How much could you save each year?

  • Turn off unused appliances at the wall — save $200*
  • Wash full loads in your washing machine and dishwasher — save $22*
  • Close your curtains at dusk to keep the heat in — save $80-$90*
  • Clean out your heat pump filter regularly — save $50*
  • Switch to LED lightbulbs — save $90*

Read on for more ways to beat energy waste, and save. 

Here's your guide to beating energy waste, one easy habit at a time. (Plus some slightly bigger investments that will pay off in the long run.) 

Daily habits

  • Flick it off

    Turn off appliances that are not in use, such as a second refrigerator, heated towel rails, or other standby devices. These items consume energy even when not actively in use.

    Save: $200 a year*

  • Only when full

    Only run your dishwasher and washing machine when they're fully loaded. This reduces the number of cycles you need to run, conserving water and energy.

    Save: $22 a year*

  • Wash on cold

    Heating water accounts for a large portion of energy used during a wash, and cold water is effective for most fabrics and detergents.

    Save: $20-$50 a year*

Keep warm for less

  • Close at dusk

    Close your curtains or blinds at sunset to retain heat and prevent warmth from escaping through windows.

    Save: $80-$90 a year*

  • Only when in

    Heat or cool only the rooms you’re actively using. Close doors to unused areas to concentrate the energy where it’s needed most.

    Save: $300-$350 a year*

  • Set at 21°C

    Set your heating temperature to a maximum of 21°C. Each degree higher increases energy use, so sticking to this temperature strikes a balance between comfort and efficiency.

    Save: $39-$43 a year*

Set and forget

  • Seal all gaps

    Reduce draughts by sealing gaps around windows and doors using draught excluders or weatherproofing strips. This prevents heat from escaping and cold air from entering, leading to less work for your heating system.

    Save: $100 a year*

  • Adjust the heat

    Set the maximum temperature of your hot water system to 60°C. Higher temperatures waste energy and increase the risk of scalding.

    Save: $29 a year*

  • Clean your filter

    Clean the filter in your heat pump once a month to ensure it runs efficiently. Dust and debris buildup forces the system to work harder, increasing energy use.

    Save: $50 a year*

Bigger investments that will pay off

  • Check your insulation

    Good home insulation reduces the need for heating and cooling by keeping your home’s temperature stable, making it one of the most effective ways to save energy and money.

    Save: $310-$340 a year*

  • Switch to LEDs

    Replace traditional bulbs with LED lighting throughout your home. LEDs use significantly less energy, last much longer, and provide the same brightness as other lighting options.

    Save: $90 a year*

  • Buy energy smart

    Check the energy rating label before you buy a new appliance. An appliance with more stars on the label is more energy efficient – and will cost you less to run.

    Save: $140 a year*

Use off-peak

Save: $150 a year*

Take advantage of off-peak electricity rates by running appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers late in the evening, overnight or on weekends. Electricity is often cheaper during these times due to lower demand. 

To access off-peak pricing, you need to be on the right kind of power plan — often called off-peak, time-of-use, flexi or ecosaver.