Solar energy is at the forefront of the world’s energy revolution. More and more Australians are turning to solar energy to power their homes and businesses. In fact, Australia has the highest amount of solar use globally, with one in four homes now supporting rooftop solar installations.
You want to get the most out of your solar energy, and part of this involves knowing which of your appliances and systems use the most electricity. Knowing the major electricity-consuming appliances or systems can help you use your energy more efficiently, saving you both time and money.
Here’s a look at how you may be consuming electricity in your home, and tips for conservation.
Heating and Cooling 40%
According to Australia’s online guide to sustainable homes, your heating and cooling systems consume most of your home’s electricity, topping out at about 40% of your total use.
How can you save? When investing in an air conditioning system, it’s recommended you focus on choosing the right size for your home and needs. One that’s too big or too small will result in waste.
You may also consider improving the insulation and thermal mass of your home.
What’s the best system? One of the best ways to heat and cool your home is a reverse-cycle air conditioner. This type of system relies on the principles of convection and generates lower levels of greenhouse gas emissions than other types of heating and cooling machinery.
Be sure to check any system you buy for its energy rating label. This will tell you how efficient it is compared to others of similar use and size. The more stars, the better!
Appliances 25%
Your office equipment, TVs, home entertainment systems, laundry, and kitchen appliances all add up to come in second place in electricity use.
When saving, again, look for the right size of appliance to suit your needs. Do you have a smaller family? An apartment-sized washing machine and dryer could be best, for example. These could provide the cleaning space you need while consuming less electricity.
Remember, buying a cheaper appliance will likely cost you more money in the long run, as it will most likely be less energy efficient. You want to avoid wasting money on running costs.
As a rule of thumb, newer appliances generally use less electricity than older ones, and those kept in good condition and well maintained will also be more efficient.
Last but not least, for energy efficiency, remember to turn off appliances you’re not using, especially when you go on holiday.
Hot Water Systems 20%
You might be using more of your electricity to heat your hot water, but on average Australian homes have about 20% of their power go towards this use.
By choosing a heat pump that’s energy efficient and a high performer, you can reduce your electricity consumption.
High-performance solar hot water systems like Solarhart’s are cheaper to run and emit fewer greenhouse gases than those systems that cost less at the outset. In this way, a more expensive system at the beginning is a better long-term investment.
Lighting 10%
Lights! Having a well-lit home adds ambiance and functionality to your daily life. Many incandescent and halogen light bulbs have been phased out from use in Australia. In their place are new CFL and LED bulbs. Both of these offer increased energy efficiency but LED bulbs really are the longest lasting. LED bulbs generally last twice as long as CFLs, so it’s best to go for these when purchasing.
To further save energy, you may consider increasing the entry of natural light into your home via skylights and windows. Again, the sun is your answer!
Installing a solar system on your home is one of the best ways to reduce your reliance on traditional forms of electricity.
Solarhart is your trusted Redlands solar installer with over 65 years in the Australian solar industry. We truly have the best in Redlands solar products to transform your home. Contact us now for a free quote or to learn more about energy efficiency in your home!