ratings. Like insulation, this one-time upgrade will provide benefits for years and decades to come and is the perfect example of how window finishings can save you money.

4. Switch off appliances

Identify and unplug "vampire electronics" – devices that consume energy even when turned off. Many electronics, such as chargers, computers, and appliances, draw power in standby mode. Unplugging these devices when not in use can make a noticeable difference in your energy consumption. Consider using power boards to easily disconnect multiple devices at once, making it a simple and effective way to cut down on your energy usage and reduce your electricity bill.

5. Look at solar panels

Solar panels are a great way to reduce your power costs in the long run. Although the initial investment is quite high, there are state rebates available at certain times. In this way, if it is installed with a gas booster, your hot water will be heated during the day by the sun. However, if it is wet or cloudy, the gas booster will take over.

6. Washing clothes

Changing the way you wash your clothes can significantly reduce your power bill! Ensure you wash only full loads and use cold water instead of hot. These two options alone can save up to $50 a year on your electricity costs.

Unless the weather is wet and cold, let your clothes dry outside on the line. A dryer is often used out of laziness, because of its close proximity to the washing machine. Even if it is raining outside, try using an indoor rack instead of reaching for the dryer.

7. Take simple measures

This option can make a real difference; just simple things like putting on more clothes rather than using the heater, and using a hot water bottle rather than an electric blanket can do wonders in reducing your power bills.

8. Compare energy suppliers

With the price of electricity being so expensive today, you don’t have to put up with your current supplier. All providers understand how tough it has become on households and are prepared to make deals. Smoothing plans are becoming popular, where based on your average consumption; they allow you to pay a set amount each week. This helps avoid that quarterly bill shock.

9. Use natural light

Rather than turning on the lights in the morning, open your blinds and curtains and use natural light from the sun. Consider if installing a skylight could be a feasible option to embrace more light into your shared living spaces.

10. Keep up with your HVAC maintenance

Schedule regular maintenance for your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. A well-maintained HVAC system operates more efficiently, ensuring that it doesn't have to work harder than necessary to keep your home comfortable. Change air filters regularly, clean vents, and have a professional check for any issues. This proactive approach not only extends the lifespan of your HVAC system but also helps in maintaining its optimal energy efficiency, leading to significant long-term energy savings.

By implementing most of the options above, the savings on your electricity bill will be significant. Many of the options mentioned are not impossible or indeed difficult to follow. 

Need an electrician to help you reduce your energy bills?

Further Reading

• Factors That Contribute to the Cost of an Electrician
• Choosing the Best Lighting Fixtures
• 10 Important Electrical Safety Tips
• Choosing a Gas Fireplace for Your Home