Reduce energy at home

Energy-saving tips

Here are some easy ways to reduce your household energy consumption and cut your energy costs:

• Borrow a free Towards Zero Home Energy Kit from your local Stonnington Library to help you understand your home uses energy.
• Set your fridge to 3 to 5°C and your freezer at -15 to -18°C.
• Use curtains or blinds to keep the indoor temperature comfortable. On hot days you'll keep the heat out and can open windows at night to cool down your home. In winter, open the curtains during the day to let the sun warm the room naturally and close the curtains at night to keep the heat in.
• Wash clothes in full loads with cold water and hang them up to dry.
• Use a heater timer. Set the timer for 20 minutes before you wake up or arrive home from work.
• Switch off appliances at the wall when not in use. Standby power can cost households hundreds of dollars each year.
• Set your air conditioner thermostat between 18°C and 20°C. Every degree higher can increase your bill by up to 10 per cent.
• Use your reverse cycle air conditioner as a heater if you have one.
• Switch to energy-saving LED light globes.
• Seal draughts around windows, doors, plumbing, heating units and ducted systems.
• Upgrade to a heat pump or solar hot water system.
• Insulate your roof and walls. Good insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 45 per cent.

For more tips and information, visit Sustainability Victoria.

Towards Zero Home Energy Kits

Visit your local Stonnington Library and take home one of our Towards Zero Home Energy Kits for free.

Each kit includes a:

• thermal imaging camera
• power meter
• thermometer
• user manual.

The kits contain everything you need to:

• understand where you are using power and water in your home
• measure your usage
• identify ways to improve your home's efficiency.

You must be a Stonnington Library member to borrow a kit. 

Reserve a Home Energy Kit

Discounted home energy assessments

Want a house that gives you year-round comfort? Stay cool in summer and warm in winter with a home energy efficiency assessment.

We’re partnering with home energy experts Ephe to offer residents a discount on a home energy assessment with 75% off for concession holders and 50% off for all other residents.

Cost: $88 concession, $176 non concession.

What’s involved?

After booking your assessment with our home energy efficiency partner, Ephe, a professional assessor will come to your home. They review your home's current efficiency and give you a personalised report on steps to achieve the best outcomes.

Assessment items include:

• gaps and draughts
• insulation in your roof cavity, under floor and walls
• heating and cooling systems
• window treatments
• external shading options.

If you have any questions about the program or your eligibility, email our Sustainable Environment team at environment@stonnington.vic.gov.au. 

Book an assessor

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