Aussies could save $850 each year by ditching bad electricity habits

Everyone likes to save a bit of money, especially when it comes to unavoidable outgoings such as utility bills, but it has now been revealed that Australians are not being as savvy as they could be when it comes to their electricity usage and unknowingly throwing away hundreds of dollars per year.

New data from Finder.com.au shows that Aussie households are missing out on simple money-saving tricks when it comes to household appliances, with experts advising that people could stand to save as much as $850 per year if they simply make some small adjustments to their everyday habits – equalling total savings of more than $3 billion nationwide.

The biggest cash-munching culprits around the house are the likes of the tumble dryer, however a survey of more than 1,000 people revealed that 35 per cent of Australians opt to dry their clothes in the machine, rather than simply hanging them out on the line. Washing your clothes in warm water is also a pricey task, with Finder’s energy expert Graham Cooke revealing that switching to cold-water washes could slash electricity bills by around $150 every year.

He said: “Hot water is a big culprit when it comes to energy usage. Switching to cold water washes could save up to $150 per year, while ditching the clothes dryer could save you $79.”

The research revealed other wasteful habits, with 18 per cent of those asked admitting to keeping the lights on even when they’re not in the room, and almost half (49 per cent) confessing to keeping appliances switched on when they are not in use.

“Aussies are becoming increasingly savvy about their energy usage,” Cooke added. “This makes it all the more surprising that some are missing a few tricks to keep their bills down.

“With the average power bill now priced at $1,338 per year, Aussies should be cutting back on electricity wherever they can.”

The research also found that 49 per cent of Aussies aren’t reducing their shower time, while one in four keep the windows and doors open despite having the heater on, with Cooke adding: “Increasing energy prices mean that often, any savings you’re able to make on your usage will only cover the price increase. This means bills go sideways, not down.

“If Aussies don’t make the effort to cut back on power, their bills will only increase. Make sure you’re current provider is giving you good bang for your buck – otherwise it might be time to switch.”

If you are guilty of any of these wasteful habits and want to cut down the cost of your annual bills, freeing up some cash to spend on travel or socialising, then Finder also offered some simple tips for lowering your spend, including choosing the most energy efficient appliances, pointing out that people should look for white goods with an energy star rating of three or higher.

Other tips for reducing your utility bills include avoiding energy usage during peak times, if your contract includes variable prices during these times. It is also suggested that you familiarise yourself with your bill and the jargon that your supplier uses, so you are fully aware how much energy you are using and, most importantly, if you are shelling out too much for it.

And, of course, there is always the option of shopping around in order to find a better deal. If you’re unhappy with the amount you’re paying your current provider, have a look at what other companies are offering and you may even be able to make the most of new customer deals or switching offers.