Applying mindfulness to appliances

Save on bills with these tips

1. Heating and cooling 

Choose an efficient heater for your home – too small and the heater will not warm the room, too large and it will overheat and waste power, say Houzz experts. Select a decent size for the room with the highest energy-rating. To prevent heat from escaping, cover windows and gaps under doors. 

2. Clothes washing 

Washing clothes at a lower temperature uses less energy and is gentler on fibres. If you’re concerned about stubborn stains and dirt, Houzz experts say setting the machine to 30°C is warm enough to lift stains but uses less energy than a hot wash. Filling the machine correctly will help the machine run more efficiently as well. 

3. Refrigerators 

New fridges are much more energy-efficient and cheaper to run than their predecessors. If yours is more than 10 years old, consider an upgrade. Ensuring seals on your older fridge are working properly can save energy and dollars. To check, try the paper test. Place a piece of paper between the door and the fridge, close the door and pull. If the paper slips out easily then it is time to replace your fridge seals.