Check in on your energy spend and avoid bill shock

Winter is coming, and unfortunately along with it higher energy bills. 

The Australian Energy Regulator recently issued its decision on the default market offers that set the baseline for retailers, and from July electricity prices will rise by up to a quarter in some states. 

This means that now is the time to check that you’re not spending more than you need to on heating your home. 

While turning down the heating or forgoing the electric blanket on some nights is bound to save you some money on your household energy bill, the biggest savings could be accessed by switching to a better value plan.

How much could you save? Well, our researchers found that on average, households could save $464 per year for residential electricity and $204 per year for residential gas by comparing providers^.

If you are dreading the impact power hikes might have on your own electricity and gas bills this winter, it makes sense to do a quick price review. Try our Free energy plan comparison service to compare some options available in your postcode and see if you could save by switching.

Review the other top culprits for high power bills

If you really want to get on top of your energy spend this winter, in addition to switching to a better value plan, here are some other energy-guzzling habits you can review:

Overusing your heating

• Dirty aircon filters consume 5-15% more energy than clean ones.

• Heating the whole house. Only heat rooms that are being used.

• Heating rooms to unnecessary temperatures. Experts recommend between 18-20 degrees for winter heating.

• Gaps left unplugged. Use door snakes or replace broken window seals.

Inefficient lighting

• Switch out old halogen globes for LED.

• Not making use of natural light during the day.

• Consider solar lights for garden / outdoor areas

Power draining appliances

• Older appliances can draw on more energy to make them run efficiently so consider replacing them for more energy efficient models.

• Appliances kept in standby mode can account for 3% of your bill - turn appliances off at the wall instead.

• Check energy ratings when purchasing new appliances.

^ Average energy savings were calculated using analysis from the 2022 Mozo Experts Choice Energy Awards data for QLD, NSW, VIC, SA and ACT. Energy price data is extracted from the Energy Made Easy (NSW, QLD, ACT, SA) and Vic Energy Compare (VIC) sites. The difference in cost between the least expensive plan, and the average energy plan price, determined the savings figure