You are most likely only too aware of the increases in electricity usage costs no matter which provider you are with. But there are definitely some steps you can take to actively reduce your electricity consumption and lower your future electricity bills.
We have outlined some of the most common ‘hidden’ reasons power bills are so high and what you can do to address them.
- You have vampire appliances.
Your appliances are literally actively sucking electricity even when they are not switched on, so while you no one is at home and your appliances are switched off your electricity meter is ticking over with energy consumption. Most modern appliances never really power down, they simply transition to a standby mode, so they still consume electricity whilst waiting for a demand from you or for a scheduled task to run. The best bet is to get into the habit of switching off such appliances at the wall, to stop the flow of electricity completely. This is particularly recommended for TVs, computers, laptops, even microwaves.
- You regularly use energy usage appliances
A sure-fire way to send your electricity bill skyrocketing is to overuse energy hogging appliances such as clothes dryers, dishwashers and washing machines. Try and get into a routine where you only put the dishwasher on when it is really full, maybe even cold wash utensils where possible to stretch you out between cycles. For clothes, consider setting one day a week as a laundry day and wash full loads so your washing machine is at its fullest capacity. Try to avoid your clothes dryer wherever possible leaving clothes to hang dry instead. You will definitely notice a fall in your bill if you consistently lower your usage of these appliances over time!
- You misuse lighting
Switch lights off if you are leaving a room. Avoid leaving lights on at night. Use a lamp instead of full room lighting where possible. Be conscious of lightsbeing on and remember your electricity meter is ticking over costing you money for each minute you have your lights on! And of course some lights are way more energy efficient than others and if you haven’t switched over to LEDs you really should – read more about the benefits of LEDs.
- You use old appliances
Old appliances use more electricity than more modern energy-saving appliances. Vintage retro appliances such as refrigerators or ovens, while look cool, can drive your energy bill through the roof, with modern day rates. The same goes for appliances over ten years old. It is definitely sometimes worth the investment to get a new power-saving appliance than relying on older appliances that cost a bomb to run.
- You have a load of device chargers plugged in
Chargers for mobile phones, tablets, laptops, electric shavers etc.. all continue sapping electricity when plugged in and not switched off at the wall. Get into the habit of removing them from power points when not in use to guarantee they stop sucking through your energy supply when not in use.
Do yourself and your wallet a favour and try some of these power saving tips to see how your next energy bill compares!
If you are based in Hornsby, the North Shore, Castle Hill or surrounds, and need a reliable local electrician, give us a call today on 9477 2550.