Summer Power: How to Keep Cool, and Save Money
Summer is upon us, bringing long, hot days and golden sunsets, perfect for soaking in and spending time with loved ones. We are looking forward to this season and the joy it brings. But it can also bring the temptation to crank the aircon. Those hot summer days can get uncomfortable. The good news is that there are things you can do to stay cool and save money on your power bill this summer.
We have put together our top 8 tips to help you save money on power this summer!
1. Compare your Power Bill
Here at Power Compare, we are on a mission to help Kiwis make better decisions about their power plan, ultimately helping them save money. Power Compare’s user-friendly comparison tool empowers you to compare different power plans and providers all in the same place, and filter out preferences based on your unique household needs, so that you can easily and quickly compare, and find a better deal that delivers value and savings. Why pay more when you can pay less and save money this summer!
2. Invest in Energy Efficient Appliances
Do you have an old, weathered fridge, aircon, or chest freezer? It is likely the culprit of higher energy bills as they use a lot of power. It’s always a good idea to invest in modern appliances that have a high energy star rating (and high water rating!). Energy efficient appliances may cost more up-front, but they are incredible at saving you money in the long run on your power bill. They use less energy to do their jobs, therefore, helping you save money month-to-month. Don’t forget to also make sure your light bulbs are LEDs. These use less power to keep you shining!
How Energy Efficient Appliances Save you Money
3. Clean the Aircon Filter
Grab that handheld vacuum cleaner and give your aircon filter some TLC. When the filter is filled with dust, the unit has to work harder to cool down the room, therefore, using more energy to do its job. You can help the unit work more efficiently by cleaning the filter and ensuring it can cool your room down without having to work as hard.
4. Going Away? Turn It Off
If you are going out of town this summer, be sure to turn off your appliances and devices, such as your TV, microwave, coffee machine, oven, and wifi router. When not in use, these appliances fall into standby mode, or vampire power, where they use a small but significant amount of power so that they can be used when you’re ready. Save that money by turning them off when you go away or even when you aren’t using them.
5. Embrace Cool Water
Having a cool shower can help you feel refreshed after a day in the heat. It takes more energy to heat up the water in your home, so your power bill will thank you for giving a cool shower a try. You can also wash your laundry on the cold water setting.
6. Hang Washing Outside
If the sun is out, don’t bother using the dryer. The sun is hot enough to dry your washing in no time, and it’ll leave your clothes and sheets smelling great. Avoid using electricity and using the power of the sun.
7. Use the Barbeque
The oven will only add heat to your home that the aircon will need to get rid of, therefore needing to work harder. Consider ditching the oven this summer where you can and opt for using the barbeque. Besides, the aroma of barbecuing food, whether that’s sausages or corn on the cob, is one of the best parts of summer.
8. Forget the Screens and Get Outside
Summer is the perfect time to reduce your screen time. Reduce your TV and laptop time by embracing the sunny and warm weather, and some of Aotearoa’s most stunning landscapes. Hit the park for a walk and picnic, or the beach for a day by the water. Or you could even get stuck into some arts and crafts in your garden or on the balcony.
Further Reading: