Spring is the season of renewal and growth, and it's also an opportunity to review and refine our energy usage, which evolves with the change of the seasons. As the days lengthen and our lifestyle adjusts, it's important to be mindful of our energy consumption and take steps to reduce our impact on the environment. Here are seven tips for enjoying a more sustainable spring:
1. Switch to LED light bulbs
LED light bulbs use less energy and generate less heat than halogen bulbs (which cost over 3x as much to run). By opting for LEDs when your old light bulbs wear out, you can save money on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint, not to mention reduce the excess heat that comes with using these old-fashioned bulbs. Longer days also mean more natural light - no need to turn those lights on so early!
2. Mind your refrigerator
Spring is a good time to check over your fridge. Make sure the coils are clean and free from dust, as clean coils can help reduce energy usage, and double check the seals. You should also avoid leaving the fridge door open for too long, as this can cause it to work harder and use more energy. Finally, try to keep your fridge stocked without overloading it – a well-stocked fridge can help keep things cool without having to work as hard. Temperatures should be set to -4°C for the fridge and -18°C for your freezer.
3. Spring clean your cooling system
As the weather starts to warm up, it's important to ensure that your ducted, split system, or evaporative cooling system is in good working order. Clean out your air conditioning filters and check that your unit is working properly. You should also dust your fans and make sure they're ready to use when you need them. Finally, if you have a pool, make sure it's clean and set up for the warmer months ahead by cleaning out the filters and baskets and updating the pump timer to work during the daylight hours.
4. Use natural ventilation
Instead of using air conditioning as a default, try opening windows and doors to let fresh air circulate through your home. Opening doors and windows at opposite ends of the house allows for cross-ventilation and means you can let nature do the hard work cooling your home. This can help reduce your energy usage and improve indoor air quality.
5. Reduce water usage
Spring is a great time to start conserving water by fixing leaks, taking shorter showers, and using a broom instead of a hose to clean outdoor areas. Wash clothes on a cold cycle and use those gorgeous sun rays to dry your clothes, rather than a clothes dryer.
6. Buy local produce
Buying locally grown produce not only supports your local economy, but it also reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food long distances. You should also buy for the season. Spring has a huge variety of seasonal produce including avocados, bananas, blueberries, broccoli, lettuce and spinach. So always consider local providers and seasonal produce when you're meal planning for spring!
7. Install a solar + battery solution
With longer days and more sunshine, spring is the perfect time to install a solar + battery solution. By generating your own energy and storing any excess, you can reduce your reliance on the grid and save money on your electricity bills. Plus, any excess solar energy you generate that you're not using or storing can be exported to the grid, earning you money through feed-in tariffs. Many of our members tell us during spring their solar power can last through the night because they're not heating and cooling - they simply store their generated solar energy in their battery during the day and use it during the evening.
By following these seven tips, you can enjoy a sustainable spring while reducing your impact on the environment. Whether it's by spring cleaning your cooling systems, installing a solar + battery solution, or taking other energy-saving measures, every little bit helps reduce your energy bills and positively influence your carbon footprint. Spring is one of the best seasons for solar - there's an abundance of sunshine, yet you don't need to use a lot of energy, so your solar + battery solution can carry you through the day and into the evening!
Plico’s mission is to make solar + battery solutions as affordable as possible for everyone. Our unique offering includes solar + battery, 10 years of ongoing support and no big upfront cost - all from just one low weekly fee. If you’d like to learn more about finding the system that is right for you, talk to one of our switched-on team by calling 1300 175 426.
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