Wondering how to save energy?

Make ceiling insulation your priority! This is the most effective and best value action.  Build up ceiling insulation until it is 25-30 cm thick. Recommended insulation value for Gloucester is between R 4 (for light coloured roof) and R 5 (for dark roof) for mild temperate climates. 

Switch to a more efficient hot water system especially if it is >15 years old. Your choice of a new system needs to be tailored to your situation – solar system or using your own PV electricity. 

• Check windows for drafts and apply sealing tape.
• Make draft “snakes” (or a rolled-up towel) to cover the join in double sash windows.
• Install “double” glazing (e.g. a lift out panel of glass in a timber frame, Perspex panel or window film).
• Install pelmets above curtains.  Cheap temporary ones can be made from cardboard.
• Add an extra insulating layer to existing curtains. This can be cheaply done with materials like old doonas from op–shops.
• Add curtains or blinds to windows. Cheap options include bubble wrap and window blankets, which can be make decorative with creative colour treatments.

• Conserve the heat in your main living area by closing off rooms not being used.
• In winter concentrate activities like office work or sewing in the warm living areas.
• Dress for the climate - use jumpers, warm socks and slippers before turning on the heating, especially in Autumn and Spring.
• Adjust thermostat to lower setting - every 1C adds 10% to running costs.
• Install door curtains for doors with glass or uninsulated timber panels.

• Check that ceiling fans blades are operating in the right mode for summer and winter.
• Use a fan before using air conditioner in the summer.
• Open-up the house early in the morning to purge out the heat then close up curtains and blinds before the day warms up.
• Make the most of cool nights by opening windows for cross ventilation.
• Close blinds and curtains when air conditioning.

• Wait until you have a full load before starting the washing machine.
• Use cold water for clothes washing to reduce the energy used to heat water.
• Use the economy/delicate cycle on your washing machine for lightly soiled clothes.

• Run the dishwasher when it is full as full loads reduce the amount of energy and water used.
• Use the economy cycle or lowest temperature setting on your dishwasher to get the job done.

• Use your clothes drier sparingly - they are major power users!
• Always put a full load in before drying. 

• Borrow a power meter from the Council to work out how much power your home appliances are using.
• Turn off appliances at the power point when not in use.
• Next time you make a new purchase, factor in the energy rating when making your decision.

• Maximise natural light by opening curtains/using skylights or moving your work to where there is good natural light.
• Replace light globes with energy efficient LED - they now pay for themselves within a year and last longer!
• Install motion sensors where you need to have outside lights for safety.
• Use lamps where possible to reduce the need to use the full room lights.
• Select a light with the lowest wattage for your needs.
• Get into the habit of turning off lights when you leave the room.

• Fridges/freezers are big power users.  Review how you use additional fridges and freezers so that they are only turned on when really necessary.
• Consider if your fridge is old and inefficient.  You may save money by upgrading.  A new fridge can use less than half the electricity compared to one that is more than 10 years old.
• Ensure air can circulate around all sides for your fridge/freezer.
• If possible, move fridges/freezers that are in a hot area.  The hotter they get the more it costs!
• Replace fridge/freezer door seals if ineffective, i.e. can the seal hold a $5 note?  If not, replace it.
• Keep your freezer free of ice build-up as ice causes the motor to use more power.

• Check oven door seals and replace if ineffective.
• Match your cooking method to the task, including quantity of water boiled. Use a microwave for small amounts, mini-oven, slow cookers and pressure cookers.
• Use fan forced function in your oven if available - cooks faster.
• Use an electric toaster instead of the oven griller. 

• Cover firewood with black plastic to keep it dry.
• If wood is hard to light, leave it to season for next winter.  Order well in advance in case wood needs more seasoning.

Search:

www.gov.au for Household Guides; or 

www.energymadeeasy.gov.au for Tips for Saving Energy.