We all want to make sure our homes are as energy efficient as possible. Not just to reduce our energy bills, but also to reduce our carbon footprint.  To help you identify potential energy inefficiencies, we've made a list of things to look for in your home. Take a look, and find out how to fix them.

Over drafts?

If you feel a noticeable draft around your windows and doors, it's likely that warm or cool air is escaping, forcing your heating or cooling system to work harder. Check for gaps, cracks, or worn-out seals, and consider using weatherstripping or caulk to seal any leaks.

Air leaks

Aside from windows and doors, there could also be hidden air leaks throughout your home. Common culprits include electrical outlets, recessed lighting fixtures, and plumbing penetrations. Seal these gaps with foam insulation or caulking to prevent air leakage. Stay on the safe side by consulting an electrician before doing any work near electrical outlets or wiring.

Lights too bright?

If you're still using traditional incandescent bulbs or outdated halogen lights, it's time for something smarter. Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs, which use less energy and last longer. Don't forget to turn off lights when not in use and consider installing motion sensors.

Outdated appliances

Old appliances, particularly refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines, can consume excessive amounts of energy. If you can, try replacing them with higher energy star-rated models that are specifically designed to be more energy-efficient.

Not sure about your appliances? You can calculate and compare the energy costs of common household appliances by using the Australian Government’s Energy Rating Calculator.

Insulate yourself

Outdated or insufficient insulation can result in heat loss during winter and heat gain during summer. Check your attic, walls, and floors for insulation gaps or insufficient coverage. Adding insulation or upgrading existing insulation can improve your home's energy efficiency.

Heating & cooling

An old heating or cooling system can be a major drain on your energy consumption. Schedule regular maintenance and consider upgrading to energy-efficient options like heat pumps or programmable thermostats to optimise temperature control.

Phantom power drain

Even when not in use, many electronic devices and appliances continue to draw power in standby mode. Combat this "phantom" power drain by using power strips and turning them off when not needed. Consider purchasing energy-efficient models for your electronics.

Go solar

By harnessing the power of the sun, you can generate your own clean energy and reduce your reliance on the grid. Not sure where to start? Get in touch and we’ll match you with one of our preferred and trusted solar installers who can help you find the right solar solution for you.

Waste water

Reducing your hot water use is equally important for energy efficiency. Inspect your faucets and showerheads for leaks or outdated fixtures. Install low-flow aerators and showerheads to minimise your hot water consumption.

You don’t have to do it all at once. Remember, small changes can make a big difference when it comes to reducing your energy footprint and making your home more energy efficient.

Any one of these solutions can make a difference to your bill, and if you really want to stay on top of things, make sure you’ve got Simply Tracker on hand. It’s a great way to keep an eye on your energy usage and find out where you can save.