Tips to Trim Your Energy Bills This Christmas
As the holidays get closer, our homes light up with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the cosy warmth of the holiday spirit. While this time of year is magical, it can be harsh on our energy bills. The bright displays and friendly gatherings often mean a surprise increase in electricity use. From the month of July, Australia has already experienced a rise in their energy bills by up to 25%, and in this upcoming festive season, chances are it might rise even more.
Don't worry – by using some energy-saving tricks, you can have a warm celebration of Christmas without breaking the bank on energy costs. In this article, we'll explore the possible reasons for an increased bill and share practical tips to bring down your energy bills so you can enjoy the season without any unpleasant surprises when the electricity bill shows up.
Why Christmas Season Means Increased Energy Expenses?
• Cooking and Baking: Elaborate holiday meals involving ovens and other kitchen appliances for extended periods contribute to increased energy consumption.
• Electronic Gadgets: The exchange and use of electronic gifts and increased screen time for holiday entertainment lead to higher energy use.
• Decorative Lights: Using bright holiday lights, especially traditional incandescent ones, and keeping them on for extended periods contribute to higher energy usage.
• Household Activity: Hosting guests, organizing gatherings, and spending more time at home during the holidays result in a continuous demand for energy due to appliances being in use.
• Heating and Cooling: In colder climates, the need for heating increases during winter holidays, while in warmer regions, air conditioning may be used more frequently during festive gatherings.
What Are the Possible Solutions for Reducing Energy Costs in Festive Season?
Celebration time of the year already means a lot of extra expenses, and paying extra money on the bills is the last thing you would want to face. So, we have come up with six most practical suggestions that could help you fight the pressure of rising power bills.
1. Prioritize Appliances with High Energy Ratings:
When shopping for new appliances this festive season, prioritize those with a 6 star energy rating or the highest rating available in your region. The energy rating system provides valuable information about an appliance's energy efficiency. Choose appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners with higher star ratings, as they operate more efficiently while saving you money over the long term. While these appliances may have a higher upfront cost, their energy savings can lead to substantial financial benefits in the years to come.
2. Energy-Efficient Lighting Choices:
Celebration season means lots of lighting and creating the ambience for a festive mood. It might seem an essential tradition for Christmas, but it can be considered as a good reason behind an increased power bill. To combat the pressure of rising power bills, consider swapping out traditional incandescent bulbs for energy-efficient alternatives like LED or CFL bulbs. These options consume significantly less energy, last longer, and emit less heat. By making this simple switch throughout your home, especially in frequently used areas and holiday decorations, you can illuminate your space without burning a hole in your pocket.
3. Smart Temperature Control Practices:
Regulating your home's temperature efficiently is a crucial strategy to tackle escalating power costs. A thermostat that is programmable can be a great addition as it can automate temperature adjustments based on your daily routine. Set lower temperatures when you're away or asleep and higher temperatures when you're at home. This makes sure that your heating and cooling systems are not working unnecessarily. Also, your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems should be well-maintained. A maintained HVAC system provides better temperature control while consuming less energy.
4. Mindful Usage of Appliances:
An often-overlooked aspect of energy conservation is being aware of how you use your appliances. During the Christmas holidays, people often forget to manage their electronics and keep them on even when not in use. Ensure that lights, electronics, and small appliances are switched off when not in use. Additionally, adjust screen brightness and enable power-saving modes on electronic devices to conserve energy. Devices like chargers consume power even when not actively charging. Unplug chargers and turn off the switches when they're not in use to prevent unnecessary phantom energy consumption.
5. Strategic Cooking and Baking:
The holiday season often involves extensive cooking and baking, contributing to increased energy consumption. To mitigate this, plan your holiday meals strategically to optimize energy use. Use smaller appliances like slow cookers and microwaves when possible and batch cooking to make the most of your oven's heat. Keeping lids on pots to retain heat and reduce cooking times is an effective practice. This not only saves energy but also allows you to spend more festive time with loved ones.
6. Insulating Your Home:
A well-insulated home is more energy-efficient, reducing the strain on your power bills not only during the holiday season but also the whole year. Try to seal any gaps or cracks in doors and windows. In your attic and walls, you can add insulation, as this helps maintain a consistent temperature indoors. By creating a more insulated environment, your heating and cooling systems won't have to work as hard, leading to long-term savings. Also, it is always wise to do an energy rating assessment and confirm that the entire house is energy efficient.
Does Your House Have a 6 Star Energy Rating?
Ensure your house is ready for the holidays and stays efficient throughout the year by confirming its 6 star energy rating. For a complete assessment, rely on Superior Energy Rating, your reliable partner in optimizing home energy performance.
Last words
In conclusion, it is true that Christmas is the time for celebration, but by making some simple changes in our traditional practices, we can make a big difference. If we follow some regulations and be a bit more careful, we can create an energy-efficient home in this happy season. These little steps can not only save us from paying a large amount on our energy bills but also help us create a sustainable future.
