Tired of paying unbelievably high gas bills? You’ve come to the right place. Here are six simple tips you can follow to lower your gas bill and save on monthly expenses:
Do an Energy Audit
The first step toward lowering your gas bill is performing an energy audit. The best part? You can do this yourself. Simply go around each room and inspect any areas where there could be possible leaks to the outside.
You might come across leaks in windows, doors, air vents, electrical outlets, pipes, and even plumbing. An energy audit will help you come up with a game plan. Depending on your home’s condition, you might need to seal leaks, improve ventilation, or switch to energy-efficient filters.
Block Any Air Leaks
Cold air seeping out of your home can increase your gas bill by 10-25 percent. So, block any air leaks before moving forward.
Apply caulk to cracks and gaps between window and door frames. You can also use foam to seal openings where pipes, electrical wires, or ducts enter and exit your home. Install foam gasket behind electrical outlets and light switch plates. Lastly, attach door sweeps to the bottom of exterior doors.
Optimise Thermostat Usage
One of the best ways to lower your gas bill is to optimise thermostat usage. First off, set your thermostat to the lowest possible temperature – each degree can save you energy and money.
Instead of heating the entire house at all times, heat specific rooms to lower usage.
Smart thermostats are also beneficial. They’re connected to Wi-Fi and can be operated from your phone, laptop, or tablet. A smart thermostat automatically adjusts the temperature when you’re asleep or away. You can also create a personalised heating and cooling schedule to suit your needs.
Switch to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Every appliance in your home adds to your gas bill. Unfortunately, older appliances consume more gas.
Upgrade to furnaces, water heaters, and stoves that come with an Energy Star label. For instance, instead of a traditional water heater, you can invest in an instantaneous water heater system. It’ll consume less gas and ensure more comfort.
Think About Your Water Heater Usage
We get it – Australian winters are harsh, and a water heater is a necessity. The best thing you can do is make some lifestyle changes to reduce its usage.
Take shorter showers and install low-flow showerheads. Lower the temperature setting to an efficient level. You can also wrap your water heater with an insulated cover to reduce heat loss.
Compare Retailers
Without naming names, some gas retailers charge extra. And because homeowners aren’t aware of fluctuation charges, usage figures, and bill layouts, they end up paying more.
Get quotes from different gas retailers and compare the following:
- Daily supply charge
- Usage charge per MJ or m³
- Contract terms (fixed vs variable rates)
- Discounts and conditions
Review your energy plan at least every 12 months.
You can also use price comparison websites to assess different taxes. You might be surprised to see how much you can save.