Energy Saving Tips for Aussie Families That Actually Work

Energy costs in Australia keep climbing & with the rising cost of living, Aussie families are keen to cut back without compromising on comfort. The good news? You don’t have to sweat it out in summer or freeze in winter to save. These practical, no-fuss energy saving tips actually work, and won’t throw your household into chaos.

1. Switch Off at the Wall – Not Just the Remote

Standby power is a sneaky culprit. Appliances like TVs, gaming consoles, microwaves, and chargers continue to draw power even when not in use. In fact, standby usage can account for up to 10% of your household electricity bill. The fix? Switch off appliances at the wall when you’re done, it’s a small habit with big savings.

2. Embrace the Aussie Sun – Use Natural Light

With most of Australia enjoying over 2,000 hours of sunshine a year, there’s no reason to keep the lights on during daylight hours. Open your blinds, move desks or reading spots near windows, and take full advantage of natural light. Bonus: it lifts your mood and cuts your power bill.

3. Time Your Appliances Smartly

Using major appliances during off-peak hours can seriously reduce costs if you’re on a time-of-use tariff. Run your dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer late in the evening or early morning. And while you’re at it, only wash full loads, half loads waste both water and energy.

4. Cool Smarter, Not Harder

In summer, ceiling fans are far cheaper to run than air conditioning. But when the heat really kicks in, make sure you’re using the A/C wisely:

• Set it to 25–26°C (each degree cooler can add around 10% to your running cost).
• Keep doors and windows shut.
• Use curtains or blinds to block direct sunlight.

And don’t forget to clean your filters, clogged filters force the system to work harder and cost you more.

5. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Old appliances are energy hogs. If your fridge, washing machine, or dryer is over 10 years old, consider upgrading to newer models with high energy star ratings. They might cost more upfront but can save hundreds in running costs over time. Look for the blue and yellow energy rating label, the more stars, the better.

6. Ditch the Dryer, Love the Clothesline

There’s something beautifully Aussie about line-drying your clothes. It’s free, fresh, and easy on fabrics. Given how sunny our climate is, dryers should be a last resort, not the default. Save the power-hungry machine for rainy days or emergencies.

7. Seal Those Gaps

Little drafts can lead to big heating or cooling losses. Use weather strips on doors and windows, check for gaps under doors, and close off rooms you’re not using. Your heating and cooling system won’t have to work overtime, and you’ll notice the difference on your next bill.

8. Go Solar (If You Haven’t Already)

If you’ve got a sunny roof and haven’t gone solar yet, what are you waiting for? A well-sized solar system can slash your power bills and even earn you credits via feed-in tariffs. Plus, government rebates make it more affordable than ever in 2025. It’s a long-term investment that pays off big time.

The Bottom Line

Energy saving doesn’t mean living in the dark or constantly adjusting the thermostat. With a few smart changes and some Aussie common sense, you can keep your home comfortable while trimming down those electricity bills. Try a few of these tips and watch the savings roll in your wallet.