A GUIDE TO SUSTAINABLE LIVING IN THE HOME...

SAVE ENERGY

As a society we have become reliant on fossil fuels to generate energy. Each year a typical house pumps approximately 11 tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. The equivalent amount of greenhouse gas would fill 11 average homes.

The benefits of you reducing your energy consumption will be immediate. It will save you money -  and as electricity, gas and fuel becomes more expensive in the future - the savings will prove even more significant. More importantly, your actions today will result in a healthier world for future generations.

A BREAKDOWN OF ENERGY USE IN THE HOME:

THINGS TO DO TODAY

There are many things you can do to save energy that won't cost you a cent, require little effort and will in fact save you money:

By...	Over a Year You Could Save...
Turning your heating thermostat down by 1°C	Approximately 10% off your heating bill
Turning off lights when not being used	Up to 20% off your lighting bill
Taking a shorter shower (4 minutes)	Over one-third off your hot-water heating bill
Use draught stoppers under doors	Save approximately 5% off your heating bill
Switch off infrequently used appliances	Save up to 80% of the energy used
Air-dry clothes instead of using the drier	Save approximately $20 per year in electricity
Unplug and recycle the second fridge	Save $50-$80 per year in electricity

THINGS TO DO TOMORROW

These measures save you money by slowing heat loss from your home over cooler months and preventing heat gain during hot weather:

Do this...	And Save Much Per Year...
Increase insulation	$30
Install double-glazed windows	$100 - $300
Seal draughts	$50
Install external awnings / blinds	$20 - $60
Use ceiling fans to re-distribute warm air in winter	$30
Plant trees on the north and west of your house	$100 - $200

Simple Tips:

• Wear warmer clothes around the house instead of turning up the heating
• Don't leave fridge, freezer or oven doors open any longer than necessary to save energy
• Only run your washing machine if you have a full load
• Use cold water for clothes when you can
• Don't over-fill the kettle for one drink
• Let the sun shine into your house during winter, and use curtains/blinds to block the heat in summer
• Consider installing a solar hot-water heater unit on your roof

FURTHER RESOURCES:

Energy Efficient Appliances, www.energyrating.gov.au

Green Electricity Watch, www.electricitywatch.org

Live and Work Energy Smart, www.energysmart.com.au

Real Green Home, www.realgreenhome.com

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The Sustainable Living Guide links and information provided have been reproduced with permission from the Manningham City Council - Sustainable Living Guide, 2004.