Summers in Australia are hot, particularly in the most inland areas where the average temperature can often exceed 35°C. To make matters worse, climate change is having an alarming impact on Australian climates. Global average temperatures have increased by 1°C which has contributed to widespread drought and devastating bushfires.

If you want to stay cool and comfortable in your home this summer, it is likely your energy bills will skyrocket. Greater energy expenditure from Australians trying to cool their homes will also increase our national carbon emissions. However, you can take some proactive measures and make a few simple changes to maximise your energy efficiency, improve your sustainability and lower your energy bills. Here are some effective ways to do just that.

1. Service Your Air Conditioning

Servicing your air conditioning is crucial to make sure it works efficiently throughout the summer. Get in contact withan airconditioning repair expert to make sure your unit is running effectively. 

2. Replace Air Filters

Air filters in your air conditioning are responsible for trapping dust particles and other contaminants from entering your home. If your air filters are clogged up, the air conditioning will not be able to cool your house evenly. Make sure you frequently clean and replace your air filters to ensure your HVAC unit is running efficiently and to avoid any respiratory issues.

3. Switch to Low-Rate Plans

If you have moved to a bigger home and are anticipating a drastic increase in your energy consumption, then it is a good idea to switch to a low-rate energy plan. Do the research and compare electricity providers in your area to find the most efficient plan for your home.

4. Get a Smart Thermostat

If you want long-term energy savings, it is time to replace your outdated thermostat with a smart one. A programmable thermostat will automatically adjust the temperature when you are sleeping or out of the house to make the house comfortably cool when you are home. It also ensures you arenot wasting energy cooling an empty house. 

5. Use Fans

Ceiling and table fans are excellent additions to your home. They circulate air and help you cool down while using far less electricity than air conditioning. Or instead of cranking up your air conditioning, you can use a combination of fans and air conditioning to keep your house cool and energy bills under control.

6. Cook Smartly

Preheating the oven for a long period of time can make your house warm and increase the load on HVAC systems. It would be smart to avoid using the oven on extremely hot days. Instead use the microwave or make food that you can cook on the stove.

7. Repair Leaks in Insulation

Inspect your home’s insulation to ensure it doesnot have any leaks or gaps that can lead to energy loss. Also, check ductwork for any leaks and immediately repair them.

8. Keep Your Fridge Full

The refrigerator is utilised throughout the year but is the most importantappliance in the summer months. Take a look at your fridge door seal to prevent cool air from escaping. It is also helpful to keep your fridge relatively stocked so that it doesnot have to work as hard to cool more space.

9. Wash Clothes In Cold Water

Compared to the winter, it is much easier to wash your clothes in cold water during the summer. You can further lower your electricity consumption by line drying clothes instead of putting them in the dryer.

10. Install Low Flow Water Fixtures

Whether you enjoy taking several showers on hot days or watering your lawns, you should consider replacing your water fixtures with low-flow fixtures to conservewater and save on your water bill.

There are many ways you can save money by reassessing the energy efficiency of your home, which will also make it more environmentally sustainable. Get cracking and implement some of the above tips and watch your bills decrease and your long-term savings increase.