Ways to Save Energy in an Apartment
5th November 2024
Apartment living can often be more economical than living in a standalone house, with maintenance and other costs potentially being lower. Another way to save is possibly through your energy bill.
Ever wondered how you can save money on your gas or electricity bill for your apartment? The good news is that there are plenty of simple and inexpensive ways to save.
8 tips to reduce energy consumption in apartments
From lighting adjustments to smart habits in the kitchen and bathroom, these tips are easy to implement and can make a big difference to your apartment’s electricity and gas bills:
1. Lighten up with energy-saving bulbs:
Choosing the right light bulbs will not only make your home more comfortable but also more energy-efficient and cost-effective. Consider making the switch to energy-saving light bulbs like LEDs, which offer longer lifespans and lower electricity costs.
2. Change your laundry habits:
If your apartment is equipped with a laundry, you could consider investing in a newer, more energy-efficient washing machine and dryer. Alternatively, if you don’t have the budget or inclination to do so, there are still easy things you can do to lighten the load in the laundry. Adopt simple habits like waiting for a full load before washing, unplugging machines when not in use, and washing with cold water to save energy.
3. Go easy in the bathroom:
There are many ways you can reduce energy consumption in the bathroom – from using less hot water in the shower (hello, timer!) to reducing your reliance on gadgets like electric razors, electric toothbrushes and hair straighteners. Small changes in behaviour can lead to energy savings over time.
4. Switch off standby power:
Did you know that standby power has an impact on your energy bill? It’s easy to reduce your standby power energy consumption by making a habit of switching off electronics at the wall when not in use and using power strips with on/off switches to control multiple devices more efficiently.
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5. Look in the fridge:
Your refrigerator may be the most energy-guzzling appliance in your kitchen – particularly if it’s an older model. If you’re serious about energy savings, then you may want to consider investing in a newer model with a higher energy rating. There are also things you can do to make sure your current fridge is running more efficiently, such as setting your fridge between 3° - 5°C and your freezer between -15°C to -18°C.
6. Elsewhere in the kitchen:
Cooking costs account for 5% of energy usage. So exploring energy-efficient cooking methods could help lower your energy costs over time. For example, using a toaster instead of an oven grill can save energy. Additionally, consider meal planning and batch cooking to minimise kitchen energy consumption.
7. Lower (or raise) the thermostat:
To minimise the cost of heating or cooling your apartment, raise the thermostat on your air conditioner in summer and lower it in winter. Ideally, it should be set between 24-26°C in summer. Wear another layer in winter or get a fan going in summer to make things more comfortable.
8. Hang window coverings:
Without eaves to protect them, the sun can beat through apartment windows. Hang curtains or blinds to reflect the sun and keep the heat out during summer; in winter, open them so that precious rays warm up your apartment.
The final word
Reducing the energy load in your apartment doesn't have to be complicated. By implementing simple changes such as switching to energy saving light bulbs and adjusting your habits in the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry, you can significantly decrease your energy consumption and work towards lowering your annual bill.
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References
- https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/energy-and-environment/using-saving-energy/calculate-running-costs
- https://www.canstarblue.com.au/electricity/average-electricity-bills/
- https://www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/
- https://www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/energy-efficiency-and-reducing-emissions/save-energy-in-the-home/reduce-cooking-appliance-costs-at-home
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