Summertime and the living is easy! But it can be a sweltering time of year in many parts of the country. We are being told to prepare for a particularly warm summer, based on the recent summer in the northern hemisphere being the hottest on record. This could mean bracing for the steep energy bills associated with keeping your cool.
Even allowing for the government’s $300 annual rebate (that is being applied in quarterly instalments to electricity bills through the 2024-25 financial year), it’s common for energy usage and power bills to spike in summer.
Cooling can make up 40 per cent of your summer power bill and it’s often the number one factor that makes summer bills the biggest of the year in the hotter states.i
The good news is that with a little planning and some clever strategies, you can keep your home cool and your energy bills manageable. Let’s dive into some tips to help you save this summer.
Compare energy providers
One of the most effective ways to reduce your energy costs is to shop around. The Australian energy market is competitive, and there are plenty of options available. Take some time to compare energy providers using websites like Energy Made Easy or Canstar Blue. Look for plans that offer lower rates, special discounts, or incentives that align with your usage. Switching providers can lead to significant savings, so don’t hesitate to explore your options!
Let the breeze in
Before reaching for the air conditioning remote, consider harnessing the power of natural ventilation. Opening windows during the cooler parts of the day—like early mornings and late evenings—can help cool your home. Try to open them strategically to create a refreshing cross-breeze if possible.
Block out the rays
Your curtains can be a powerful ally in keeping your home cool. Light-coloured, thermal-backed curtains or blinds can reflect heat and block the sun’s rays. Close them during the hottest parts of the day— between 11 AM and 3 PM—to help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Additionally, if you have outdoor awnings or shade sails, use them to further reduce direct sunlight on your windows.
Optimise your air conditioning
If air conditioning is necessary for your comfort, there are ways to use it more efficiently:
- Don’t run it 24/7: Try to save air conditioning for the hottest parts of the day. It will be most effective and cheapest to run if your home is well insulated and you’ve closed it up for the day.
- Set the thermostat wisely: Aim for a thermostat setting around 24-26°C. Each degree lower can increase your energy usage by about 10%, so a slight adjustment can make a big difference.
- Regular maintenance: Keep your AC unit in good shape by regularly cleaning or replacing filters. A clean filter improves airflow and efficiency, allowing your system to work less hard to keep your home cool.
- Use programmable thermostats: If you have a programmable thermostat, set it to turn off during times when you’re not home. This simple change can lead to substantial savings over the summer months.
Fan-tastic cooling
Consider opting for fans instead of turning on the air conditioner. While fans need to be positioned carefully so they are blowing on you for you to feel the cooling effect, they are much cheaper to run than an air-conditioner.
Ceiling fans tend to be the most efficient but pedestal and bladeless fans are also quite cheap to buy and cost-effective to run. The portable fan costs around 2 to 3 cents per hour to operate.
Keep the cool air in and the warm air out!
Proper insulation can make a significant difference in keeping your home comfortable. Here’s how to ensure your home is sealed adequately by Inspecting windows and doors for any drafts. If you feel air leaking in, use weather stripping or caulk to seal those gaps.
Good insulation in your walls and ceiling can also help maintain a stable indoor temperature, reducing the need for excessive cooling.
Summer is a time for relaxation, and fun – not crippling energy bills. With a few tweaks you can keep your home cool and your energy costs down, even as the temperature rises.
For help and advice, contact us here.
