Let the air flow
Before switching on the air conditioner, take advantage of the natural breeze. Open windows early in the morning and again in the evening when the air is cooler. Create cross-ventilation by opening windows or doors on opposite sides of the house. Once the day warms up, close everything to trap the cool air inside.
Fans: the unsung heroes of summer
Ceiling or pedestal fans are a low-cost way to make the heat more bearable. They don’t lower the temperature, but they move air across your skin to make it feel several degrees cooler.
Sensible settings for your air conditioner
Cranking the air conditioner to freezing won’t cool your home faster - it just uses more energy. Keep it between 24°C and 26°C for comfort and savings. Clean or replace filters every month during heavy use, and close doors to unused rooms so you’re only cooling the spaces you need.
Keep the heat where it belongs - outside
Good insulation is one of the most effective ways to cut power costs. Up to half the energy used for cooling can be lost through the roof if your ceiling isn’t insulated properly. If you’re renting, temporary fixes like door snakes and removable window film can help keep the heat out.
Blinds, curtains and external awnings are another easy win. Close them during the hottest hours, to block direct sunlight. Light-coloured curtains or reflective blinds can bounce heat away before it builds up inside.
Lights that don’t cook your living room
Traditional bulbs waste most of their energy as heat. Swapping to LED or CFL lighting reduces electricity use by around 75% and keeps your space cooler. While you’re at it, turn lights off in empty rooms - it’s the easiest saving of all.
Cool meals and clever cooking
Summer is the perfect excuse to ditch the oven. Try fresh salads, cold pasta dishes or wraps. Cooking outdoors on the barbecue keeps the heat out of your kitchen, and slow cookers or air fryers are efficient alternatives when you need something hot. Even small changes, like only boiling the amount of water you need, can make a difference.
Laundry shortcuts that save
Cold water washes work for most fabrics and cut down energy use dramatically. Choose quick wash cycles and wait until you have a full load. Skip the dryer whenever possible - the humble clothesline gives you sunshine, fresh air and zero running costs.
Smarter showering
A shorter shower can save litres of hot water and the electricity used to heat it. Swap to a water-saving showerhead for extra efficiency and make a game of it - try to finish before your favourite song ends.
Pool power without the punch
If you’re lucky enough to have a pool, set the pump to run in off-peak hours and fit a pool cover when it’s not in use. The cover reduces evaporation, cuts down on top-ups and helps retain warmth, meaning less heating and chemical use overall.
Invest in energy-wise appliances
When replacing appliances, check the Energy Rating Label. A few extra stars might cost more upfront but save hundreds over the life of the appliance. Modern fridges, washing machines and dishwashers often include eco-modes that do the same job with less electricity and water.
Outdoor lighting that costs nothing to run
Solar garden lights soak up energy by day and shine at night without touching your electricity supply. For security, use motion-sensor fittings that turn on only when needed - perfect for driveways, patios and backyards.
Bonus ideas for bigger savings
- Seal gaps and leaks - check doors and windows for draughts and fix them with weather strips.
- Service your air conditioner - an annual check keeps it running efficiently and can prevent costly repairs later.
- Power down properly - standby mode still uses energy. Turn appliances off at the wall when not in use.
