10 Ways to Reduce Your Appliance Running Costs
Appliances account for a significant portion of household electricity bills in Australia. With electricity prices at record highs in 2025, optimising how you use your appliances can make a meaningful difference. Here are 10 practical tips that actually work.
1. Run the Dishwasher and Washing Machine at Night
If you’re on a time-of-use electricity tariff (which most Sydney households with smart meters can access), off-peak electricity is significantly cheaper than peak-time electricity — sometimes 30–50% less. Running energy-intensive appliances (dishwasher, washing machine, dryer) after 10pm takes advantage of off-peak rates. Many modern appliances have a delay-start function to automate this.
2. Use the Eco or Energy-Saving Cycle
The eco cycle on dishwashers and washing machines uses lower temperatures and less water. It takes longer but uses significantly less energy. For a typical load, the eco cycle uses 30–40% less energy than the standard cycle. Use it for everyday loads; reserve the standard cycle for heavily soiled items.
3. Only Run Full Loads
Running a dishwasher or washing machine with a half-load uses almost as much energy and water as a full load. Waiting until you have a full load before running either appliance is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce running costs.
4. Set Your Fridge to the Right Temperature
The recommended fridge temperature is 3–5°C. The freezer should be -18°C. Many households keep their fridge colder than necessary, which increases energy consumption. Check your current setting — dropping from 1°C to 4°C reduces fridge energy consumption by approximately 5–10%.
5. Keep the Fridge Away From Heat Sources
A fridge placed next to an oven, in direct sunlight or in a poorly ventilated space works harder to maintain temperature. Leave at least 50mm of clearance behind the fridge for air circulation. If possible, keep the fridge in a cool, ventilated space.
6. Check Fridge Door Seals
A damaged or worn door seal allows cold air to escape, forcing the compressor to run more. Test your seal by placing a piece of paper in the door and closing it: if the paper pulls out easily, the seal needs replacing. A new seal costs $30–60 and can be fitted without a service call on most models.
7. Use the Microwave Instead of the Oven When Possible
A microwave uses approximately 1,200W. An oven uses 2,000–3,500W and needs preheating time. For reheating leftovers, cooking vegetables or preparing single-serve meals, the microwave is significantly cheaper to run. The oven is worth using for roasting, baking and grilling where the cooking method matters.
8. Turn Off Your Second Fridge or Freezer When Not Needed
Many households have a second fridge or chest freezer in the garage. A second full-size fridge running 24/7 adds approximately $100–$150 per year to your electricity bill. If you only use it at Christmas and during summer, turning it off for the rest of the year (and defrosting it properly first) is a meaningful saving.
9. Choose Appliances With High Energy Star Ratings
When replacing an appliance, the energy star rating is one of the most financially meaningful specifications to check. A fridge with 4 stars uses approximately 30–40% less energy than a 2-star equivalent. The payback period for the premium paid for a higher-rated model is typically 2–4 years for a fridge that runs for a decade.
10. Clean Lint Filters and Check Vents
A dryer with a clogged lint filter works significantly harder and uses more energy per cycle. Clean the lint filter after every load. Check the external vent (if vented) annually to ensure it isn’t blocked. For heat pump dryers, clean both the lint filter and the heat exchanger as instructed in the manual — neglect here significantly reduces efficiency.
Thinking About an Energy-Efficient Upgrade?
Oceania Appliances stocks energy-efficient appliances across all categories. Free delivery across Sydney. Visit 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park, call or WhatsApp 0422 489 492, or email support@oceaniaappliances.com.au. Open 7 days, 10am–8pm.