Conducting a home energy audit is an excellent way to identify areas in your home where energy is being wasted and make simple improvements that can lead to significant energy savings. These savings can make a real difference in these challenging times with increasing power bills. To get started, here are some tips on conducting your own quick home energy audit, followed by ways to improve your energy efficiency.
Assess your appliances
Old or in poor condition appliances can consume a lot of energy. These appliances might be pool filters, small fan heaters, old fridges and air conditioning units that require maintenance.
To find out how much energy an appliance consumes without a smart meter, you can check the wattage on the base and calculate daily cost by: 1. Multiplying the wattage of the appliance by the number of hours used per day; 2. Divide this by 1000 to obtain your daily kWh; 3. Multiply by the rate per kWh on your energy bill to determine how much the appliance costs you each day. Another method is to turn off all your appliances except the one you’re testing and look at your electricity meter to see how many revolutions it does in a minute. The faster it goes, the more energy the appliance is using.
Tips to improve energy efficiency
Check your appliances for signs of wear and tear and consider replacing them with newer, more energy-efficient models by following the Energy Star ratings.
Switch off unused appliances at the wall, as they are still drawing power even when not in use or on standby. Consider getting smart plugs, as you can set timers on appliances to be switched off when not in use.
Avoid overloading the clothes dryer, and use it as little as possible by hanging the washing out to dry naturally.
Use the washing machine and dishwasher only when you have a full load and a shorter cycle where possible.
Check your hot water usage
Hot water is used mainly in the bathroom, laundry, and kitchen. This means that by using less hot water, you can significantly reduce your energy and water costs while also lowering your greenhouse gas emissions. The hot water system is one of the biggest energy-consumption appliances in your home. Use the tips in the first section to check how much energy yours is consuming and whether it needs replacing, maintenance, or simply adjusting how you use it.
Tips to improve energy efficiency
Take shorter showers - showering under four minutes can save up to $200 annually on water and energy bills.
Use a low-flow showerhead - the higher the water rating and the lower the flow rate, the less energy and water you will use.
Wash clothes in cold water as much as possible.
If your hot water system needs replacing, choose an energy-efficient one, such as a heat pump water heater or solar hot water system, if it is within your budget. Ensure it is the right system size for your household by getting advice from the supplier.
Check that the thermostat on your hot water system is set to a minimum of 60 degrees celsius (to prevent harmful bacteria from forming) and no more than 65 degrees celsius.
Assess your heating/cooling usage
How do you heat and cool your home? If you use split systems or ducted air conditioners, check that they operate at the right temperature each season and are serviced regularly, as a dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause your system to work harder, increasing your energy consumption.
Tips to improve energy efficiency
Turn off lights, fans, air conditioners and appliances when you leave the room.
If you have an air conditioner, set it at around 25 degrees celsius for maximum efficiency when cooling or 18-20 degrees celsius in heat mode to warm your home efficiently. You can save up to 10% on cooling costs for every one degree that you raise the temperature.
Get your air conditioning units serviced by a professional at least annually to ensure better air quality, improved energy efficiency, and lower running costs.
Cleaning the dust filters per the manufacturer's instructions a few times a year can help ensure optimum performance.
Check for air leaks
Air leaks are one of the most significant sources of energy waste in homes. Identify air leaks in your home by checking the areas around doors, windows, and electrical outlets for gaps or cracks. You can use a smoke pencil or an incense stick to detect leaks—if the smoke or incense moves, you've found one.
Tips to improve energy efficiency
Install weatherstripping around your doors and windows to seal gaps and cracks, preventing drafts and cool or hot air from escaping. This simple step can reduce your energy bills by up to 20%.
Seal any gaps or cracks in your walls with caulk or foam sealant.
Inspect your insulation
Check your attic, basement, and walls for inadequate insulation. Replace or repair any damaged or missing insulation to ensure that your home retains heat in winter and stays cool in summer. Insulation is also the most cost-effective way to improve your home's energy efficiency and comfort. For more information on insulation, visit https://www.yourhome.gov.au/passive-design/insulation
Check your lighting
Switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs and ensuring your light fixtures are in good condition can significantly reduce lighting energy consumption. LEDs use 75% less energy than halogen bulbs and last 5-10 times longer, reducing replacement costs and the number of bulbs that end up in landfills. A bonus is that they can fit in most existing fittings, and the initial cost of LEDs has a payback time of under a year.
Do you require an electrician to conduct your home energy audit?
If you find the above steps challenging and need expert assistance, our team of Gold Master Electricians can help you conduct a home energy audit by assessing your lighting, power, air conditioning, solar (if applicable) and appliances. You will receive a detailed audit report, including recommendations and an overall energy rating for your home. To schedule your home energy audit, please get in touch with our team at 1800 940 413 or info@ehlerthelectrical.com.au
