Energy Saving Tips

  • Consider upgrading your hot water system to an energy efficient Solar or Heat Pump hot water system. Solar and Heat Pump hot water systems can reduce greenhouse emissions created by heating hot water by as much as 5 tonnes per year – an equivalent amount as produced by a small car.
  • The refrigerator is the single largest power consuming ‘plug-in’ appliance in many households. Consider energy efficiency if replacing or upgrading your fridge.
  • Choose using your clothes line over the clothes dryer whenever possible.
  • Replace incandescent (standard) light globes with energy efficient compact florescent light globes. Energy efficient globes can reduce greenhouse emissions and running costs by as much as 75%. Be mindful to switch off any unused /unnecessary lighting.
  • Switch off appliances when they’re not in use. By switching off appliances that use standby power at the wall you could reduce your home/business greenhouse emissions by up to 700 kilograms per year – it can also reduce your electricity bill.
  • A desktop computer used for an eight hour day can result in the production of over 600 kilograms of greenhouse gases per year. Switch off your computer and any other computer related items such as printers, copiers, scanners, and fax machines when not in use.
  • Walk, cycle, or take public transport whenever practical. By taking one less 10 kilometre car trip each week you could reduce your greenhouse gas emissions by up to 600 kilograms or more a year.
  • Use recycled materials whenever practical. The process used to produce recycled paper can use up to 90% less water, and up to 50% less energy when compared to paper production from newly harvested trees.
  • Switch your home over to green energy. Choose to either install your own renewable energy system – such as a solar power system – or purchase ‘green energy’ from your electricity supplier.
  • Seek out the stars. When purchasing new appliances for your home, seek out energy smart and water smart products that will save you money and reduce your greenhouse gas emissions. The more stars, the more efficient the product!