Navigate Canberra’s hot spell with 10 energy-saving tips from ActewAGL. Can you spot ways you can reduce power costs at your place?
- Set your fridge temperature to 4°C and freezers to -18°C. Consider using an esky for entertaining instead of a mini fridge.
- If you have a pool, use a pool filter timer so it only runs when needed.
- Switch off TVs, game consoles and don’t leave laptops or phones attached to the charger.
- Use ceiling or pedestal fans – they only cost a couple of cents an hour to run.
- Set air conditioning on hot days to no lower than 24°C. Every degree you lower it can add 10% to your electricity bill.
- Use a clothesline instead of your dryer.
- Only use your dishwasher when it’s full and air dry the dishes to save more electricity.
- Close up your house during the heat of the day and open it up at night to cool it down naturally.
- Replace air conditioner filters. Dirty filters restrict airflow and can cause the system to run longer, increasing energy use.
- Use strategically planted trees, shrubs and vines to shade your home from the heat of the sun.