Reducing your water and energy bills

The kitchen can use a lot of energy. By cutting down energy use, choosing smart appliances and saving water, you can reduce your environmental impact. Some ways to do this in the kitchen are:

• Thaw frozen foods on the bottom shelf of the fridge so they take less time to cook
• Boil water in the kettle rather than the stove. Only boil the water you need, don't overfill your kettle
• Use the smallest amount of water needed in pots and use the lid when boiling water on the stove
• Cooking in a microwave is more energy efficient than using an oven
• Rinse fruit and veggies in a container instead of running the tap. You can use the water on your garden afterwards
• Fill the sink to wash your dishes instead of leaving the water running
• Leaking taps cost you money. Report them immediately.

Fridges

When buying a new fridge or kitchen appliance, check the energy rating and buy the most energy efficient one you can afford. New fridges with a high star rating can cost as little as $50 per year to operate compared to $190 per year for older fridges.

• Fridges work best away from sunlight and ovens.
• Check the seals on your fridge to prevent cold air from leaking out.
• Regularly defrost your freezer to help it run more efficiently.
• Set the temperature on your fridge between 3° to 5°C and freezers -15° to -18°C.
• Leave a gap at the back of the fridge to allow air to circulate behind it.
• Don't use a second fridge. If you really need a second fridge, turn it off when you aren't using it.

No Interest Loans Schemes (NILS) are available in some areas to help low-income households make important purchases like fridges. Information on no or low interest loans is available from MoneySmart at www.moneysmart.gov.au/borrowing-and-credit/other-types-of-credit/no-or-low-interest-loans