Replacing Outdated Domestic Appliances May Lead to Financial Savings
upgrade your household appliances could really save you some cash! Here's the scoop:
With household essentials like white goods, heating, cooling, and water heating making up the majority of energy bills, those old, inefficient appliances can quickly take a toll on your wallet.
It might be more cost-effective in the long run to swap out obsolete appliances for newer, energy-efficient models. With electricity costs predicted to keep climbing, this could mean significant savings on your monthly bills.
RACV's Head of New Energy Projects, Tanya Schulze, suggests that household appliances have come a long way when it comes to energy efficiency over the past decade. And with government rebates available for upgrading to energy-efficient models, it might just be the right time to take a fresh look at those trusty old appliances and consider upgrading to something newer.
Don't forget to shop around for an energy provider with an affordable, simple energy plan that suits your household's needs.
So, which appliances are worth upgrading? Here are six to consider:
Heating and Cooling
Victorian households can spend up to $800 a year on heating alone—that's a third of their energy bill! "The most cost-effective way to keep your living space comfortable is with an energy-efficient split-system heating and cooling air conditioner," Tanya advises. Go for a system with the highest number of energy-rating stars within your budget. Selecting a new model with smart-app zoning will allow you to control heating and cooling only in the rooms you're using, rack up savings, and enjoy a comfortable temperature when you arrive home.
Hot Water Systems
Water heating can account for 16 to 18 percent of your energy bill, and choosing the right hot water system can save you that chunk of change. "The most cost-effective way to heat your water is with a heat pump hot water system," Tanya says. These systems work by transferring the heat outside the unit to the water inside the heater, using up to 75 percent less electricity compared to other hot water systems. Plus, if you have rooftop solar connected to your pump, you can heat your water using renewable energy. Remember to regularly service your hot water system to keep it running smoothly.
Fridges and Freezers
Fridges and freezers are notorious energy guzzlers, consuming a whopping 13 percent of the average Victorian household's energy bill. Opt for an energy-efficient model with a high number of stars on its Energy Rating Label to minimize energy costs in the long run. Aim for a model with a freezer on top instead of below or side-by-side to save on energy consumption. Keep the thermostat set correctly—3°C for the fridge and -18°C for the freezer, and avoid placing fridges in hot areas like near the oven or in direct sunlight.
Dishwashers
Upgrading your dishwasher can lead to significant savings, especially since most Victorian households use them between 4 and 7 times a week. Choose a new dishwasher with a high number of Energy Rating and Water Rating stars for maximum energy savings. Opt for a model with both cold and hot-water connections to reduce heating costs, and consider a delay start function for off-peak or solar power usage.
Clothes Dryers
Clothes dryers are major contributors to energy use, while running an average load of washing through a clothes dryer costs around 44 cents. Opt for a heat pump clothes dryer for more energy efficiency and lower running costs. Load-sensing, auto-sensors, and energy-saving functions can help save extra dollars, while using a clothesline or drying rack when weather permits is also a smart move.
Washing Machines
Aim for a washing machine model with at least a four-star energy rating and a five-star water rating. Front loaders use 50 percent less water than top loaders, making them a wise choice. Opt for a model with both hot and cold water connections, and consider smart features such as load-sensing technology and programmable timers for even more savings. Only run washes with a full load, and wash on cold as often as possible to save energy.
To maximize savings, make sure to check the Energy Rating Label when purchasing a new appliance and choose the model with the highest number of stars within your budget. For more information on conserving energy, read about hidden energy users in your home (like that computer or game console), and don't forget to shop around for an energy supplier that fits your household needs.
Many new appliances come equipped with smart technology, allowing for remote temperature control and energy savings, especially if you have rooftop solar. Use your smartphone to take advantage of solar power while away from home, control your air conditioner to pre-cool the house before arrival, and more.
After analyzing household expenses, it's evident that energy-efficient appliances can bring down costs, especially in the long run. For instance, an energy-efficient split-system heating and cooling air conditioner can reduce heating bills, saving up to a third of the energy expenditure. Furthermore, investing in an energy-efficient hot water system, such as a heat pump hot water system, can lower water heating costs by up to 75% compared to other systems.
