Energy saving tips for the summer

Aussie summers are all about sunny days, warm nights, and beach outings, but the rising temperatures often mean higher energy usage - and costs.

To help you enjoy summer without the extra expense, we’ve gathered our best tips for reducing your energy and water bills. With a few simple adjustments, you can keep cool and cut costs this season:

Our top summer energy saving tips:

Switch to a new plan

The simplest and easiest way to save money this summer is to speak to the experts at Compare Energy.

Our team understands that saving money is a must over the hotter months of the year, and we can talk you through the best plans to switch to so you can make cost savings this summer. Call us on 1300 790 106 and we’ll get you connected.

Get ready to insulate

Insulating your home is a valuable step toward comfort and energy efficiency, as up to 50% of cooling energy can be lost through air leaks in uninsulated spaces. Shading windows, especially those facing north and west, and planting trees or bushes around your home help block direct sunlight.

You can also keep windows and curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day, and when temperatures cool in the evening, open windows or doors to create a cross-breeze. Sealing gaps around windows and doors with weather strips can also make a significant difference.

Embrace the power of ceiling fans

Before you turn on the air conditioner, think about using a fan instead. Fans are much more energy-efficient and can effectively cool you down on a hot day. They circulate air, creating a breeze that makes you feel cooler without using as much electricity.

To maximise their effectiveness, keep the fan blades clean and dust-free. This allows them to move air more efficiently and use less power. Plus, remember to turn off the fan when you leave the room to save even more energy.

By choosing fans over air conditioning, you not only reduce your energy bills but also contribute to a more sustainable environment. It’s a small change that can make a big difference!

Add a timer to your air conditioning unit

On hot nights, it's tempting to leave the air conditioner running all night to stay comfortable, but this can quickly add up on your energy bill.

Instead, try setting a timer on your A/C to switch off later in the night, allowing you to fall asleep comfortably without the high costs. When buying a new air conditioner, look for the Zoned Energy Rating Label (ZERL) to help identify the most energy-efficient options for your climate zone. This label rates efficiency across three Australian climate zones, helping you choose the best model for your area.

Set the temperature for efficiency

For efficient air conditioner use, keep the temperature set between 25–27°C; each degree higher can save 5-10% in energy costs. Use a programmable thermostat to tailor cooling to your schedule and only run the A/C when you need it.

If your unit has an external compressor, providing some shade can prevent it from overheating in direct sunlight, which can make it work harder and use more energy.

Get your HVAC unit inspected

Keeping your HVAC unit well-maintained is key to its efficiency and can significantly reduce energy costs. A licensed technician can perform annual inspections to ensure your system is running optimally, catching any issues early.

Dust buildup is a common problem that restricts airflow and forces the unit to work harder to cool your home, increasing energy use. Regular cleaning and filter replacement can prevent this, keeping your system efficient and your bills lower.

Switch to LED lighting

If you haven't made the change to energy-efficient LED lights yet, now is the perfect moment. LED bulbs not only last significantly longer than standard bulbs, but they also help reduce your electricity bill.

Choose LEDs that produce less heat, consume 75% less energy, and can last up to 10 times longer than halogen bulbs.

Optimise your pool pump for efficiency

Modern pool pumps are designed to be much more energy-efficient than older models. One great feature is the timer, which allows you to schedule the pump to run during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower. This simple adjustment can lead to significant savings on your energy bill.

Many new pumps also come with energy-saving modes that consume far less electricity compared to traditional pumps. While the initial cost may be higher, these pumps can save you hundreds of dollars over time through reduced energy usage.

Switch off

It only takes a moment to turn off switches, yet it’s easy to overlook this in our busy lives. Take a moment to consider all the devices in your home that are plugged in but not in use.

Even when they’re on standby, things like TVs, washing machines, dryers, kettles, computers, gaming consoles, and phone chargers still use electricity and therefore, are draining your pockets this summer.

By switching them off at the wall, you can prevent this unnecessary energy drain and help lower your next electricity bill. It’s a simple habit that can make a real difference.

Keep your refrigerator in good shape

Your refrigerator runs all day, every day, making it a major contributor to your energy bill. To ensure it operates efficiently, give it some care this summer.

• Start by checking the seals; if they're worn out, replace them.
• Dust can accumulate on the top and back, so a quick vacuum can help improve airflow.
• If your freezer has a lot of ice buildup, defrost it to enhance efficiency.
• For the best energy use, set your fridge temperature between 3-5°C and your freezer at around -18°C.
• If you have an old beer fridge that you rarely use, consider turning it off - this simple step could save you hundreds in electricity costs each year.

Taking these small actions can keep your fridge running well while saving you money over the months where ice blocks are a must.

Use nature’s tumble dryer

On sunny days, take advantage of nature’s dryer by hanging your clothes on a line instead of using the clothes dryer.

This simple switch can significantly cut down your energy use because the warm air and breeze will thoroughly dry your clothes in no time at all.

Plus, the sunlight helps to remove stains and kill bacteria, giving your laundry a fresh, clean feel.

Cut costs by going solar

This summer, one of the best ways to lower your energy bills is by tapping into solar power. If you already have solar panels installed on your roof, you can significantly reduce your reliance on traditional electricity suppliers.

Not only does this help you save money, but it's also a smart investment for your future, potentially saving you thousands in the long run.

If you're considering switching to a solar energy plan, reach out to Compare Energy for guidance on finding the best options for your home.

Call us today

Compare Energy is happy to walk you through your plan options if you want to upgrade to a new plan or switch providers this summer. Don’t sweat the small stuff: call us on 1300 790 106 now and we’ll walk you through it.