You can save energy all year round with these simple seasonal tips.
They’ll help you stay comfortable and avoid big energy bills during the middle of summer or winter.
Save in summer
- Close doors, windows, blinds and curtains during the day. This keeps heat out during hot days.
- Open windows at night. This lets in the cool evening breeze.
- Use fans before air conditioner. Fans only cost about 2 cents an hour to run and can make the room feel about 3°C cooler. Set them to spin counterclockwise (summer setting).
- Set your air conditioner between 23-26°C. Every degree higher can save about 10% on your air conditioning bill.
- Shut doors to unused rooms. Only cool in the spaces you're using.
- Cook outside or in the evening. Avoid using hot ovens or stovetops that add heat to your home. Why not have a BBQ or picnic in your local park instead.
Save in winter
- Close doors, curtains, blinds and windows at night. Up to 40% of heating can be lost through windows. Keep them closed to hold in heat.
- Open blinds and curtains during sunny days. This lets the sun in to naturally heat rooms.
- Set your air conditioner or heater between 18-21°C. Every degree lower can save about 10% on your heating bill.
- Block cold drafts. Use a door snake or rolled-up towel at the base of doors or windows to seal gaps.
- Heat yourself before you heat the room. Add a layer of clothing, use a hot water bottle or heated blanket.
- Only heat the rooms you’re using. Close doors and vents in unused spaces to save energy.
Need help paying your energy bill?
If you need help paying your energy bills, support is available. Getting the help you need can make a big difference in managing your energy costs.
Check you’re on the best energy plan
It’s important to check you’re on the best energy plan for your home or business. A simple switch could save you over $200 a year. Here’s how to find the best deal:
- Contact your energy retailer or check your bill
Call your energy retailer and ask about a better energy plan or discounts. They have to tell you if you’re not on the cheapest plan and how to switch. They must also include this information on your bill at least every 100 days. This will also be written on your bill under the heading 'Could you save money on another plan?'
- Compare plans using Energy Made Easy
Compare energy plans yourself using the free and independent Australian Government website Energy Made Easy to find the best deal.
Service NSW staff can help you use the Energy Made Easy service. You can call them on 13 77 88 or visit a Service NSW centre.
