Let’s be real—energy bills aren’t getting any cheaper, and with the cost of living climbing, many Aussie households are looking for ways to cut back on their power usage without sacrificing comfort. Knowing where your energy is going is the first step. The top three energy guzzlers in the average Aussie home? Ducted reverse cycle air conditioners, hot water systems, and fridges/freezers.
In New South Wales, for example, the average household uses about 4% of its energy on lighting, 27% on heating and cooling, 29% on hot water, and a whopping 40% on cooking and appliances. But the good news is, you don’t need to do a full home renovation to make a difference. These small tweaks can lead to real savings—and a more comfortable, energy-smart home.
1. Keep the heat where you want it with good curtains and blinds
You’d be surprised how much of your home’s heat escapes (or sneaks in) through the windows. If you’re a home owner, installing well-fitted curtains or blinds is an easy win. In winter, keep them open during the day to soak up some sun, then close them at night to trap the warmth in. In summer, reverse it—keep them closed when it’s hot out to stop the heat from sneaking in. Go for lined or thermal-backed curtains that hang below the window frame for extra insulation. It helps reduce the need for heating or cooling, which means less work for your reverse cycle air con—and more money left in your pocket.
2. Stop sneaky draughts from stealing your comfort
If you’ve ever felt a random cold breeze inside on a windy day, chances are your home’s got a few sneaky draughts. Gaps around doors, windows, or vents might not look like much, but they can let out your warm (or cool) air fast. A simple trick? Light a candle near the edges of windows and doors on a breezy day—if the flame flickers, you’ve got a leak. Plugging those gaps with weather strips, sealant, or even a good old-fashioned door snake makes a big difference. It’s a low-cost job you can knock over in an afternoon—and your heater will thank you for it.
3. Swap your space heater for an electric blanket
When the temps drop, the first instinct is often to crank up the heater—but space heaters chew through energy fast. A smarter move? Get an electric blanket. They use a fraction of the energy—usually around 60–100 watts, compared to 1,500 watts or more for a space heater. Pop it on a little while before bed to warm things up, and you’re all set. Just make sure it’s certified to Australian safety standards, and always follow the safety instructions. It’s cosy, efficient, and much cheaper to run.
4. Fix those sneaky water leaks ASAP
Leaks might seem harmless, but they waste a ridiculous amount of water—and energy, especially if it’s hot water. One tap dripping once per second can waste over 12,000 litres of water every year. Leaking toilets are even worse. A tiny, almost invisible trickle could waste 4,000 litres a year, and a constant, obvious leak could be wasting over 96,000 litres. Want to test for a toilet leak? Add a couple of drops of food dye to the cistern and wait 15 minutes without flushing. If you see colour in the bowl, it’s time to call the plumber. Fixing leaks helps your wallet, your energy bill, and the planet.
5. Switch to LEDs and let there be (efficient) light
Still using halogen bulbs? It might be time for an upgrade. LED globes use up to 75% less energy and last way longer—sometimes 10 times as long. They also run cooler and are much safer overall. Even better, if you’re in NSW, VIC, SA or the ACT, you might qualify for government rebates to make the switch easier. While you’re at it, make the most of natural light during the day—open up those curtains and let the sunshine do the work. It’s free and surprisingly effective.
6. Rethink your laundry habits
Doing the laundry might be a never-ending job, but how you do it matters. Try to wait until you’ve got a full load, and use the economy setting if your machine has one. Got a suds-saver or water-saving function? Switch it on. Where possible, use cold water—it cleans just as well for most loads and saves a heap on heating costs. And if you can, skip the dryer altogether and hang your clothes outside. It’s better for your clothes and your power bill.
7. Take advantage of your state’s energy-saving programs
Across Australia, each state and territory offers different rebates, schemes and energy-saving tips. It’s worth taking a few minutes to see what’s available where you live—you could be eligible for discounts on appliances, solar panels, or even home assessments. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- VIC: Solar/battery offers, appliance upgrades, and thermal performance improvements. You can also get a full home energy assessment for around $250–$500.
- NSW: Rebates on solar, batteries, and energy-efficient appliances.
- SA: Deals on efficient appliances and upgrades, plus great advice.
- QLD & NT: Handy energy-saving tips to suit local climates.
- WA: Offers home energy assessments and a solar energy buyback scheme.
- ACT: Personalised energy advice, appliance upgrades, solar and battery rebates, and free energy checks for renters.
- TAS: A DIY home energy assessment kit and helpful tips to improve efficiency.
Energy efficiency doesn’t mean big renovations or expensive gear. It’s about making smart, simple choices that cut waste and save money. Whether it’s sealing up draughts, switching off unused appliances, or upgrading to LEDs, these small steps really do add up over time. Add in some support from your state’s energy programs, and you’re well on your way to a home that’s cheaper to run and more comfortable to live in. Start with one or two changes this week—you’ll be surprised at the impact they can make.
