Electricity bills on the rise? We cannot rule out the fact that electricity makes running our homes much easier than it was centuries back. One of the most common questions a person asks when they’re talking with their local electrician involves how they can reduce their energy bills. More and more people are becoming interested in this, and this is how your electrician can help reduce your electricity bills.
If you’re searching for the best licensed electrician in the Brisbane area and surrounds (Alderley, Ashgrove, Bardon, Stafford, Paddington, The Gap), look no further than Allyn White Electrical.
About Your Electricity Bill
Your electricity bill is made up of a number of costs. Electricity retailers generally bill you in two ways—with fixed charges and variable charges. The variable part of your bill can be influenced directly, for example by changing how and when you use power and by which energy contract you choose.
The fixed charge is a flat daily fee that your retailer charges you to cover costs associated with having an active electricity connection.
Costs shared by all network users also affect your bill. They include network costs—the poles and wires that get electricity to your home—which make up about half of the total electricity costs.
Network costs have been driving up electricity prices in recent times, largely due to the need to maintain and upgrade existing aging infrastructure as well as the need to ensure the network can meet demand at peak times (when everyone is using electricity).
Recent market reforms are working to reduce network costs. By reducing consumption at peak times households can also contribute to a reduction in future network costs, by helping avoid the need for further network upgrades.
#1. Regular Inspection and Maintenance Checks
Over time, the wiring in every house begins to deteriorate. Not only can this affect the amount of power your appliances use, but it can also create dangerous situations that can lead to electrocution or fire. By having your local electrician perform regular electrical inspections, you can not only lower your energy bills, but you can also make sure that your family and home are safe.
#2. Installation of LED Light Bulbs
An inexpensive and simple solution is to have your electrician replace your incandescent light bulbs with LED lights. Previously more expensive than the traditional light bulbs, technological advances have pushed the price down. And, according to the Australian Department of Industry, Innovation and Science, LED globes are four to five times more energy efficient.
#3. Insulation and Sealing
Air leaks are endemic in any house, so when it comes to retaining heat through insulation, it’s better to be over insulated rather than under-insulated. For those located in very hot or very cold regions, getting effective insulation is one of the most vital ways to reduce energy costs, particularly for older, less well-insulated houses.
Another area in the home to check and upgrade is your windows. Windows are one of the most common avenues for heating and cooling air to escape from the house. Double gazing and super windows with multiple layers of film are just some of the options for maximising insulation in window areas.
#4. Going Solar
What better way to reduce your electricity bills by eliminating dependence on the electricity grid and going solar? With government incentives and the feed-in-tariffs grid in Australia, solar systems are cost-effective and allow you to sell energy back to the grid. Some professional electrician services can assist you with choosing and installing a new solar panel system.
How Much Can You Save?
By using energy wisely and adopting energy-saving measures, you can save money and cut down on energy wastage at home while meeting your needs for convenience and comfort.
Whether it’s washing clothes in cold water, adjusting your thermostat or turning off the power at the wall—it all adds up. A family of four could save hundreds of dollars a year by making a few changes.
Hire a Licensed Electrician in Brisbane
If you need help with your electricity bills in Brisbane, contact Allyn White Electrical today. With over 45 years of experience in all aspects of domestic, industrial, commercial and emergency electrical work, Allyn will be able to assist with your electrical problems in Brisbane.
For a free quote by a licensed electrician call 0416 235 641 or simply complete the online enquiry form and we will call and arrange to quote your switchboard and electrical requirements. Our charge out rate remains the same during the week, weekends and after hours, so don’t hesitate to contact us today!
sources: austecelectrical.com.au, electricexpress.com.au, energy.gov.au, platinumelectricians.com.au