Energy costs are a major part of your day-to-day expenses when you move into a home. It makes sense to think about how you can reduce these costs by managing your energy more effectively, while also reducing the impact on the environment. Here are six ideas on how you can make a start:

• Replace at least five of the most commonly used light bulbs in your house with energy efficient light bulbs – this may save you about $150 per year, plus the light bulbs will last longer.
• Use an insulation wrap for your hot water cylinder – this will cost about $50 and may reduce your hot water heating bill by around 20%.
• Turn off your appliances – putting your appliances on standby may not seem a big deal but leaving five appliances on standby may cost up to $200 per year.
• Reduce the thermostat on your hot water to 55 degrees celsius – why pay to heat water then cool it down again to use?
• Invest in heating like heat pumps, vented gas units and radiators – these are just some of the heating options that can keep you warm for a lot less than your standard plug in heaters.
• Install or upgrade insulation in the roof, walls and under the floor to stop heat escaping – it may cost you more upfront but it will pay for itself over the long run.

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