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Hacks to keep energy costs down over summer

If you’re dreading your summer energy bill arriving in the mailbox, you’re not alone. Recent research by energy experts, iSelect suggests that 71% of Australians are concerned about their summer energy bills with 87% saying that they’ll be taking some sort of action to help reduce costs.

Energy bills have almost become a permanent burden on the budget but the good news is that there are simple hacks you can apply to keep your energy costs down and make sure you’re getting the best value energy deal.

Summer energy consumption checklist:

 

  • A healthy temperature: Setting air-conditioning to 26 degrees is comfortable while keeping costs down2
  • Consider the alternatives: Try to use fans instead of the air-conditioner for a more cost effective option
  • Keep the sun out: Close windows, doors, curtains and blinds in the morning and keep them shut until a cool change arrives
  • Opt for the clothes line: Take advantage of the warmer weather and use a clothes line instead of the dryer

 

While cutting back around the home can help reduce your energy usage, for many households it may just be a ‘Band-Aid’ solution. Unfortunately how much you pay isn’t determined purely by how much you use – along with usage, your energy bill is also made up of supply charges and service fees.  It’s important to speak to an energy expert to make sure you are on a plan to suit your needs.

Many Australians have adopted a set and forget mindset and have not reviewed their energy plan in years. This means they’re probably paying more than they need to for their energy and missing out lower rates which should ease the pressure on the household budget.

 

iSelect’s top 5 hacks to finding a better value energy deal:

  1. Don’t set and forget – Retailers are now required to notify you when your rate changes or your discount expires. This should prompt you to compare other plans in the market to ensure you’re getting the best value deal.
  2. Look for flexible payment options – Pay your bills weekly, fortnightly or monthly, or sign up for bill smoothing, which will divide your annual usage into even monthly instalments, to avoid bill shock
  3. Don’t be distracted by discounts – Many retailers advertise heavily discounted rates (up to 30% off) but are often conditional. Opting for a retailer that offers a lower ongoing rate without discounts can be cheaper in the long-run, especially if you often pay your bills late.
  4. Look out for special offers – Some retailers will offer you a better deal if you pay on time, manage your bills online or pay by direct debit. Keep an eye out for these special introductory offers but beware they generally expire after a year or two.
  5. Shop around Use increased energy competition to your advantage by comparing current offers. Call an energy comparison service like iSelect3 and make sure you have a copy of your latest bill handy.

About the author

Jessie Petterd

Jessie Petterd is a iSelect spokeswoman

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