How to save energy when heating & cooling

Here are some tips to help you save energy while staying comfortable.

Cooling tips

Use portable or ceiling fans wherever possible
Keep your shutters, curtains or blinds closed
Shade windows from the outside with eaves, pergolas, verandas, external blinds, trees or awnings
Install ceiling insulation
Consider purchasing a timer or smart thermostat device to automatically switch off your cooling system at times when you don’t need it
If you have an air conditioner, set your thermostat to a comfortable 23 to 26 degrees. Every degree cooler you set the air conditioner adds more to your cooling costs
Clean the filter element of your air conditioner regularly
Set your air conditioner to re-circulate mode when cooling
Limit opening your fridge - it takes three minutes to regain its temperature every time the door is opened
Turn off electrical equipment not in use

Cover windows by closing blinds and curtains
Keep your windows and doors closed
Make sure your home is well insulated
Stop draughts getting into your home by covering any openings at the base of doors or in windows
Dress warmly when inside
Check that the temperature of your home is around a comfortable 18 to 21 degrees. Every degree hotter you set your heating system adds more to your heating costs
Portable heaters such as bar radiators and fan heaters are cheap to buy but costly to run