@FeeBee21
Hi FeeBee,
Some things to look at to bring down the cost of electricity.
Obvious things first;
- Have you replaced the lights to using LED's (I know most have)
- Is there a booster for the Hot Water Service?
- Does the fish tank have a heater? If so that will use more than the light, aerator or filter. Can you change to cold water species instead of tropical varieties?
- What is the energy rating on your Fridge and/or Freezer? These are on 24/7 and more efficient models do make a difference.
- Do you use a clothes dryer? These use a lot of power. The free solar systems are more economical.
Some less obvious;
- Is your Air Con a split system or wall/window mounted? If it is a split system then the outside part is probably consuming power all the time, even when not in operation. This can be reduced with some planning.*
- Are you on the best plan for your usage patterns? Personally I make more electricity than I use with a Solar/Battery system, so my important parameters are the Daily Charge and Feed In Tariff. Yours probably will be different. If your usage is known then an optimal plan can be suggested.
- Are you on a flat rate or time of use? If it is time of use then try to use items with a heavy load (Oven, Electric Range, Washing Machines, Dishwasher etc.) during the off peak periods. This can be inconvenient as it is normally after 10pm and on weekends. Use of timers can help to run things when you are asleep.
- Have you applied for a rebate for your home medical device? In some States this can be available through the Dept of Health (ask to speak to a local Social Worker)
The Stereo and TV probably do not consume a lot of power, assuming they are fairly modern models.
*Turn your AC off at the switchboard when you are not going to be using it for an extended period. Remember to switch it back on a couple of hours prior to running it again. The heater in the unit can consume approx 60 - 120 watts in standby. This is 1.44 to 2.88 kWh a day or about 130 to 260 kWh a quarter. If the average cost is 40c/kWh that is $50 to $100 a quarter ($4 to $8 a week). A high price for convenience.
