10 WAYS TO SAVE ON YOUR ELECTRICITY BILL

10 WAYS TO SAVE ELECTRICITY AT HOME.

1. Switch to energy-saving LED light globes

Energy-efficient globes could save up to 80% off your lighting costs. This is because LED bulbs use less power and last longer. That means you spend less money and time replacing them.

2. Switch off lights and electrical appliances when not using them

To save the most energy, switch off the power point rather than leave appliances on standby.

Turn off your heater, cooling units and appliances when you go to bed or leave the house.

Switch off your computer and equipment such as printers or Wi-Fi routers overnight or when you're away. Most computers have energy-saving settings that will turn the computer and screen off after a period of inactivity.

3. Save energy in how you wash and dry clothes

Wait until your machine is full before starting a washing cycle.

Try to use cold wash cycles

Clothes dryers use lots of energy. Hang clothes outside to dry or use a fan to help dry them indoors.

4. Save energy in the kitchen Fridge

Your fridge runs 24/7 and is one of your most expensive appliances.

The ideal fridge temperature for your freezer is 4 or 5 degrees Celsius and -15 to -18 degrees. Higher the degrees less the power needed to cool the fridge.

Ensure the fridge door seal is tight and that no gaps or cracks let cold air escape.

If you have a second fridge or freezer, only turn it on when needed.

5. Cooking

Put frozen food in your fridge in the morning to thaw out and reduce cooking time in the evening.

When cooking, use the microwave when you can. Microwaves use much less energy than an electric oven.

6. Dishwasher

Use the economy cycle on your dishwasher, and only run it when it's full.

7. Manage your heating and cooling

Every degree above 20 degrees can add 10% to your heating bill. In winter, heating can account for over 30% of your bill.

In winter, set your thermostat to between 18 and 20 degrees. In summer, set your thermostat to 26 degrees or above.

Shut doors to areas you're not using, and only cool or heat the rooms where you spend the most time.

In cooler months, make sure your curtains or blinds seal your windows properly.

Stop air leaking out by blocking draughts around doors and window

8. Get the best energy deal

One of the easiest ways to reduce energy costs is to compare energy offers.

You just need access to the internet, a recent bill, and some information about your household. Victorian Energy Compare does the rest.

The comparison only takes about 10 minutes, and users can typically save $330 a year on energy costs.

9. Insulate your roof

An insulated ceiling can make a big difference to your energy bills. Effective ceiling insulation can save you up to 20% on cooling and heating costs.

10. Save money with solar energy

Using solar electricity, you generate can reduce the amount of energy you need to buy from your retailer.

Solar hot water systems can also help you avoid gas charges using a gas-fired water heater.