Ways to save on your electricity costs

Lights

Replace incandescent light globes with fluorescent bulbs that can save up to 75% of your lighting costs.
Turn lights off in rooms not being used.
Install timers, automatic switches and daylight or movement sensors for outside lighting.

Turn off your television, sound system and computer when no-one is using them. Remember if the standby light is on, they are using electricity.

Run your air conditioner at the recommended temperature in summer of 24°C – 27°C. Every 1°C cooler will increase your energy costs by around 10 to 15%.
Keep the curtains closed for rooms that are westerly facing to block out the sun in the afternoon.
Use ceiling fans rather than air conditioning or in conjunction with your air conditioner.

Turn of your electric hot water if you are going on holidays.
Lower the temperature of your hot water system
Installing a solar-boosted hot water unit can save you up to 90% of your hot water costs on a sunny day.
Repair any dripping taps. A hot water tap dripping can cost your money not only the heating but the cost of the water.
Install new AAA rated shower rose, and save about 25% of hot water energy.
Take a four minute shower, remember the less hot water you use showering or bathing, the less you need to heat.

Cook some food in a microwave they use 70% less electricity than ovens.
Buy energy efficient appliances.
Ensure oven seals are not broken.
Only run the dishwasher with a full load.
On hot days wash up and let your dishes dry on the rack.
Limit the amount of time you open the fridge on a hot day.
Set your fridge between 3°C and 4°C and your freezer between minus 15°C and 18°C. Every 1°C lower will increase your energy costs by around 5%.
Turn off spare fridges and freezers when not in use.
Make sure your fridge is out of direct sunlight and heating cooking appliances.

Use cold water for everyday washing
Don’t overload the washing machine.
Front-loading washing machines are up to 15% more energy efficient than top loading machines.
Hang clothes on the line where possible rather than using clothes driers.
Put clothes on a n extra spin cycle before going into the drier