As the cost of living continues to rise, Australians over 60 are feeling the pinch, particularly when it comes to their electricity bills. With energy prices soaring, many are seeking out innovative and sometimes unconventional methods to keep their expenses in check. It's not just about tightening the belt; it's about finding clever ways to reduce consumption without sacrificing comfort.

Recent research from Finder has highlighted that a staggering 53% of Australians have adopted various strategies to cut down their electricity costs. The drive to economize is strong, with 29% of respondents admitting to braving the winter chill without heaters and a quarter foregoing air conditioning during the scorching summer months. These sacrifices are a testament to the lengths some will go to keep their bills manageable.

How can Aussies save on electricity bills? Credit: Fré Sonneveld / Unsplash

Energy expert Mariam Gabaji from Finder points out that Australians are being forced to break old habits and get creative to avoid the dreaded bill shock. The average quarterly electricity bill in Australia is a hefty $410, which adds up to around $1,640 annually. That's a significant amount, especially for those on fixed incomes.

But it's not all about enduring discomfort. There are smarter, less drastic measures that can be taken to save on electricity bills. Living mindfully by turning off appliances and lights when not in use, utilizing natural ventilation and sunlight, and choosing energy-efficient appliances can make a big difference. For instance, ensuring your air conditioning unit is well-maintained means it won't have to work as hard, leading to cost savings over time. Even setting the temperature a few degrees higher in summer and using a fan can help reduce energy use.

Some of the more creative cost-saving measures reported include:

- Monitoring daily energy usage to stay on top of consumption patterns.
- Running household appliances during off-peak times to take advantage of lower rates.
- Visiting shopping centres or going into the office to use their air conditioning or heating instead of running your own.
- Taking cold showers and using a hairdryer instead of a clothes dryer.
- Steaming clothes in the shower and even using the oven to dry clothes.

While these methods may seem extreme, they reflect the innovative spirit of Aussies trying to keep their bills down.

The Australia Institute's chief economist, Greg Jericho, notes that recent electricity rebates have provided some relief, improving household budgets slightly. Government interventions have played a crucial role in combating inflation, with state and federal rebates knocking off an average of 40% from electricity bills across the country. This has not only helped individuals directly but also bolstered confidence in the economy during tough times.

With government subsidies offering a bit of breathing room, now is an excellent time to shop around for more competitive energy plans. The difference between the cheapest and most expensive plans can range from $500 to $700, depending on where you live. It's worth taking the time to compare rates and potentially switch providers to maximize savings.

Key Takeaways

• Australians are finding creative strategies to cut their electricity costs due to rising bills.
• A Finder study shows 53% of Australians are making cutbacks, such as not using heaters or air conditioners, to save on energy bills.
• Energy expert Mariam Gabaji encourages mindful living and proper appliance maintenance as less drastic measures to reduce electricity expenses.
• Government electricity rebates have provided significant financial relief, reducing electricity prices and contributing to lower inflation levels.

At the Seniors Discount Club, we understand the importance of managing expenses without compromising on quality of life. We encourage our members to share their own tips and tricks for reducing electricity bills. Have you found a unique way to save on energy costs? Do you have a story about switching energy providers that saved you money? Share your experiences in the comments below and help your fellow seniors find new ways to keep their bills low and spirits high!

 

[Towing]

Some materials would melt before they even got "airing" dry. In the hot weather keep heavy curtains closed and blinds down. If you stand next to them you can feel the difference in temperature (I didn't believe it until I tried it a few times - including with a thermometer). If you are using airconditioning which can be set to only cool the rooms you are using, shut the doors of the others. What type of insulation to you have in your roof. If it is the one that looks like silver foil after a few years it deteriorates and goes black. Exterior blinds help keep the sun off your windows. If you have canvas ones have them wider than the window as it will stop the sun going in past the sides of them onto the window. It also protects your window frames. As with any exterior blind do not touch the metal, canvas or vinyl (or similar) as you will get burnt. This one you won't believe, we certainly didn't until we tried it. 50 years later I still find it hard to believe. When the cool change arrives and you open your windows. Open your wardrobe, linen cupboard and high cupboard doors. You will feel the heat coming from ceiling level and lower into the room. Overall your house will cool quicker.
In Winter once it starts to get colder in the afternoon - in some areas about 3.00 pm close your heavy curtains and blinds to the direct coldness, especially not being used. Put your hand on the glass and you will realise how cold it is outside compared to the temperature near it. We have learnt so many methods like that. The wardrobe etc. one my Aunties taught my Mum in the 1940s. Admittedly those houses were built about 1910 with very high ceilings. Interior of windows were interior type canvas blinds which after many years perished, some well over 50 years later.

 

[IAN3005]

I do all that, and my bill is $350 a month with gas going on $160 ...$2,049 a qtr.