Hey – we’re back!
I hope you had a great Christmas and New Year. We’re feeling refreshed from our break, and we’re ready to get back to keeping your homes and offices running smoothly and efficiently.
Summer is now in full swing. For most of us, that means finding the right balance between enjoying warmer days while trying not to get too hot.
In this newsletter, you’ll find ideas to help you minimise your electricity usage but still enjoy your pool and air conditioning. I also introduce John Caley – a sustainability engineer who specialises in residential energy use reduction.
You can rely on Ku-ring-gai Electrical for all your home and office wiring needs. Call us on 0418 442 578 or email info@kuring.com.au.
Cheers,
Matt Cox
6 Energy-efficient tips for keeping your cool
Swimming pools and air conditioners offer welcome relief from the heat, but their enjoyment comes at a cost.
If you have an in-ground swimming pool, did you realise your pool-maintenance equipment can be responsible for up to 30% of your energy bills? According to government website Your Energy Savings, your pool pump is probably your biggest energy guzzler.
And, did you know that running your air conditioning at lower temperatures can significantly affect your energy consumption? Turning the thermostat down by just 1° in summer can increase your energy usage by 5-10%.
Here are 6 tips for staying cool and comfortable without driving up your power bill.
Tip 1 – Maximise your solar power
If you have solar power, run your air conditioner during the day – even if you aren’t home. That way you’ll be using free power to keep your home cool while preventing heat build-up. Likewise, if you have a pool, set your timer to run during the day.
If you don’t have solar panels, run your pool pump during the off-peak period to save money. This option is only suitable for households receiving “time of use” tariffs from their electricity provider.
Tip 2 – Replace your old and inefficient, single-speed pool pump
Modern pumps are more energy efficient and feature variable speeds. When you’re replacing your swimming pool pump, choose one with a higher energy-star rating.
Tip 3 – Consider switching to LED pool lighting
Low voltage lighting in and around your pool can provide wonderful ambience for evening poolside entertaining. It will also help to reduce your power bills. We can help you with energy efficient lighting plans and installation for your garden and swimming pool. Call 0418 442 578 or email info@kuring.com.au to arrange a time for Matt to visit your home.
Tip 4 – Keep out the heat
Direct sunlight on your windows can rapidly increase the temperature of a room – especially windows facing North or West. Reduce the impact of direct sun by:
Tip 5 – Clean your air-con filter
You can maximise the efficiency of your air conditioner by regularly cleaning the filter.
Tip 6 – Live in the Ku-ring-gai Council area?
If you live within the Ku-ring-gai Council area, you may be eligible to receive a range of advice and assistance to reduce your energy costs. For example, you may be entitled to a rebate on a replacement pool pump. Check with them first before you make any changes.
Expert advice to boost your energy savings
If you’re looking for a way to take your energy savings to the next level, it could be time to speak to an expert like John Caley, from Ecological Design. John is a sustainability engineer who specialises in residential properties.
His company, Ecological Design, provides practical recommendations to lower your household costs by reducing your power and/or water consumption. Ecological Design is an independent business that doesn’t sell products or receive commissions for product recommendations.
John and I have been working together to help clients reduce their household energy consumption. He’s a great guy with a wealth of information to share. John’s website is www.ecologicaldesign.com.au. If you decide to contact him, make sure you let him know Matt sent you!
