Energy guide
What actually cuts an energy bill
Most savings come from three systems, not from unplugging chargers.
Heating and cooling dominate
In most homes these are the majority of consumption. A thermostat schedule and a serviced system beat every gadget.
Water heating is second
Lowering the tank temperature slightly and insulating the first metres of pipe produces measurable savings.
Shift usage if you are on time-of-use
Running laundry and dishwashers outside peak windows can cut the bill without changing consumption at all.
Measure before you spend
A cheap plug meter for a week tells you more about your own house than any general advice, including this.
Run the numbers
Tools for this topic
Energy & Utilities
Electricity Cost Calculator
What your usage costs monthly and annually, including standing charges and tiers.
Energy & UtilitiesSolar Savings Calculator
Payback period and lifetime saving from a rooftop system after incentives.
Estimates, not advice. Every figure here is produced from the inputs you enter and the formula printed on the page. Rules differ by state, carrier, lender and contract, so use these numbers to prepare for a conversation with a qualified professional rather than to replace one. See our full disclaimer.