5 Ways to Save on Energy Bills
1. Rethink the beer fridge
This great Australian tradition doesn’t come cheap. Beer fridges tend to be older and therefore less energy efficient, and can chew through more than $250 a year. So if you can do without it, kiss the beer fridge goodbye!
>>> Potential saving: up to $300
2. Adjust your thermostat
Research has found men are most comfortable at about 22 degrees Celsius and women at about 24 degrees*. So (depending on who you’re heating) turn down the thermostat to 21 or 23 and see if it’s still comfortable. Only turn it up if necessary. Every degree adds 10% (about $120) to an average annual bill.^
While you’re at it, turn down the temperature on the hot water system to 60 degrees. Every degree there saves about 1% of your water heating cost. You can also cut your usage by 10% (about $120 on average) just by turning off powerpoints.
>>> Potential saving: up to $400
3. Count Your Lucky Stars
Those big yellow stars on whitegoods such as dishwashers, fridges and washing machines can save you money in the long run. For example, the difference between a 1-star fridge/freezer and a 3-star one can be $900 over the life of the machine. So pay close attention when shopping.
>>> Potential saving: up to $200
4. Go nocturnal
A pool costs an average of about $620 a year to run and a spa costs about $240**, so it might be worthwhile seeing if you can connect heaters and filters to a “controlled load” meter that runs overnight to minimise the cost. In some states, you can even get paid to switch some appliances to off-peak tariffs. (See useful links below)
You can also save about $260 a year on your bill if you use your washing machine, dishwashers or heating in off-peak times and avoid the times when everyone else is using power.
>>> Potential saving: Up to $500
5. At least be prepared to move
Check out the exclusive group discounts at fiftyupclub.com.au and see if you can save hundreds by moving providers.
According to research commissioned by Vinnies, an average household switching from the worst plan to the best can save over $800 in some parts of NSW and Victoria, over $500 in SA and over $200 in SE QLD. Even if you DON’T want to move, some retailers won’t show you their best offers until you’ve got one foot out the door.
If you want to be even more comprehensive, you can also look at the on-market offers at energymadeeasy.gov.au. (But bear in mind this government website does not display our Group Discounts.)
>>> Potential saving: Up to $800
PS - Useful Links on Rebates & Concessions
In each state and territory, the government offers varying levels of cash rebates to families, pensioners or low-income households. If you are eligible for one of these rebates, you could save hundreds.
There are also other rebates available for people who are suffering a medical condition and having trouble paying their bills. Here is a list of some of the rebates available to concession cardholders, pensioners, veterans and low-income households in NSW, QLD and VIC.
In NSW:
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$150 Family Energy Rebate
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$235 Low Income Household Rebate
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$250 Combine Capped Rebate - If you are eligible for both rebates above you can receive more support in the form of an annual, combined, capped rebate, currently $250.
More info: http://www.resourcesandenergy.nsw.gov.au/energy-consumers/financial-assistance/rebates
In QLD:
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$320 Electricity Rebate (pensioners and concession holders)
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$68 Reticulated Natural Gas Rebate (pensioners and concession holders)
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Up to $720 The Home Energy Emergency Assistance Scheme (emergency assistance for low-income households)
More info: https://www.dews.qld.gov.au/energy-water-home/electricity/rebates
In VIC:
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17.5% off household electricity bills under the Annual Electricity Concession (for eligible concession card holders)
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17.5% off household electricity bills under the Winter Gas Concession between May and October (for eligible concession card holders)
More info: http://www.dhs.vic.gov.au/for-individuals/financial-support/concessions/energy
In SA:
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Up to $215 per year for eligible South Australians on low or fixed incomes to pay electricity and gas bills
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Up to $200 Cost of Living Concession for eligible households to pay for your biggest needs
Footnotes:
* http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-33760845
^ http://switchon.vic.gov.au/more-ways-to-save/top-10-ways-to-save-energy
