8 tips for DIY savings in your home

A typical Australian family spends nearly $133 per week on their home energy bills (ABS 2013). However, much of that money is wasted through leaky windows or ducts, old appliances, or inefficient heating and cooling systems. We have put together 8 simple steps to create DIY savings in your home.

1. Close internal doors

This will help to reduce the area you are heating or cooling and to help insulate the house.
Bonus: You can hide unwanted clutter from visitors

2. Install dimmer switches and use energy-efficient LED (Light Emitting Diode) bulbs

LED bulbs will outlast halogen and incandescent bulbs, allowing you to save money over the long haul on replacing light bulbs.

3. Replace central air-conditioning filters

Replace central air-conditioning filters two or three times during summer to keep air flowing freely through the ducts.
Bonus: New filters will prevent the collection of dust and mould and will extend the equipment’s life.

4. Plant a deciduous tree

Plant the deciduous tree on the west or east side of your house. Once mature, it will shade your roof, provide wind protection and most importantly cut your cooling costs.
Bonus: The tree drops its leaves each autumn, so you will still get the warming benefit of the winter sun.

5. Install an under sink water filter and stop buying filtered bottled water.

Reducing the environmental impact caused by the disposal of plastic bottles.

6. Install a ceiling fan

It will complement air conditioners and help them run more effectively which is better for the environment.
Bonus: Ceiling fans can become part of a room’s décor, save space and are also safe for children and pets.

7. Toss your old extra fridge if it is no longer used

Your old extra fridge is  likely to be inefficient and adding to your electricity bill.
Bonus: Your garage just got a lot bigger!

8. Install a shower timer in the kids’ bathroom

This will prevent water wastage.
Bonus: Speeding up your kids’ morning routines!

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics 2013: Household Engery Consumption.