Handy tips to lower your energy bills and save you from ‘bill shock’ this summer

If you feel like the cost-of-living crisis is out of control, you are not alone. As inflation continues to bite into our back pocket, an increasing number of Australians are looking for creative ways to cut down their energy consumption and survive our harsh seasons.

Research by cost-comparison site Finder looked at how Australians were coping with their energy bills and spoke to 1,013 respondents to get a snap shot of the issue and found that over 50 per cent of those interviewed said they have gone to great lengths to save on their electricity bills.

Alarmingly, 53  per cent of respondents, equivalent to 11.1 million people, said they have gone to extreme lengths to save on their electricity bills, including taking cold showers and using a hairdryer to dry clothes.

Others were taking more extreme measures. Almost one in three (29 per cent) respondents said they avoided using the heater in winter, while 1 in 4 (24 per cent) didn’t turn on the air conditioning, even on a really hot day.

Meanwhile, 17 per cent of respondents said they are monitoring their daily energy usage, while 15 per cent only run their appliances during off-peak times.

Mariam Gabaji, energy expert at Finder, said people are having to get creative to live on the cheap amidst the cost of living crisis.

“Aussies are so stretched financially that they dread the prospect of a high electricity bill and are doing what they can to avoid that,” Gabaji said.

“Many are having to shatter old habits to avoid bill shock.”

For example, one in eight responders visited airconditioned public places (like shopping centres) to keep cool in the heat while six per cent went to the office to avoid using air conditioning/heating.

Others reported using a hairdryer instead of the dryer (five per cent), four per cent steamed their clothes in the shower, three per cent said they borrowed their neighbours’ appliances and three per cent used an oven to dry clothes.

Gabaji said there are easier ways to save money on your bill and recommended these five tips to save you from bill shock over summer.

Shop around for the best deal

New customers typically get better energy deals than loyal customers. Depending on where you live, the difference between the cheapest and most expensive providers can easily come to $500–$700 per year.

Insulate your room as best you can

When your air con is on keep all doors and windows closed to trap in the cool air or you might as well be throwing money out the window.

Consider having your air conditioner/heating unit checked

Older models are less efficient and more costly to run than newer ones. Also make sure it’s cleaned to keep it clear of dirt and bacteria that clog the system.

Where possible, use a fan

They work nearly as well as an air conditioner, but for a fraction of the cost.

Switch devices off at the wall

Standby power use can cost the average household around $100 a year. By switching devices like air conditioners, game consoles and printers off at the wall instead of leaving them on in the background, you could cut down your annual energy bill.