Saving Money on Energy Bills

When the topic of saving money on our power bill arises, we seem to think the only solution is to negotiate a better package with the supplier. However, we can actually make efficiency improvements to our home. While this might require a small investment now, the changes can lead to more affordable power bills for the months and years ahead! The first place to start should be with an energy audit, after you have identified hot spots in your home envelope you can proceed with energy upgrades to make your home more energy efficient. Continue reading to learn more.

Invest in Eco Products

These days, as manufacturers invest more in developing eco products, they are quickly becoming better and more affordable. For example, traditional kettles are actually extremely inefficient. With newer models, they can save around 30% in power and this is noticeable for those who regularly drink teas and coffees. In addition to kettles, you’ll also find fridges, TVs, and other appliances with an energy efficiency rating. While some fridges can be as little as $20 to run each year, others can go above $100 so the model you choose will make a huge difference to your power bill.

Loft Insulation (and Doors and Windows!)

Did you know that homeowners waste millions of dollars each year on heating bills when the majority of heat just escapes through the roof anyway? With loft insulation, more heat will stay in your home (or office) and you’ll be able to turn the heating system off rather than having it on continually. While on the theme of keeping heat in the important rooms, we also recommend checking your doors and windows. For doors, a simple draft stopper should prevent heat from escaping under the door. Meanwhile, any gaps in windows should be fixed (you might also consider investing in double-glazing).

Solar Panels

Often, people shy away from this option because they don’t want the initial cost that comes with solar panels. While we do appreciate this, we also believe it shouldn’t be looked at as a ‘cost’ so much as an ‘investment’. Depending on your tariff, location, and some other factors, solar panels can pay for themselves after between seven and twenty years. With this renewable energy source, you can also have the peace of mind that comes with reducing your carbon footprint.

Ask for an Energy Monitor

Thanks to advancements in technology, your supplier probably provides energy monitors to those willing to ask. If you haven’t seen one before, it essentially keeps tabs on the energy being used in the building. As well as seeing how much you’re paying per hour, there may be opportunities to set energy goals. By having this monitor somewhere easily accessible, the effort to reduce energy usage (and therefore your power bills) becomes a conscious one.

Talk with Your Supplier

Although we said you don’t have to negotiate a better package with your energy supplier, there’s nothing to say you can’t try anyway. If you can couple all the tips we’ve provided with a lower rate, the bills you pay will be even cheaper. How do you approach this? Well, you could compare the market and see if other providers are offering a better deal. Alternatively, you could phone your current provider and see if there’s anything they can do. If you don’t ask, you don’t get and you may be surprised by what they can offer when there’s a threat of you leaving altogether.

Summary

Depending on how much you’re willing to invest, there are a number of ways to save money on your power bill. If you want to start small, try an eco kettle, an energy monitor, and a draft stopper. If you have slightly more to invest, why not advance to solar panels? Either way, there’s money to be saved if you’re willing to try!