Energy
Tips to save energy and reduce your power bills
- Choose the cold setting when doing laundry.
- Heat yourself, not the room by using a blanket for the couch, a heat pack in bed and wearing appropriate clothing.
- Consider double glazing, or for a more affordable option you can use clear window film, bubble wrap or aluminium foil to keep the heat out.Â
- When buying appliances, aim for those with the highest energy stars within your needs and budget.
- Only run the dishwasher and washing machine when full.
- Avoid using a dryer and hang clothes on a washing line to dry instead.
- Switch light globes to LEDs which are the most efficient option.
For more information on how to make your home more energy efficient through insulation, window furnishings and draught sealing, head to our resources page.Â
Borrow an energy audit kit
Switch Your Thinking has partnered with the Western Australian Government to provide free to loan energy audit kits across the state. This is being delivered as part of the Energy Efficiency Pilot Program which seeks to improve energy literacy among residents and businesses.Â
There are now more than 100 kits available for loan across the state, so borrow one today to investigate the energy efficiency of your home. Each kit has a range of equipment including a thermal camera, a water flow measuring cup and a thermometer.Â
Tips to beat the summer heat
KEEP THE HEAT OUT
Ensure your home is well insulated, draught proof, close curtains and shade the outside of windows with awnings, vines, trees or a shade sail.
USE A FAN
Use a fan instead of air conditioners, if possible. Fans use a fraction of the energy of air conditioners.Â
REDUCE YOUR SPACE
Close the doors to unused spaces/rooms to cool the space with less energy.
COOL YOURSELF FIRST
Cool yourself before your home by having a cold shower, staying hydrated and eating cold foods. A splash of cool water on the neck can make you feel instantly cooler and wearing appropriate clothing can go a long way.
Simple ways to stay warm in winter
FIX DRAUGHTS
If you are heating your house, don’t let the heat escape through cracks, gaps and windows. Draught proof your house using draught tape to seal gaps and make sure windows are covered with curtains or blinds.Â
HAVE SHORTER SHOWERS​
Have a short but hot shower for less than 4 minutes. Have your clothes ready to put on as soon as you get out of the shower.
USE YOUR CURTAINS​
Open curtains during the day to let the sunlight warm your home and close them in the evening to trap the heat in.
HEAT YOURSELF FIRST
It is more efficient to warm yourself, rather than your whole home. Put on a jumper and socks and use a blanket or heat pack. Â
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Other Ways to Switch
Learn about more ways you can switch your thinking and live a more sustainable lifestyle.