At Home
Many Queenslanders live in homes that work against the climate, rather than with it. These homes are often energy inefficient, too cold or too hot and comparatively expensive to run. In addition, many homes are now also being used for
home-based businesses which imposes further energy demands.
There are a number of relatively cheap and simple things consumers can do to lower their energy use and be EnergyWise.
Home EnergyWise Kit
The Home EnergyWise Kit contains energy efficiency information and do-it-yourself auditing tools to help consumers identify energy use patterns in the home, and take positive steps to reduce their energy consumption and lower their energy bills.
EnergyWise fact sheets
- Energy Efficient Lighting - a simple way to save (PDF - 88KB)
- Air conditioning - keep cool, keep costs down (PDF - 84KB)
- Insulation (PDF - 88KB)
- Energy ratings - saving money and the planet (PDF - 93KB)
- Standby power - turn it off at the wall and save (PDF - 91KB)
- Major standby power guzzlers (PDF - 86KB)
Since 1 March 2006 all new homes built in Queensland have been required to install energy efficient hot water systems (solar, gas or electric heat pump) and use energy efficient lighting for at least 40 percent of internal floor space. These energy efficiency measures form part of the Sustainable Housing Legislation.
Other Queensland Government departments such as the Environmental Protection Agency and the Office of Climate Change deliver a range of initiatives to help consumers improve the energy performance and thermal comfort of their homes.
The National Framework for Energy Efficiency is also examining ways to improve minimum energy efficiency standards for homes and provide energy information to purchasers and/or lessees of buildings.
Household appliances
The average Queensland home contains many appliances such as a washing machine, tumble dryer, television, video, DVD player, stereo etc. Each new appliance adds to the energy demand and energy costs for the household. However, buying energy efficient appliances and using them more efficiently can help householders reduce energy consumption and save on energy bills.
Most new appliances contain energy rating labels that allow consumers to compare the appliance's energy efficiency and running costs. The more stars, the more energy efficient the appliance.
When you have purchased and installed a new appliance in your home you can reduce your standby power consumption by turning it off at the wall (where practical) when it is not in use.
Some appliances such as airconditioners can be used more efficiently. The most comfortable and energy efficient temperatures for airconditioners are 240C during summer in South-East Queensland (250C in other areas of Queensland) and 190C during winter. Good housing design and the use of insulation can also reduce the need for airconditioners.
The EnergyWise Calculator helps you estimate the electricity costs of running household appliances.
The National Framework for Energy Efficiency is working nationally to further improve the energy efficiency of appliances and equipment.
Last Updated 29 July 2008
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