If you’re looking at upgrading to new appliances in 2014, there are many things consumers should take into account but arguably none are more important the energy efficiency of the appliance. With prices of many appliances actually decreasing in Australia in recent years from a stronger dollar and increased competition, it’s worth investing more and buying the most efficient appliances you can afford.
This is especially important as energy prices in Queensland are set to rise by a projected $192.00 dollars for the average household this year.
What appliances use the most electricity?
Not all appliances will use the same amount of electricity. The 5 most power hungry appliances in the home based on their average annual running costs according to Choice.com.au are:
- Electric Hot water System – $593.00
- Large Air Conditioners – $534.00
- Clothes Dryer – $203.00
- Family Sized Fridges – $149.00
- Dishwashers – $129.00
The appliance rating scheme rates appliances between 1-6 stars for their energy efficiency. Note: New air conditioners are rated between 1-10 stars to compensate for more efficient models that exceed 6 stars.)
In addition to choosing the model with the highest star rating, we also recommend turning off appliances that aren’t being used at the wall to cut standby usage and doing away with additional power hungry appliances that you could live without i.e. a second fridge, or a clothes dryer.
Unless you have a large family and need a big fridge, washing machine or air conditioner it can also make sense to downgrade to a smaller appliance which will consume less, when buying new appliances.
What other options are there lowering my energy bill?
As well as upgrading to more energy efficient appliances, (replacing electric hot water with solar and gas you may be able save hundreds per year) there are other strategies you can invest in to cut your electricity use. One of the biggest areas we can help energy conscious homeowners here at Bevan Robinson Electrical is connecting them to more energy efficient tariffs which reward users with a lower power rate for using energy at different times of day. Call us on (07) 3893 2792
How can I calculate expected running costs of different appliances?
Ever wanted to know just how much a new model of appliance you are considering is going to cost to run? You can thanks to the very useful Australian Government’s Energy Usage Comparison Tool. This includes televisions, dishwashers and all the other power hungry appliances mentioned above.
If you have other questions about saving energy in the home and advice about a range of energy saving options in the home give your friendly local electricians in Morningside a call at Bevan Robinson Electrical today.
Written by Julian Groneberg – Content Writer Brisbane