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KEY POINTS:
TURN OFF APPLIANCES
Stand-by power is about 10 per cent of a household's electricity use and costs around $100 million a year, enough to power 77,000 homes. If any lights or clocks are glowing on your TV, microwave or video they're using power. Turn them off at the wall when you're not using them.
CHECK THE ENERGY RATING WHEN BUYING NEW PRODUCTS
Energy Rating labels are a good way of comparing the energy use of appliances - a star-based system to identify the energy efficiency of products.
Many top models have four or more stars, with each additional star meaning an extra 10 per cent saved on running costs.
Energy Star is an independent mark that helps identify the most energy efficient products. It is now used on many products, from heat pumps through to home electronics such as televisions and computers.
COMPACT FLUORESCENT LAMPS
Lighting consumes about 8 per cent of the energy used in a typical household. Energy efficient bulbs, such as compact fluorescent lamps, use up to 75 per cent less power and last up to 10 times longer. Replacing the four most-used bulbs can save $75 on an annual power bill.
Compact fluorescents are highly efficient bulbs that deliver as much light as conventional bulbs but use much less electricity. They can be bought at supermarkets and at the moment are subsidised by the Electricity Commission.
FRIDGES
Fridges are the most energy-hungry appliance in the home, and one in six fridges doesn't run efficiently. Here are a few simple tips on how to get the most out of your fridge:
* Set the temperature correctly - if lettuces freeze it is too cold. Aim for 3C to 5C.
* Check the seals. Make sure they are not cracked and fit tightly against the door. Seals can be easily replaced and are sold at appliance stores.
* Allow space at the back of your fridge for air to circulate.
* Keep the coils clean. Older fridges have coils which, when dusty, require more energy to keep cold.
* Cool leftovers before adding them to the fridge. This reduces power needed to cool them down.
* Keep the door shut. This avoids cold air escaping and more energy being used to keep the temperature down.
* Keep your fridge full, as items retain the cold and help keep the temperature down.
* Defrost food in the fridge. This will help keep the fridge cooler and prevent any flies/pets from getting at your food.
* Use a chest freezer. These minimise the amount of cool air that escapes.
