In the present world, the focus on saving energy is not an option, it is a necessity. With the rising energy prices and environmental crisis, it makes sense to reduce energy consumption.

But how can one go about doing that efficiently? 

Here are 10 ways to help you effectively minimise your energy bills and cut carbon emissions with the Victorian Energy Upgrade program or VEU. If you want to save money and be a responsible citizen, then these tips will come in handy.

Quick Wins with LED Lighting

One good starting point to cut costs and conserve energy is using energy-efficient light bulbs. LED light bulbs utilise 85% less energy and have a much longer life then the regular bulbs. So it is best to replace them promptly and say goodbye to high electricity bills.

The question is why go for LEDs?

Well, the answer for this question is:

• Less energy consumption than incandescent light bulbs.
• 10 to 25 times longer lifespan than any other type of bulbs.
• Comes in different designs that can fit a specific area.

Residential and commercial premises have started to replace their regular lighting with LEDs, reducing their energy costs up to 55%. If you want to receive the same results, be sure to visit Direct Building Solutions Australia for LED upgrades.

High-Quality Sealing to Prevent Air Exchange

Windows and doors that allow the air to escape or enter a room are called “dafts”. These drafts add irregular air exchange to a unit and in turn increases its heating or cooling cost. Proper sealing of these openings enables temperature control and conservation of energy. 

The proper method of wall sealing are as following:

• Inspection of doors and windows for drafts
• Using caulk or weather strips to fill in the cracks
• Using door sweeps to prevent cold air from entering

Ensure that the sealing is placed and working properly. You will feel an immediate change in room temperature after the application.

Upgrading Hot Water System with Newer Models

Hot water systems can account for higher bills and energy wastage in many cases. Replacement of the old system with a newer and efficient model not only saves energy, it also reduces bills.

Here are some models to consider for replacement:

• Heat pump hot water system draws in air from the surroundings and only then warm the water. A Melbourne family was able to save $400 a year after making the switch.
• Solar water heaters use solar energy to warm the water, thereby reducing energy usage significantly. 

If you require further information, be sure to contact us either by call or enquiry.

Use Upgraded Shower Heads to Conserve More Water

Upgraded shower heads effectively reduce the moisture while retaining water pressure for usage. This leads to a decrease in water and energy wastage, giving users the same comfort as before. 

Here is the effectiveness of water saving shower heads:

• It effectively reduces flow up to 30%, saving water.
• Water and heating bills are lowered due to decreased resource consumption.
• Proven results with happy customers.

We offer upgraded shower heads at no cost, under the Victorian Energy Update (VUE) program.

Choose Energy Saving Appliances

Worn out and outdated appliances amount to a huge loss in energy. Upgrading them to inverted fitted or upgraded appliances not only saves energy, it also saves electrical wiring of a premises. 

Some of the top energy-efficient picks for appliances include:

• Inverter refrigerators that use energy sparingly and increase the duration to keep the food fresh.
• Energy-efficient washing machines take less power and water per load, translating to savings in the long-run.

Using Natural light More Often

Try using sunlight as a source of illumination more often and avoid the use of electric lights as much as possible. It gives you a natural light throughout the day, eliminating the unnecessary usage of electricity.

Tips through which you can maximise natural light use:

• During the daytime, sunlight must be allowed to enter which requires omission of blinds.
• Light coloured curtains can give residents privacy while allowing light to illuminate the room easily.
• Moving mirrors to throw the light into shadowed parts of the room.

Improving Efficiency with Air Conditioning Upgrades

Many outdated air conditioner units consume more energy and often carry hefty maintenance costs. Upgrading to modern, high-performing units keeps the temperature consistent while cutting expenses significantly. 

Here are some of the benefits that you receive for upgrading to new air con units:

• New models consume 30% to 50% less energy in KWh.
• You will experience enhanced comfort during winters and summers with even temperature.
• Most Brisbane homes did air con installation and managed to decrease cooling costs by 40%.

If you want ducted air conditioning for businesses or split system air conditioning for homes in Victoria, be sure to contact us now.

Go for Good Quality Insulation

Proper insulation allows for the maintenance of comfortable rooms throughout the winter season. It creates packets of warm and cold air, reducing the need of heating and cooling systems. 

Insulation works in two ways:

• It controls temperature inside the room and responds as a shield to vary regulation accordingly.
• Will help you lower costs and relieve you of expensive HVAC systems.

Regular Maintenance of HVAC Systems

It is important to conduct regular check-ups of your HVAC systems to maintain its efficiency. Your simple habit can prolong the life of your systems and prevent wastage of energy during use. 

Use this checklist for your next maintenance for maximum benefit:

• Regular changing of filters (few month intervals)
• Wipe the coils with clean cloth to optimise its performance
• Regular assessment of ducts for any leakages

Take Advantage of Subsidy and Rebates Programs

When switching to energy-efficient measures, there is little to no cost that you need to bear. A government scheme such as Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program allows the expansion of adopting sustainable measures as they provide the funds to assist in the transition.

Understanding the Program

• Victorian energy rebates and discounts assist in financing the portion or the total amount required for some specific upgrades.
• Available to Victorian individuals and businesses where eligibility and conditions apply.
• Obtain discounts or free upgrades as incentives to motivate for upgrading.

Conclusion

It should be noted that some great savings can be achieved for fairly minimal investments. Every measure taken to switch to air con or LED upgrades is for the reduction of energy consumption and environmental sustainability. Direct Building Solutions Australia has the tools and expertise to help you switch to a more energy-efficient measure and inform of your eligibility to rebates.

Contact us today and enjoy a free energy assessment.