Energy costs continue to rise across Australia, making efficiency upgrades one of the smartest investments you can make.
1. Ceiling insulation. The single most impactful upgrade. Proper insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by 30-45%. In many cases it pays for itself within 2-3 years.
2. LED lighting. Replacing all halogen downlights with LEDs is a quick win. LEDs use 75% less energy and last 15-25 times longer.
3. Draught sealing. Gaps around doors, windows, and exhaust fans let conditioned air escape. Professional draught sealing typically costs $200-$500 and saves $150-$300 annually.
4. Solar hot water or heat pump. Hot water accounts for roughly 25% of household energy use. Switching from electric to solar or heat pump hot water can cut that cost by 50-75%.
5. Double glazing. More expensive upfront but significantly reduces heat transfer through windows. Prioritise north and west-facing windows for the biggest impact.
6. Smart thermostats. Programming your heating and cooling to match your schedule prevents wasted energy. Many households save 10-15% on climate control costs.
7. Ceiling fans. Using fans alongside air conditioning lets you set the thermostat 2-3 degrees higher while maintaining comfort, reducing running costs significantly.
8. External shading. Awnings, pergolas, and shade sails on north and west-facing windows reduce solar heat gain by up to 80%, keeping your home cooler naturally.
9. Efficient appliances. When replacing appliances, choose the highest star rating you can afford. A 5-star fridge uses roughly half the energy of a 2-star model.
10. Pool pump timer. If you have a pool, running the pump during off-peak hours and reducing run time in winter can save $300-$600 per year.