Author: Clive Austin

Lighting

Written by Clive Austin on .

Use energy efficient light globes called compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) or light emitting diodes (LEDs). They’ve come down in price and will save you money long-term.

  • Choose the lowest wattage light bulb you need.
  • Choose lampshades that allow more light through and that keep dust off globes.
  • Dispose of used globes through your local council’s chemical clean out day or at your nearest community recycling centre. To find locations and dates go to www.cleanout.com.au.
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Living spaces

Written by Clive Austin on .

  • Going on holidays? Energy-smart timers will turn lights on and off rather than keeping lights running.
  • Curtains, blinds, shutters and awnings can impact heating and cooling costs.
  • Consider what they are made of, where the sun rises and sets, and how window treatments can be adjusted.
  • Don’t install multiple lights on the same light switch as you will waste power by turning on unnecessary lights.
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Heating and cooling

Written by Clive Austin on .

  • Cold? Add another layer of clothing or blanket rather than turn on the air conditioner or heater.
  • Solar panels can reduce the cost of your air conditioner or water heater.
  • Door and window seals are a cost effective way to keep cool or warm air in and stop draughts.
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Bathroom and laundry

Written by Clive Austin on .

  • Use a bathroom exhaust fan with in-built heating lamp rather than stay longer in the shower to warm up.
  • A four minute shower timer can reduce water and energy usage by 40 per cent.
  • Dry clothes on an outdoor line or indoor clothes rack rather than in the dryer.
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Garage and Outdoors

Written by Clive Austin on .

  • Turn off power tool chargers when not in use.
  • Switch your pool pump to off-peak.
  • Think about shading and planting choices near your house, to reduce the amount of heat impacting key living spaces.
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Appliances

Written by Clive Austin on .

  • Laptops use less energy than desktop computers.
  • Turn off appliances at the power point when not in use. Even standby or snooze mode uses power.
  • Take the free Energy Rating app shopping (www.energyrating.gov.au) and convert your kilowatts to savings.
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