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Let's face it, household chores aren't the number one way we want to spend our free time. Unfortunately, they can't be avoided, so at least we can make sure we're not increasing our energy bills in the process. To help you reduce your energy use, here are six smart and simple tips that'll help make your chores more energy-efficient. As a bonus, you might even cut back on the amount of time you spend doing them.
Get dish-smart
Loading up that dishwasher three times a week is much more energy efficient than hand-washing your dishes each and every time you use a glass. If your dishwasher is particularly old, upgrading to an energy efficient model can mean you use less energy and water. In fact, an older dishwasher could be costing you up to 20 per cent more per load.
Switch to a cold water wash
When clothes aren't particularly dirty, go for a cold-water wash. This can reduce your running costs by up to 90 per cent and can also help stop colours from going dull. When you do need to use the warm water wash, you can still reduce your energy usage by choosing economy cycles, auto-load sensing and high-spin settings, and making sure you have a full load of washing.
Ditch the dryer
Yes, it's easier to throw all your washing in the dryer instead hanging it on the line, but you’ll use a lot of energy in the process. When the weather isn’t good enough for line drying your clothes, you can still save money by drying items of a similar weight in the dryer, clearing out lint to improve air circulation, and using the highest spin setting when you wash .
Sweep away energy wastage
Go back to basics and switch the vacuum for a broom when you’re cleaning wooden or tiled floors to cut down on vacuuming time and to save energy. If you’re cleaning carpet, try a carpet sweeper. When you do need to vacuum, choose an energy-efficient mode and clean out the bag to make sure the suction is as powerful as possible.
Save the steam mop
Steam mops are good at what they do, but that sort of thorough cleaning isn’t always necessary. Instead of steam mopping every time you clean the floors, use a regular mop for the most part and save the steam mop for a major quarterly clean.
Reduce ironing
To save energy and see the dreaded ironing pile diminish, try hanging your washing out the moment the washing cycle has finished. This will reduce wrinkles and the need to iron. When you do use the appliance, avoid using the steam function and use a low heat setting. If your clothes are made from delicate fabrics, try ironing them once the appliance is switched off - the iron will be just hot enough to eliminate wrinkles without damaging the fabric.
As you're doing household chores, keep your eye out for ways you can reduce energy expenditure - you’ll be surprised how effective a few small changes can be in decreasing your bill. The right energy plan can also help you save, so try EnergyAustralia’s online quote tool for free to find the right plan for you.
