How to Read Your Electricity Bill and Reduce Appliance Running Costs

Your household appliances account for a significant portion of your electricity bill. Understanding where the costs come from — and how to cut them — can save Sydney families hundreds of dollars a year.

What Uses the Most Electricity?

Here's the typical breakdown for an Australian household:

• Air conditioner / heating: 30–40% of summer bill
• Water heater: 20–25%
• Fridge/freezer: 10–15%
• Washing machine + dryer: 8–12%
• Dishwasher: 3–5%
• TV + entertainment: 5–8%
• Lighting: 5–8%

How to Reduce Fridge Running Costs

• Set fridge to 3–4°C and freezer to -18°C (not colder)
• Keep the fridge reasonably full — it holds temperature better
• Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources
• Clean the condenser coils annually
• Replace a fridge older than 15 years — modern models use 60–70% less electricity

How to Reduce Washing Machine Costs

• Wash in cold water where possible (60% of washing energy goes to heating water)
• Always run full loads
• Use the quick wash for lightly soiled clothes
• Set a delay start for off-peak electricity rates (11 pm–7 am on many plans)

How to Reduce Air Conditioner Costs

• Set your thermostat to 24–26°C for cooling (every degree lower adds 10% to cost)
• Use the timer to turn off the AC an hour before you leave
• Clean filters every 2–3 months
• Use ceiling fans in conjunction with AC to spread cool air further

Upgrade to Save

If your appliances are more than 10 years old, upgrading to modern energy-efficient models can pay for itself within 2–3 years in energy savings. We can help you calculate the return on investment.

Call (02) 9757 4888 or visit our Wetherill Park showroom.