Reducing your energy consumption and Power bills.

Your Grid Connected Solar system will either reduce or eliminate your power bills. However you can make a big difference by being more aware of your power consumption and how to reduce it.

10 ways to reduce your electricity usage.

1. Ensure that you use low energy globes - replace all incandescent globes with fluorescent globes.
   
   
2. When purchasing new appliances look for the energy efficiency information to make an informed decision.
   
   
3. Switch off standby loads. A lot of electrical and electronic devices consume electricity even when they are off. By turning off the appliance at the socket one can save hundreds of dollars a year. Examples of devices that use standby power are telephone and laptop chargers, TVs microwave ovens, Stereo equipment.
   
   
4. Avoid the use of Quartz halogen globes and down lights these are very inefficient.
   
   
5. Install a Gas or Solar hot water service these are more efficient and cost effective.
   
   
6. Utilise motion sensors for lighting or simply turn off when not in use. (be careful though automated motion sensors for lighting consume electricity in the standby mode)
   
   
7. Ensure house is well insulated , making heating and cooling more effective and therefore reducing costs
   
8. Turn the thermostat down. By using a more effective settings and dressing for the climate one can reduce spacing heating costs. Additionally combining energy efficiency into house design such as providing blinds and curtaining.
   
   
9. Ensure that windows and doors are sealed properly. Cold drafts from these sources significantly reduce the effectiveness of space heating appliances.
   
   
10. Provide shading of northerly or westerly exposed brick walls can significantly reduced heat loading during summer months.