Have you opened your latest electricity bill and nearly dropped your cuppa in shock? You’re not alone.
With energy prices on the rise across Australia, many of us are left scratching our heads, wondering how we could possibly be using so much power—especially if you’re not running the air con 24/7 or leaving every light blazing.
The truth is, some of the biggest culprits behind high energy bills are everyday household items quietly guzzling power in the background.
Let’s take a closer look at the 10 most common energy drains in Aussie homes, plus some practical tips to help you save money—without sacrificing comfort.
1. The fridge: The silent power guzzler
Your refrigerator is one of the few appliances that runs non-stop, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you’re still using an older model, it could be chewing through far more electricity than you realise.
Modern fridges are much more energy efficient—using as little as a quarter of the power of those from the 1970s. That old ‘beer fridge’ in the garage? It could be costing you hundreds a year.
How to save:
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient model (look for the Energy Rating label).
- Clean the condenser coils regularly.
- Set the temperature to the manufacturer’s recommendation (usually 3–5°C for the fridge, -18°C for the freezer).
- Don’t overfill or underfill—both can make your fridge work harder.
2. Heating and cooling: The biggest bill buster
Heating and cooling (HVAC) systems are the single largest contributor to household energy bills, often accounting for more than half your total usage.
In Australia’s variable climate, it’s tempting to flick on the heater or air con at the first sign of discomfort, but every degree can make a big difference.
How to save:
- Delay turning on heating or cooling as long as possible.
- Use ceiling fans to circulate air.
- Invest in a smart thermostat to set schedules and avoid heating/cooling empty rooms.
- Close doors and curtains to keep the heat in (or out).
3. Hot water systems: The hidden drain
Hot water heaters are often out of sight, out of mind—but they’re working hard behind the scenes, typically for 3–5 hours a day. Electric storage hot water systems are especially costly.
How to save:
- Set your water heater thermostat to 50–60°C (or 120°F).
- Wash clothes in cold water.
- Take shorter showers.
- Consider a heat pump or solar hot water system if you’re due for an upgrade.
4. Chargers: The ‘always on’ offenders
Phone, tablet, and laptop chargers may seem insignificant, but they continue to draw power even when not charging a device—a phenomenon known as ‘standby power’ or ‘phantom load’.
How to save:
- Unplug chargers when not in use.
- Use a power board with a switch to turn off multiple devices at once.
5. Outdated lightbulbs: Small change, big savings
Still using old incandescent or halogen bulbs? They’re not just inefficient—they also give off more heat than light, making your cooling system work harder in summer.
How to save:
- Switch to LED bulbs, which use up to 90% less energy.
- Choose warm white LEDs for a cosy, familiar glow.
6. Televisions: Not all screens are equal
TVs can use anywhere from 50 to 300 watts per hour, depending on the type and size. Older plasma and CRT models are the worst offenders, while modern LED and LCD TVs are much more efficient.
How to save
- Turn off the TV when not in use (don’t just leave it on standby).
- Adjust brightness settings.
- Consider upgrading to an energy-efficient model.
7. Computers and laptops: The digital drain
While laptops are relatively efficient (30–70 watts per hour), desktop computers can use up to 250 watts per hour—especially if you’re working from home or streaming TV shows for hours on end.
How to save:
- Enable sleep mode or shut down when not in use.
- Unplug peripherals like printers and speakers when not needed.
8. Washer and dryer: Laundry day surprises
Washing machines and dryers can be surprisingly power-hungry, especially if you’re running small loads or using hot water.
How to save:
- Always wash full loads.
- Use cold water cycles.
- Line dry clothes whenever possible—especially in our sunny Aussie climate.
- Add a dry towel to the dryer to speed up drying time.
9. Ovens: Cooking up costs
Electric ovens use a lot of power—between 2,000 and 5,000 watts per hour. While we’d never suggest giving up home-cooked meals, there are ways to cook smarter.
How to save:
- Use air fryers, slow cookers, or pressure cookers, which use less energy.
- Batch cook meals to make the most of oven time.
- If you have a gas oven, it may be cheaper to run (depending on local gas prices).
10. Vampire devices: The power suckers you forget
‘Vampire’ or ‘phantom’ devices are appliances that draw power even when switched off or in standby mode. Common culprits include microwaves, coffee machines, gaming consoles, and printers.
How to save:
- Unplug devices when not in use.
- Use smart power strips to cut off power automatically.
- Avoid plugging high-powered appliances into power boards due to fire risk.
## Bonus tips for lowering your bill
Even if you’re not ready to replace appliances, you can still make a difference:
Switch off lights when you leave a room.
Insulate your home—thermal curtains and draft stoppers can help.
Use off-peak times for energy-intensive tasks like laundry or running the dishwasher.
Monitor your usage—many energy providers offer apps or online tools to track your consumption.
The bottom line
A few small changes can add up to big savings over time. By being aware of which household items are quietly driving up your electricity bill, you can take control and keep more money in your pocket—without sacrificing the comforts of home.
Have you discovered any surprising energy drains in your home? What tips or tricks have helped you cut your electricity bill? Share your experiences in the comments below—your advice could help others save, too!
Also read: The 10 simple ways to save money: The ultimate guide
