The first step to reducing your power bill is working out what's using the most energy. Once you know what's using the most power, simple changes can make a big difference.
The top three energy-guzzling items in the average Australian home are:
- ducted reverse cycle air conditioners
- hot water systems
- fridges and freezers.
The average NSW household uses its energy on lighting (4%), heating / cooling (27%), hot water (29%), cooking and appliances (40%).
Use the Energy Rating Calculator
You can use online tools to work out how much energy each of your appliances is likely to be using. The Energy Rating Calculator shows expected energy usage, and estimated running cost of many appliances. You can:
- input the brand and model of the appliance
- check the annual energy usage, and the expected running cost
- if your electricity price is different from the calculator amount, multiply the kWh price on your bill by the energy usage to get an expected running cost.
Measure the actual energy use of appliances
Use a plug-in power meter
To check how much electricity appliances are actually using in your home, you can use a plug-in power meter.
Power meter are available for purchase online or in selected stores. Some brands retail for as little as $20. Once you have one:
- plug the appliance into the power meter
- plug the meter into a power socket
- input your electricity cost per kWh, which you'll find on your bill
The power meter will show you:
- real-time energy use and cost
- how much standby power is wasted.
Keep in mind that some appliances, like fridges, cycle on and off based on the thermostat settings. For this reason, fridges need to be monitored for a longer time - at least 24 hours.
How do you compare with other households
Bills from energy providers will tell you how your energy use compares to other households.