How to make your home more energy efficient – without spending a cent

While there is no shortage of ways to improve your energy efficiency, many solutions – solar panels, insulation, new appliances – require a great deal of up-front cost and effort.

Happily, there are some much simpler steps you can take to save money on your next power bill – right here, right now and completely free of charge.

Starts at 60 is proud to team up with Alinta Energy to present some of our favourite tricks to make your home more energy efficient.

Stick to cold laundry washes

Not only will this keep your clothes at their original size; it will also save you money. The majority of your washing machine’s energy use comes from heating the water, so a simple flip of the dial today will save you a great deal in the long run. 

Cross ventilate

Trying to freshen up your ventilation? Simply letting the cool air in through the window isn’t enough; the warmer, stale air also needs a way to leave. Try opening further doors and windows on the opposite side of the house. This will create a clear path for the breeze to pass through.

Unplug or turn off unnecessary appliances

While many of us are aware of our televisions’ standby mode wasting power, the smaller, subtler appliances are more easily overlooked. Even a simple phone charger will cost you a small but unnecessary amount of money, regardless of whether or not your phone is actually charging.

Change your computer’s power settings

Both PCs and Macs have power settings that can drastically reduce your computer’s energy use when idle. Ensure your computer and monitor are set to enter hibernation (a.k.a. sleep mode) after 10-15 minutes.

Experiment with your heating

In the chill of winter, it can be easy to overcompensate when setting a heater temperature. Even one degree down can make a difference, and your body may not even notice!

Use your oven smartly

While ovens are far less energy-efficient than microwaves, pressure cookers and gas stovetops, there are still plenty of ways you can make the most of their use. Avoid pre-heating when you can, and consider cooking multiple meals in a single session.

Keep your fridge full

For many homes, the fridge is the biggest power user – but if it isn’t at least two thirds full, you may not be making the most of it. Remember: a full fridge doesn’t have to do as much work, and will generally have a much better regulated temperature.

Stuck with a fridge that’s too large for efficiency? Simply keep a few jugs of water inside. Not only will it save you money; it will keep you more healthy and hydrated to boot!

Change your energy provider

Alinta Energy is taking power bills back to basics, with clear, transparent processes, friendly human interaction and plans that actually make sense. Call Alinta Energy on 13 37 02, or click here to save more on your next bill.

What’s your favourite trick for saving energy at home? Do you do enough to keep your power bill low, or do you feel you should do more?

This post is sponsored by Alinta Energy. It was written as we feel it offers valuable insights into a topic important to the Starts at 60 community. For more information, please visit the Alinta Energy website.