Clean up to save power

Adelaide Advertiser
Thursday 21/8/2008 Page: 28

POWER bills can be reduced with a little spring cleaning, residents will learn tonight. Adelaide Solar City, a Federal Government initiative involving Salisbury, Tea Tree Gully, Playford and Adelaide councils, will host a free information session at Mawson Lakes. Host Big Switch Projects' Aubrey Thomas said: "Spring is a great reminder for households to clean their appliances and to check they aren't in need of repairs.

Maintaining electrical appliances helps them to operate most efficiently, which means they consume less energy." Ms Thomas said other things which could be done around the home to improve energy efficiency and reduce power bills include:

• Checking seals on fridges and freezers to ensure they fit tightly.
• Ensuring fridges and freezers are set properly so ice build-up is minimised.
• Using the power of the sun to dry clothes.
• Using pots and pans with bases that closely match hot-plate size to ensure heat is not lost.

Ms Thomas said people needing to replace appliances should use energy rating labels to help select efficient brands and models. Tonight's session is at the Mawson Centre.