Energy efficiency isn’t just about turning off lights and buying energy-saving appliances. There are plenty of little-known tricks that can help cut down your energy bills while making your home or business more sustainable. Some of these methods involve government-backed initiatives, while others are simple changes you can make today. Let’s get into some of the lesser-known but highly effective ways to improve energy efficiency.
If you’re in Victoria, you’re in luck. The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program is one of the easiest ways to make your home or business more energy-efficient. This government initiative provides discounts and rebates on energy-saving products like LED lighting, efficient heating and cooling systems, hot water upgrades, and even energy monitoring tools. The best part? Many of these upgrades can be heavily subsidized or even free depending on eligibility.
Not many people realize how much they can save by taking advantage of this program. If you haven’t checked what you’re eligible for, you could be missing out on significant savings. Whether you’re looking to replace old appliances, upgrade insulation, or switch to solar, the VEU program is worth looking into.
Many appliances continue using electricity even when turned off. This “phantom power” might seem small, but over time, it adds up. Devices like TVs, gaming consoles, microwaves, and even chargers quietly draw power while on standby. The simple fix? Use power strips with switches to turn off multiple devices at once, or invest in smart plugs that cut power when devices aren’t in use.
Most people associate ceiling fans with summer, but did you know they can help in winter too? If you set your fan to rotate clockwise at a low speed, it pushes warm air down, reducing the need for excessive heating. This small adjustment can lower heating costs without compromising comfort.
Thick, insulated curtains can dramatically reduce heat loss in winter and keep your home cooler in summer. Many homes lose heat through windows, even when they’re closed. Using thermal or blackout curtains helps maintain indoor temperatures, meaning you spend less on heating and cooling.
A common habit that wastes both water and energy is rinsing plates before putting them in the dishwasher. Most modern dishwashers are designed to handle dirty plates, so pre-rinsing is unnecessary. It’s better to scrape off food and let the dishwasher do the work. Plus, dishwashers are often more water-efficient than hand washing.
Many assume gas heating is the best option for winter, but reverse-cycle air conditioners can be far more efficient. They use electricity to transfer heat rather than generate it, making them up to three times more efficient than traditional gas heaters. If you’re using an old heating system, upgrading to a reverse cycle unit could significantly cut down your energy bills.
A smart thermostat allows you to automate your heating and cooling based on your schedule. Rather than running all day, it can adjust temperatures when you’re asleep or out, reducing wasted energy. Some models even use motion sensors or weather tracking to optimize usage.
Did you know your cooking habits affect your energy bill? A few simple changes can make a big difference:
Your fridge and freezer work more efficiently when they’re full. The stored food helps maintain cold temperatures, meaning your appliance doesn’t have to work as hard. If you don’t have much in your freezer, try filling space with water bottles to improve efficiency.
While full solar panel installations can be costly, smaller solar solutions can still help. Solar-powered garden lights, water heaters, and battery packs can all reduce reliance on grid electricity. Some households start with a few panels to power essential appliances, then expand their system over time. Also, read Saving Your Solar Energy: 3 Tips for Businesses.
Most laundry detergents are designed to work in cold water, so there’s no need to use hot or warm washes for everyday loads. Switching to cold washes reduces energy use by up to 90%, and your clothes will still come out clean.
If your home feels chilly even with the heating on, draughts could be the culprit. Gaps around doors, windows, and vents let warm air escape and bring in cold air. Seal gaps with weather strips or door snakes to improve insulation and reduce energy waste.
Leaving lights on unnecessarily is a big energy waste, but motion sensor lights can fix that. Ideal for hallways, outdoor areas, and bathrooms, they only turn on when someone is present, cutting down energy consumption.
Many people don’t realize electricity costs vary depending on the time of day. If you’re on a time-of-use plan, using appliances during off-peak hours (like late at night or early morning) can save you money. Check your provider’s rates and adjust your usage accordingly.
Ever wonder which appliances use the most energy? Smart energy monitors connect to your meter or individual devices, giving real-time insights into electricity use. These apps help identify energy hogs, so you know where to cut back.
Energy efficiency isn’t just about big upgrades—often the small, everyday habits make the most difference. Whether taking advantage of the VEU program, using smart technology, or making simple household adjustments, there are plenty of ways to save energy without sacrificing comfort. Start with one or two changes, and you’ll soon see the benefits on your next energy bill.