Energy Saving Checklist:
Cutting down your energy usage and bill!

Even though Aussie’s are becoming more conscious of our environmental impacts, most of us are unaware of the small things that we can do to reduce energy consumption and costs within our own homes. Let’s be honest, we’d all love to save more on our bills!

Firstly, it’s important to get to know your energy bill – this way you can compare each bill to pinpoint increased usage and understand what rates you pay and what tariff type you are on (are you on a Time of Use plan where you have different rates for peak, shoulder and off-peak?) If you are unsure of how to get through the ins and outs of your energy bill, take a look at our blog ‘’How to Read Your Electricity Bill’’

Energy Saving Checklist:

1. Lighting

Switch to LED lightbulbs. These are far more energy efficient and have a longer lifetime than incandescent bulbs. You can reduce your lightings energy usage by up to 50% in your home by switching!
Take advantage of all the natural lighting Australia has to offer. Open those blinds and shutters and let in as much sun light as you can, so you don’t have to switch on your lights
Turn off all your lights when you leave the house or if you’re leaving a room. (We’re all guilty of leaving them on, I know, but it does make a difference!) Remind your children about this!

2. Heating and cooling

Use fans when you can, they are much more cost effective than air conditioning
Ensure your home is insulated so that no cold or warm air can escape during the summer and winter months. Try out draught stoppers and make sure your windows and doors are tightly sealed
Only heat and cool rooms that are in use, otherwise it’s a waste of your energy usage and money
Switch off your heater at night and try using a heavier doona or blanket to keep you warm during winter months

3. Appliances

Switch off all appliances that are not in use or that are left on standby. All appliances still use power, unless they are switched off from the wall. Examples include your electric kettle, toaster, coffee machine and dryer
Purchase appliances with a high Energy Star Rating. These appliances tend to have a lower running cost in the long run and end up saving you money. An energy efficient appliance can save you up to three times more energy than it outputs per year!

4. Washing

Small loads of washing may use less water, but still use the same amount of energy as a full load of washing. Try and hold out until the end of the week to do a full load
Wash your clothes on a full load at a cooler temperature to save energy. Only use hot water washes when applicable or needed for heavier items
Switch off the washing machine at its power source when not in use
If you can, dry your clothes outside in the sunlight or on a rack in a sunny room (if you don’t have access to a yard). Dryers are big energy guzzlers, so the less you use them, the better!

5. Water

It’s no secret that longer showers use more water and energy, so we recommend setting a 3-song limit to your shower!
If you use a dishwasher, make sure to wash a full load. if you can avoid a heavy pre-rinse of your dishes then you'll also save water

6. Switching providers

In order to save on your bills, it may be a good idea to switch energy providers to find a plan that best suits you. Here at Nectr, we have different plans – 100% Carbon Neutral plans or 100% GreenPower plans - as a standard, to suit different needs. Get a personalised quote today.