As the summer heat intensifies across the Bellarine Peninsula and Surf Coast, your home’s electrical system may feel the strain. Luckily, a few simple adjustments can help you reduce your electricity bills while keeping your home comfortable.
Smart Tips for Cooling Your Home
Heating and cooling account for around 40% of your home’s energy use, making them some of the biggest contributors to your electricity bills. Here are some practical ways to stay cool this summer without breaking the bank:
- Only cool the rooms you’re using and close off unused spaces.
- Seal gaps and cracks to stop cool air from escaping.
- Close curtains or install window coverings to block out the sun during the day.
- Take advantage of cool breezes by opening doors and windows when possible.
- Use fans before switching on the air conditioner. Fans cost just a few cents per hour to run and can lower the temperature by 2–3°C.
By combining fans with your air conditioner, you can improve cooling efficiency while saving money.
Efficient Air Conditioning Use
If you’re running an air conditioner, avoid the temptation to blast it at full speed. Instead, set it to a moderate fan speed and let it work gradually to cool the space. This method uses less energy and reduces costs while keeping your home comfortable.
Need an air conditioner installed in Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula, or the Surf Coast? Trust a qualified and licensed electrician in Ocean Grove like Smart Green Electrical to ensure your AC unit is installed safely and efficiently.
Lighting Matters
Switching to energy-efficient LED lighting is a simple yet effective way to lower your power bills. LED bulbs:
- Last longer than traditional bulbs, reducing replacement costs.
- Use up to 75% less energy.
- Provide brighter, more consistent light.
For added convenience, consider installing a smart lighting control system with the help of an experienced electrician in Geelong. These systems can automatically turn off lights when rooms are unoccupied or integrate with your home security system, offering safety and savings.
More Energy-Saving Hacks
- Hang Your Washing: Skip the dryer and hang your clothes on the line. This saves energy and reduces wear on your appliances.
- Cook Outdoors: Ovens and stovetops heat up your home, increasing the workload on your air conditioner. Use your barbecue instead to keep things cool.
- Combat Vampire Power: Standby power—electricity used by appliances not in active use—can add nearly $100 to your annual bill. Turn off devices like TVs, laptops, and gaming consoles at the wall to save energy and protect your circuits from overload.
Book an Energy Efficiency Assessment
Looking to make your home or business more energy-efficient? The experts at Smart Green Electrical offer comprehensive energy assessments to help you save money and reduce your carbon footprint.
Servicing Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula, and the Surf Coast, Smart Green Electrical is your trusted local team for all your residential and emergency electrical needs. Call 0456 777 067 or use the contact form on our website to schedule an appointment today!
