Stay cool and reduce summer energy use

Summer in New Zealand is all about long evenings, BBQs, and spending time outdoors. It's also a time to use energy wisely while staying cool. With a few simple changes, you can stay comfortable and keep your energy use in check. 

Cool your home

Keep your homes cool by:

• Using fans as your first choice. They use much less electricity than air conditioning while keeping you comfortable at the same room temperature.

• EECA recommend setting the thermostat to a minimum of 24ºC during the day, as a lower setting won't make it work faster. Every degree lower can significantly increase electricity use over summer, so a small adjustment can deliver noticeable savings. Avoid using 'auto' mode, as it may switch to heating.

• Running fans and air conditioning in rooms that people are using and switching them off when you leave, so you're not paying to cool empty spaces.

Service your air conditioner

When it comes to energy‑efficient cooling, a well‑maintained air conditioner or heat pump can keep you comfortable while using less electricity. To ensure it runs efficiently, make sure it's serviced regularly so it doesn't have to work harder than necessary.

If you can’t remember the last time you checked it, start with the indoor unit and carefully clean any dust and grime from the air filters. Clogged filters restrict airflow and can increase power consumption. Next, check the outdoor unit (condenser) and clear away any clutter, leaves, or overgrown plants so air can move freely around it. This helps the system cool more efficiently and use less energy.

Block out the heat

Sunlight streaming through windows looks lovely, but it can heat your home quickly. Use curtains, blinds, or thermal drapes to block direct sunlight during peak hours. If you have north-facing windows, consider adding temporary shade such as outdoor umbrellas or shade sails.

Smarter showers and water heating

Hot water is an essential part of household energy use, especially when everyone is showering more often after the beach or sports.

• Aim for shorter showers and consider installing a low-flow showerhead to reduce both water and electricity use for heating.

• Fix dripping taps and leaking toilets as soon as possible, as they waste water and make your hot water cylinder work harder than necessary.

• Use cold water for most laundry loads where possible. Modern detergents are designed to work well in cold water, and this can significantly reduce energy use.

Tidy up appliance and kitchen habits

• Unplug chargers, gaming consoles, and entertainment gear when they’re not in use. Many devices draw small amounts of power on standby, and over a long summer break, that adds up.

• Summer is the perfect time to fire up the BBQ instead of the oven. Cooking indoors adds extra heat to your home, making your cooling system work harder. If you do cook indoors, use smaller appliances like the microwave, air fryer, or slow cooker instead of the oven on hot days. They use less energy and help keep your kitchen cooler.

• When running the dishwasher or washing machine, wait for a full load rather than doing several small ones. This saves both water and electricity and keeps your home running more efficiently over the busy summer months.