Sick of that skyrocketing Electricity Bill?

I know we have all heard the news: turn stuff off and it will save you money. But there is more we can do than just that. This month I have put together a few ideas to get you motivated and looking around your home
Check it out and make a wish list if you need to. Most of all remember small changes can make BIG differences. Make sure you keep me posted!!

Turn it OFF and Save:
1. Ok I am going to say it: turn everything OFF! Things like game consoles, televisions, computers, printers the list goes on... All of these sap energy out increasing your power bills.

Cracks and Gaps:
2. Check your home for gaps and cracks that allow cool or warm air to escape. You can SAVE up to 45 per cent on heating and cooling energy with roof and ceiling insulation. (www.yourhome.gov.au/technical) Check for indoor leaks along the edge of flooring, walls and ceiling. Here's a few more spots to check:                          

• Window frames
• Baseboards
• Weather stripping around doors
• Fireplace dampers
• Attic hatches
• Wall or window mounted air conditioners

Lighting:
3. Check your light bulbs. The government website www.yourhome.gov.au/technical states " The cost of running a light is directly related to the wattage of the globe plus any associated ballast or transformer. The higher the wattage, the higher the running cost". Where possible switch to light emitting diodes (LED) lights, or compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) these lights are the most energy efficient, last longer and use much less energy. A little more expensive yes, but you get much more 'bang for your buck', as they say!

Appliances:
4. The electricity and gas that we use to run our appliances increases our greenhouse gas emissions. A way to reduce these emissions that are harmful to our environment is by choosing energy efficient appliances.                                            
Most appliances in Australia have an 'Energy Rating Label' to help compare how much electricity the product uses against other appliances. A 'Gas Rating Label' can be found on gas heaters, ducted heating and gas water heaters. In short the higher the star rating the more money on energy bills you can save.
Now once again you may find that the highest rating products are more expensive, but choosing a cheaper product with fewer stars could end up costing you more in the long run.

Hot Water Systems:
5. The average Australian household can use around a quarter of its total energy on heating water, so it's important to use an efficient system that suits your needs. Using an efficient system is a great way to reduce your energy costs and your environmental impact.

Have a great month
Jo