Saving energy doesn’t have to mean making big sacrifices or costly investments. In fact, some of the most effective changes start with the simplest actions we can take every day. 

These tiny tweaks, when done consistently, can add up to some meaningful savings for your energy bill. 

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

  • Turn off unused appliances at the wall

    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*

  • Wait until appliances are full before using

    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*

  • Select a cold wash for your clothes

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

    Save: $21 a year*

Keep warm for less

  • Close your curtains 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 heat or cool rooms you are using

    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 your temperature to 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 draughts around windows and doors

    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*

  • Set your hot water cylinder to 60°C

    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 out your heat pump filter regularly

    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 walls, roof and floors are well insulated.

    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 your lightbulbs 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*

  • When upgrading appliances, look for more stars on the label

    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 appliances during off-peak hours

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.