Energy consumption is a hot topic across the globe, thanks to global warming and the melting of the ice caps.
But, energy consumption also affects people on a more personal level. The cost of energy has been steadily rising over the last 10 years, it’s not just inflation or limited resources, the cost of upgrading networks and keeping up with the digital demand has all affected the price. Unfortunately, it’s the consumer the bears the cost.
In fact, in Australia electricity is considered the primary cost of living concern for many people. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your energy consumption.
1. Professional Help
Contact a level 2 electrician and get your home inspected. Alongside locating issues with your wiring a professional can check to see if you have any electrical leakage. This is when electricity s carried around the appliances and in the cables, usually going to earth but costing you a few cents in the process.
These cents add up surprisingly quickly, you may be surprised at how much your electricity bill reduces by if you have the issue resolved.
2. Unplug Appliances
If you leave your television or other appliances plugged in when you are using electricity when you don’t need to. Anything left on standby will draw electrical current. Equally, if you leave a cell phone plugged in after it has been fully charged, it will still pull power from the grid.
In short, if you’re not using it then unplug it.
3. Insulation
Insulation is a fantastic way of keeping the warm or cool air in your home. Although it costs to install insulation, you’ll quickly recoup this cost by making impressive savings on your energy bills.
There are a variety of different insulation products on the market, you are sure to find one that fits, depending on what you need
4. Go Green
Another idea that has an upfront cost is to go green. The simplest way is to purchase solar panels and use them to power specific circuits in your home. You can expand the circuit at any time. If you wish you can add batteries to give you power after the sun has gone, or you can connect them to the grid. This allows you to sell excess energy to the power company and still access electricity when you need it.
It should be noted that you’ll need a qualified electrician to connect you to the grid.
5. Meter It
Finally, you should consider getting an electrical meter, also referred to as a home energy meter. This will show you where the energy is being used in your home, allowing you to make changes in your lifestyle or even consider changing some of your appliances.
Monitoring your energy consumption is an effective way of changing the way you live and behave to reduce your energy usage. This doesn’t have to be difficult, simply change your thermostat by a degree or use your air conditioner a little less.