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Simple Ways to Save: Six ways to reduce your electricity bill
The biggest household bill shock this year looks set to be electricity, with some Aussie households reporting significant increases in energy prices.
This will be even more challenging for New South Wales, south-east Queensland and South Australian residents from July 1 after the Australian Energy Regulator revealed it is planning to increase the amount electricity retailers can charge by 2.5 to 8.9 per cent.
Added to this increased interest rates, grocery prices and cost-of-living in general, everyone is feeling the pinch. But there are six things you can start doing now to help reduce your power bill.
Watch the video above.
READ MORE: How I slashed my electricity bill by $20 a month with one daily tweak
1. Block out curtains
Invest in block out curtains or the heaviest curtains you can afford, to help block out the heat. Don’t underestimate how effective these can be. If you can’t afford to invest in anything extra, use what you have, keeping existing curtains and blinds closed on hotter days and using door snakes to close the gaps.
This will also help ensure any air conditioner use will be as effective as possible and can stay on for shorter periods of time or on lower settings.
READ MORE: Surprising store selling cleaning products at cheaper prices
2. Use your service provider app
Most electricity service providers come with an app you can use to track your usage. You will be able to see when you are using the most electricity and think of ideas to reduce that ongoing.
You can also examine their cost structure and better take advantage of any off-peak periods during which costs are lower.
3. Talk to family and household members
Sit down with those you live with and discuss ways to reduce electricity usage. By discussing it together, you will ensure you are on the same page.
Also come up with a system to gently remind each other of the choices you have made together so nobody feels too hassled.
Retro items that could be worth a small fortune
4. Unplug everything
Unplug any appliance that isn’t in regular use and only plug them in as needed. Discuss taking turns checking these remain unplugged.
A great idea is to make it a part of your routine at the end of each day.
5. Cold water only
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Use cold water only when using your washing machine and dishwasher.
Many newer machines come with this function and warm the water in the machine. You can check this during installation.
If you have an older machine, connect it to the cold water tap only.
6. Consider switching providers
Consider switching service providers to take advantage of introductory offers. This can often save you in the short term, and it isn’t difficult to do.
There are comparison websites you can use to do the hard work for you, or you can simply take a look around. Oftentimes it can pay to bundle services together, like electricity and insurance, or insurance and your telco.
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The information provided on this website is general in nature only and does not constitute personal financial advice. The information has been prepared without taking into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on any information on this website you should consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs.
